Review of the Lexus LBX

The Lexus LBX is a crossover SUV that’s the smallest car Lexus offers. With a unique exterior design and a stylish interior, it’s a great choice for family drivers looking to stand out. 

Rivals to the LBX include the Ford Puma, Toyota C-HR, Audi Q2, and Mini Countryman. 

Our Lexus LBX review covers:

• Unique exterior with large front grille 
• Top-quality interior with good technology 
• 402 litres of boot space as standard 
• 1.5-litre petrol engine 
• Seven trim levels 

Pros:

• Superb interior 
• Engine is fuel efficient 
• Plenty of equipment available 

Cons:

• Too many trim levels 
• Only one engine available 
• Rear space is a bit limited 

If you’re after a crossover SUV that’s a change of pace from a lot of its similar-looking rivals, consider the LBX. Currently in its first generation, it has a sleek and sharp exterior with a distinctive front grille and creases in the body. It’s a good balance between elegance and sporty flair. 

A small family shouldn't have too many complaints in terms of practicality for the LBX. There’s plenty of head and legroom for two adults in the front, and lots of storage, such as a big shelf below the centre console. In the rear, space is a little tighter, but a couple of children can easily get comfortable. 

Boot space varies for the LBX depending on what version you opt for. In front-wheel drive form you get 402 litres, while in all-wheel drive it decreases to 317 litres. You can fold the rear seats in a 60/40 configuration to increase boot space and accommodate larger items. 

Inside, the LBX impresses with its premium cabin feel that offers stiff competition to cars such as the Audi Q2 and Mini Countryman. The dashboard is organised in a pretty simple layout, which is always a plus, and there’s nice materials dotted about such as Alcantara upholstery and soft-touch plastics. 

The technology matches the superb cabin of the LBX. Coming as standard is a 9.8-inch infotainment system, but we’d recommend upgrading to Premium Plus to get the bigger 12.3-inch screen which is brilliant. You’ll get smartphone mirroring as standard and can also upgrade to get a head-up display, a 12.3-inch cockpit display, and 13-inch surround sound system. 

Seven trims are available: Urban, Premium, Premium Plus, Premium Plus Design, Takumi, Takumi Design, and Original Edition. 

Urban comes standard with 17-inch wheels, front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, a 9.8-inch touchscreen display, Lexus Safety System+, and keyless entry.   

Premium and Premium Plus add 18-inch glossy alloy wheels, Takumi-polished paintwork, a vegan Tahara interior, heated front seats, and a head-up display (on premium plus). 

Premium Plus Design has 18-inch machines-alloy wheels, bi-tone paintwork, and an interior with red accents and contrast stitching. 

Takumi has a leather interior with distinctive stitching, a 360-degree panoramic view monitor, and a 13-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System. 

Takumi Design has a leather-trimmed ultrasuede interior with Copper details and a heated steering wheel. 

Original Edition has 18-inch matt black alloy wheels, exclusive bi-tone Sonic Copper paintwork, a black interior with black stitching, 

The LBX is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine that's available in front or all-wheel drive. 

It returns a respectable 136hp and goes from 0 to 62mph in just under 10 seconds. Its biggest plus is its fuel economy, returning up to 65mpg, which is superb. 

Pretty much all versions come with front-wheel drive, apart from the Takumi trim is available with all-wheel drive/ 

On the road, the LBX is light on its feet and nimble, making it a good car for commuting to work or an urban family. The steering is accurate, and the suspension does a pretty good job of absorbing potholes and bumps. 

As you increase the speed, it becomes clear that the LBX isn't the sportiest of cars, but what you get is a smooth and controlled drive that balances performance and agility. You'll be able to have a bit of fun on a country lane, especially in the all-wheel drive version, but you can rest assured that you'll be safe. 

Prices for the new Lexus LBX start from £28,929.00 OTR* or to lease from £332.49 per month.

Looking to get behind the wheel of the Lexus LBX? Nationwide Vehicle Contracts is one of the UK's largest car leasing brokers and offers a range of leasing deals to suit your every need.

Leasing may be cheaper than an outright purchase, thanks to a low initial deposit and fixed monthly rentals.

*' On the road' price correct at time of publication and includes one year's road fund license, DVLA first registration fee and number plate fee. Prices are subject to change; always check with your nearest retailer.