The Lexus LBX has captured our automotive affections and clinched the title of Car of the Year for 2024, but what makes this vehicle not just another luxury car, but a standout leader on the road? In our comprehensive review, we delve deep into the craftsmanship, innovation, and driving pleasure that have solidified the LBX’s position at the pinnacle of our yearly ranking.
Whether you’re a connoisseur of refined driving experiences, a long-standing follower of the Lexus heritage, or simply in pursuit of vehicular excellence, join us as we explore why the Lexus LBX deserves a pedestal in the 2024 car arena.
Table of Contents
Design and Performance: An Artistic Symphony
Exterior Flair
The first encounter with the Lexus LBX is a visual treat—a tapestry of sleek contours and bold stance, crowned with the distinctive spindle grille that announces its Lexus lineage. The car’s exterior couples aggressiveness with elegance in such harmony that each glance reveals a new line or curve, a testament to Lexus’ mastery over automotive design.
A Heart of Power
Beneath the sculpted hood, the engine of the LBX is nothing short of an engineering marvel. With specifications that delight both the environmentally conscious and the power-hungry, the LBX delivers performance that is robust yet responsible. Designed for those who demand effortless acceleration coupled with eco-friendly sensibilities, the drive is a balanced dance of power and efficiency.
With Handling Comes Connection
Engage in the driving experience like never before. The LBX boasts handling characteristics that inspire confidence and command on a myriad of road surfaces. It seems to anticipate the driver’s intentions, resulting in a harmonious partnership between machine and human, delivering the joy of driving in its purest form.
Technological Innovations: The Beacon of Progress
Advanced Features at Your Fingertips
Adorned with a suite of technological wonders, the LBX reaffirms Lexus’ vanguard status in automotive innovation. From enlightening the driver with a heads-up display to the symphonic sound quality of its premium audio system, technology enhances every aspect of the LBX journey.
Connectivity Meets Luxury
In our era of hyper-connectivity, the LBX’s infotainment system is a shining example of intuitive interaction. Tailored for the modern driver, it provides a seamless connection to your digital life while on the move, ensuring that you are always engaged, entertained, and informed.
Shielded by Safety
The LBX’s commitment to safety is unwavering, with driver-assistance features that do not just protect but also prevent. Autonomous braking, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping support are merely the tip of the iceberg. It’s equipped to be your vigilant co-pilot, ever-watchful for potential hazards.
Luxury and Comfort: An Opulent Oasis
Stepping Into Sophistication
The cabin of the Lexus LBX speaks volumes of luxury through its meticulous choice of materials and attention to the finest details. It is a space designed to cocoon its occupants in opulent comfort—a retreat from the noise and harshness of the outside world.
Customization at Your Command
Comfort in the LBX is customizable, contoured to the driver’s and passengers’ needs. With adjustable seating, climate zones, and ambiance settings, traveling in the LBX isn’t about the destination; it’s about how exceptional the journey feels.
Silence is Golden
Lexus has not just insulated the LBX; they have crafted a serene bubble. Ride quality is paramount, with noise insulation that shuts out the world and a suspension that smooths the folds of even the most troublesome roads.
Environmental Consciousness: A Green Commitment
Eco-Friendly Powertrains
Addressing green concerns, the Lexus LBX comes with hybrid or electric options that stand at the forefront of environmentally friendly technology. Achieving a delicate balancing act between enthusiastic driving and ecological responsibility, the LBX shines as a beacon of automotive sustainability.
Efficiency Without Compromise
Boasting commendable fuel efficiency and low emissions without a dip in performance, the LBX challenges the conventions of luxury travel in the age of environmental awareness. This is a car that gives you mileage without guilt and performance without penalty.
Sustainability in Action
The LBX’s birth in Lexus’ factories is grounded in sustainability initiatives that start long before you turn the key. Reinforcing Lexus’ commitment to the planet, these extensive efforts in sustainable manufacturing set the LBX apart as a true vehicle of the future.
The Standout Amongst Rivals
Leading the Luxury Pack
When pitted against its competitors in the luxury market, the Lexus LBX stands out. It isn’t just the sum of its parts, but the way these elements blend to create an automobile that feels more like an experience than simply a machine.
The Unmatched Lexus LBX
What defines the LBX among its peers isn’t a checklist of amenities; it’s the soul of the car. This Lexus doesn’t just compete; it sets the bar, offering driving dynamics, luxury, and an overall aura that is difficult for rivals to mimic.
Safety Above All: A Luxurious Shield
The Lexus LBX manifests an unparalleled commitment to safety, featuring advanced systems that aim to protect its occupants. The LBX offers adaptive cruise control that adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe distance from cars ahead. The Lane Departure Alert system issues a warning if you drift out of your lane, and the Lane Keep Assist gently steers you back. Furthermore, the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection reduces the likelihood of frontal collisions by alerting the driver to potential risks and even applying the brakes automatically if required. The LBX also features a blind spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert to help detect vehicles in blind spots and alert the driver to approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking spot. In the event of a collision, the 10-airbag system provides an added layer of protection. All these features work in harmony, enhancing the LBX’s safety quotient and ensuring peace of mind on every journey.
Cutting-Edge Technology: The Highlight of Lexus LBX
Embarking on a journey in the Lexus LBX is an embrace of technology at its finest. The LBX goes beyond basic functionality, embedding technology in every aspect of the driving experience. The head-up display projects vital information onto the windscreen, keeping drivers informed without distracting them from the road. The Premium Audio System delivers crystal-clear sound quality that transforms your journey into a symphony. The LBX’s Infotainment System is a marvel in itself, intuitively linking you to your digital life and ensuring access to entertainment and information at all times. The LBX’s driver-assistance features range from autonomous braking to pedestrian detection and lane-keeping support, each acting as an extra set of eyes on the road, heightening safety, and enhancing driver confidence. Technology in the LBX is not just about adding features; it’s about seamlessly integrating them into the driving experience to enhance comfort, safety, and enjoyment.
Interior Features: A Symphony of Luxury and Innovation
The Lexus LBX boasts a harmonious blend of luxury and state-of-the-art technology in its interior design. The leather-trimmed seats ensure a plush and comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers, while the 10-way power-adjustable front seats provide personalized comfort with memory settings to accommodate different drivers.
The Dual-Zone Climate Control system allows for individual temperature preferences, maintaining optimal comfort throughout your journey. For those colder days, the LBX features heated and ventilated front seats for added warmth and comfort.
In terms of technology, the LBX excels with features such as the SmartAccess key fob that offers keyless entry and start, proving that convenience is literally at your fingertips. The Navigation System with 12.3-inch Display provides high-resolution imagery, up-to-date traffic and weather, and 3D city views, ensuring you never lose your way.
The Wireless Charger eliminates the need for cables and wires, providing an easy and efficient way of keeping your devices charged during your journey. And finally, the Power Rear Door with Kick Sensor allows hands-free access to the cargo area, making loading and unloading a breeze. Together, these features craft an ambiance of both luxury and convenience, exemplifying the LBX’s commitment to providing an unmatched driving experience.
Exterior Design: Elegance in Motion
The Lexus LBX showcases a masterclass in exterior design, blending functionality and fashion to create a truly stunning aesthetic. The 20-inch Alloy Wheels assert the car’s athletic prowess and luxury stature, while the Power Folding Mirrors offer convenience with their automatic folding and unfolding feature during locking and unlocking. The LBX’s Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers automatically adjust their speed and frequency based on the intensity of the rain, improving visibility during adverse weather. The panoramic glass roof affords passengers a unique view of the sky, imbuing the ride with a sense of openness and freedom. The LBX also features illuminated door handles that light up as you approach the car with the Smart Access key, adding a touch of sophistication while also providing practical visibility in low-light conditions. In the rear, the Power Rear Door with Kick Sensor not only exemplifies convenience but also adds to the overall sleek design. These exterior features culminate in a car that exudes elegance, sophistication, and remarkable attention to detail.
Fuel Efficiency: Uncompromised Performance with Sustainability
The Lexus LBX is a testament to the fact that luxury and sustainability can coexist. While delivering a powerful performance, the LBX does not compromise on fuel efficiency, making it a responsible choice for the environment and a cost-effective solution for the user. The vehicle’s superior fuel management system optimizes engine performance to deliver the highest mileage, reducing frequent visits to the fuel station. Moreover, the Eco Drive Mode further enhances fuel efficiency by adjusting the throttle response and climate control settings. It’s not just about driving a luxurious car; it’s about experiencing luxury that respects and protects our planet. With the LBX, Lexus continues to make strides in achieving a blend of performance, comfort, and sustainability.
Safety Features: Prioritizing Protection and Peace of Mind
The Lexus LBX is equipped with an extensive array of safety features, placing a paramount emphasis on protecting its occupants. Leading the charge is the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, a feature designed to detect a preceding vehicle or a pedestrian and can help mitigate or avoid the impact of a potential collision. The LBX also employs an advanced Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist system, which alerts the driver when the vehicle is detected drifting out of its lane and even takes corrective action if necessary. For those challenging parking situations, the LBX offers a backup camera with dynamic gridlines, offering a clear view of what’s behind the vehicle. Further enhancing the safety quotient is the Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert system, which notifies the driver of vehicles approaching in the adjacent lane and of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking spot. The LBX’s 10-airbag system offers a comprehensive safety network that provides an added layer of protection, delivering peace of mind with every journey you embark on in a Lexus LBX. These safety features are a testament to the LBX’s commitment to creating a secure and confident driving experience.
Lexus LBX prices
| Trim | Price | Image |
|---|---|---|
| Urban | £29,995 | www.carwow.co.uk Lexus LBX Urban trim |
| Premium | £33,495 | www.autocar.co.uk Lexus LBX Premium trim |
| Premium Plus | £35,495 | www.carwow.co.uk Lexus LBX Premium Plus trim |
| Premium Plus Design | £37,095 | www.vanarama.com Lexus LBX Premium Plus Design trim |
| Takumi | £39,595 | www.lexus.co.uk Lexus LBX Takumi trim |
As you can see, the LBX starts at a very competitive price of £29,995 for the Urban trim. Even the top-of-the-range Takumi trim comes in at under £40,000. This makes the LBX a very attractive option for buyers looking for a premium compact SUV that doesn’t break the bank.
Is the Lexus LBX the small hybrid SUV you’ve been waiting for?
The Lexus LBX arrives on the scene, aiming to shake up the small SUV segment with its blend of premium features, hybrid efficiency, and sharp design. But can it truly compete with established rivals like the Audi Q2 and Range Rover Evoque? Buckle up as we delve into the LBX’s performance, interior, practicality, and ownership costs to help you decide.
Performance & Drive: Zippy Hybrid Punch with Composed Handling
While sharing its core hybrid system with the Toyota Yaris Cross, the LBX feels like a distinct upgrade. It boasts more power, translating to sprightlier acceleration, especially in the front-wheel-drive variant. Opting for all-wheel drive brings added traction but slightly sacrifices acceleration and fuel economy.
The LBX impresses with its composed handling, offering balanced steering and a surefooted grip on twistier roads. However, compared to some sportier rivals like the Ford Puma, it might not deliver the same grin-inducing experience. At higher speeds, wind and tire noise become more noticeable, especially compared to quieter competitors like the VW T-Roc and Range Rover Evoque.
Practicality and Ownership: Feature-Packed with Competitive Costs
The LBX starts at a competitive price point, comparable to the gasoline-powered Audi Q2. Even top-of-the-line versions undercut the entry-level Range Rover Evoque. Standard features are generous, even in the base trim, including LED headlights, automatic climate control, and parking sensors. Higher trims add luxuries like a wireless phone charger, a head-up display, and a 13-speaker Mark Levinson sound system.
Fuel economy shines, with the front-wheel-drive LBX achieving an impressive 62.7mpg, significantly outperforming competitors like the Audi Q2 35 TFSI and VW T-Roc 1.5 TSI. All versions come equipped with a suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and road sign recognition.
In Conclusion: The Lexus LBX Summed Up
From the moment it graces your driveway to the countless road trips and commutes it will enhance, the Lexus LBX stands out as a testament to Lexus’ perpetual quest for perfection. Our 2024 Car of the Year selection is far from arbitrary; it’s based on the LBX’s ability to deliver luxury, performance, innovation, and environmental sensitivity without compromise.
The price range of the Lexus LBX reflects the considerable value it offers, striking a balance between accessible luxury and uncompromising quality, making it all the more deserving of the accolade.
The Lexus LBX transcends mere ownership; becoming a Car of the Year implies embracing a signature lifestyle—one where quality, comfort, and innovation are not just desired, they are required. Luxury and performance have found their match in the LBX, and we invite you to understand why it has earned this prestigious honor. Your journey to excellence begins with the Lexus LBX, your 2024 Car of the Year.
FAQs: Addressing Your Lexus LBX Queries
Does the LBX come with all-wheel drive? Yes, all-wheel drive is available on the top-spec Takumi and Takumi Design trims.
Is the LBX a plug-in hybrid? No, the LBX is a regular hybrid, meaning it doesn’t require plugging in to charge its batteries.
What is the car of the year for Lexus 2024?This year, the sought after title of Vehicle of the Year went to the Lexus LBX. The Lexus LBX contends in the exceptionally famous little SUV market and stands apart as the main vehicle of its sort to consistently mix cross breed productivity with large vehicle extravagance.
What does LBX stand for? LBX stands for Lexus Breakthrough Crossover, reflecting the brand’s innovative approach to the small SUV segment.
How does the LBX compare to other premium small SUVs? The LBX offers a compelling blend of luxury, efficiency, and performance at a competitive price point. However, rivals like the Audi Q2 might offer more space in the back, and the Range Rover Evoque boasts a more prestigious badge.
Should I buy the Lexus LBX? If you’re looking for a premium small SUV that prioritizes comfort, features, and fuel efficiency, the LBX is definitely worth considering. However, if rear passenger space or brand prestige are top priorities, you might want to explore other options.