Lexus launches LBX subcompact crossover

Lexus on Monday revealed its smallest car but, a subcompact crossover designed primarily with Europe’s tight city facilities in thoughts.

It is referred to as the LBX, and Lexus hasn’t stated whether or not will probably be bought within the U.S., although given its diminutive measurement there’s slim likelihood the car will seem in native showrooms. It measures 165 inches lengthy, or 12 inches lower than the UX.

Towards the present development of EV powertrains, the LBX has arrived with hybrid energy completely. There’s just one powertrain at current, a 1.5-liter inline-3 mated to a single electrical motor for a mixed 134 hp. Drive is to the entrance wheels solely however Lexus is considered readying an all-wheel-drive possibility the place a second electrical motor powers the rear axle.

Underpinning the LBX is the TNGA-B platform from dad or mum firm Toyota. The platform additionally underpins the Toyota Yaris Cross, which is an in depth relative to the LBX and restricted to markets exterior the U.S.

With the LBX, Lexus will be capable of goal patrons searching for a small automobile however not prepared to stint on the consolation and options usually reserved for bigger automobiles. Consequently, the LBX options, both customary or obtainable, premium objects like a big infotainment display screen, a head-up show, and a number of digital driver-assist options.

Lexus stated it additionally centered on sound and vibration suppression to ship a quiet and stress-free expertise inside, which is not normally the case for automobiles of this measurement class.

What’s additionally not generally discovered on this class is a excessive stage of personalization. Right here too the LBX is exclusive due to a Bespoke Construct possibility that can let patrons select their inside colours, seat supplies, embroidery patterns, and extra. Lexus stated there might be roughly 330,000 potential mixtures.

2024 Lexus LBX (Europe spec)

2024 Lexus LBX (Europe spec)

Detailed specs might be introduced nearer to the market launch late this 12 months. The primary markets have been confirmed by the automaker as Europe and Japan.

Whereas the U.S. will seemingly miss out on the LBX, Lexus has two new SUVs headed to native showrooms shortly. One is a redesigned 2024 GX and the opposite is a brand new three-row SUV to be referred to as the TX. The GX might be a twin with a redesigned Toyota Land Cruiser Prado bought abroad, whereas the TX might be a twin with the brand new 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander.