Lexus LBX Premium Plus

By Bill McCarthy

The Lexus LBX represents a bold departure for Toyota’s luxury division. Starting at just £29,995, this compact SUV brings premium quality at a reasonable price. During a week of testing, the car offered an engaging drive, a luxurious cabin, decent economy and a sensible price tag

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How good is the LBX?

Yes. The LBX delivers genuine Lexus quality in a smaller, more affordable package. It’s not the prettiest small SUV on sale, but it looks more expensive than it is – which is exactly the point.

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Lexus LBX performance

The 1.5-litre self-charging hybrid is the standout feature of the LBX. It’s smooth, quiet, and surprisingly eager off the line. The hybrid system provides adequate power for town driving and motorway cruising.

On the road, the Lexus LBX delivers:

• Precise steering with good feedback
• Comfortable ride over bumps
• Excellent low-speed agility for city driving
• Refined motorway manners

During testing on Devon’s narrow lanes, the LBX chassis impressed with its composure and handling. It’s not a hot hatch, but it’s genuinely enjoyable to drive.

Decent economy

Real-world fuel economy of 52mpg was achieved during testing, compared to the official 61.4mpg WLTP figure. Most driving was at high motorway speeds, making this result particularly impressive for a petrol-electric hybrid.

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Interior and technology

Cabin quality

The LBX interior follows Lexus’s Tazuna cockpit concept, putting the driver at the centre. Materials are mostly top-notch, with comfortable heated seats and excellent visibility. A few cheaper plastics exist low down, but you’d have to search for them.

Infotainment and connectivity

Lexus Link Connect includes:

• Cloud-based navigation
• Over-the-air updates
• “Hey Lexus” voice control
• Wireless Apple CarPlay
• Wireless Android Auto
• Bluetooth and DAB radio
• Multiple USB-C ports
• Wireless charging pad

The Lexus Link app adds remote locking, vehicle status monitoring, and climate pre-conditioning.

Physical controls

Unlike many modern cars, the LBX retains proper physical controls for climate and key audio functions. A head-up display is available on top trims.

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Lexus LBX practicality

Boot Space:

• 332 litres with rear seats up
• 994 litres with rear seats folded

The load bay is conveniently accessed and practical for weekly shopping or weekend bags, which we took to Devon. The LBX coped well with a trip to the local tip during testing.

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Safety

The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 comes as standard and includes:

• Pre-collision system with pedestrian and cyclist detection
• Dynamic radar cruise control
• Lane departure alert
• Lane tracing assist
• Road sign assist
• Automatic high beam

Available depending on grade:

• Blind spot monitor
• Rear cross traffic alert
• Safe exit assist
• Parking support brake

The Lexus LBX achieved a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

LBX Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Premium interior quality at under £30k
• Excellent fuel economy from hybrid powertrain
• Smooth, quiet ride with impressive refinement
• Comprehensive standard safety equipment
• Five-star Euro NCAP rating
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Cons:

• Some cheap plastics in lower cabin areas
• Not the roomiest small SUV
• Not the fastest in class

Verdict

The Lexus LBX is small for the brand but still exudes quality and desirability. It’s not perfect, but there’s little to criticise. For buyers seeking a premium small SUV under £30,000, the LBX represents excellent value.

Factfile

• Model: Lexus LBX Premium Plus
• Price: £35,695
• Mechanical: 136 PS, 1.5-litre self-charging hybrid petrol and electric motor, driving the front wheels, via an e-CVT automatic transmission
• Max speed: 106 mph
• 0 to 62mph: 9.2 sec
• Combined mpg: 61.4 (WLTP)
• Insurance group: 24e
• CO2 emissions: 102 g/km
• BiK rating: 26%
• Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles

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FAQs

How much is it?

The Lexus LBX starts at £29,995, with the Premium Plus model tested costing £35,695.

What about fuel economy?

Official WLTP combined economy is 61.4mpg. Real-world testing achieved 52mpg at motorway speeds.

Is it a full hybrid?

Yes, the LBX uses a 1.5-litre self-charging hybrid petrol-electric powertrain.

How big is the boot?

Boot space is 332 litres with rear seats up, expanding to 994 litres with seats folded.

Is it safe?

Yes, the LBX achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating with comprehensive standard safety equipment.

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