MOTORS: Lexus ventures into new territory with sights set on younger buyers
The name Lexus has long been associated with large luxury cars in its role as the upmarket arm of Toyota.
But now it has ventured into the compact market and in common with the rest of the Lexus range, it doesn’t have a name but instead the three initials of LBX, which stands for Lexus Breakthrough Crossover.
It’s new territory for the brand in the UK and Europe, aiming at younger, style-conscious buyers with a “premium casual” theme rather than the traditional image.
The 1.5 litre self-charging hybrid is set to be a game changer and future core model in the range, focussing on the preferences, tastes and trends of European buyers with more than 6000 sales in the UK.
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It’s the smallest Lexus yet, designed to combine high quality with a casual feel but offering more than might be expected from a car in its class with advanced technologies and the established Lexus standard of luxury craftsmanship.
They want to attract customers who may not have considered a Lexus before, perhaps being put off by the historic “old man’s car” image of the past.
They think some existing “empty-nester” Lexus owners might downsize or consider the LBX as a second car as their lifestyle changes.
It’s based on the same platform as the range of small Toyotas like the Aygo and Yaris but the wheelbase is longer, the track wider and the body rigidity increased.
I got to experience it on some deliciously smooth orange grove-lined roads around Valencia on the Spanish Costa Blanca and it was a delight. Along with tuning to the suspension, braking, steering and a lower centre of gravity, the LBX may be part of the Toyota family, but it has its own characteristics with a nimble response on the road.
The new powertrain, a self-charging three-cylinder 1.5-litre hybrid electric system, is efficient and capable and the transition between electric and petrol power is seamless with only a hint of increased volume from under the bonnet when the engine kicks in.
It looks good with distinctive L features around the rear and front LED headlights while the leading edge of the bonnet drops down to the new shape of grille. The wings are flared over the 18-inch wheels while the rear is stubby with the number plate lowered to make the LEXUS name across the boot lid more prominent.
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There’s a range of new paint colours not normally associated with Lexus and the different grades with what are called “atmosphere influences” are designed to let owners express their individual tastes.
They are Urban, Premium, Premium Plus and Takumi and a high-specification version Original Edition. On-the-road prices start at £29,995.
The cabin is simple but refined with good visibility all round and an uncluttered smooth instrument panel with a low-set touchscreen at the head of the central console. Space in the front is excellent but with the seats in anything other than far forward, there’s not a lot of leg room for passengers in the back.
The LBX comes with the e-Latch electronic door release system where you only have to touch the handle either inside or out to open the door. It cleverly won’t open if the Safe Exit Assist system detects vehicles or cyclists approaching from the rear.
There’s also the option of a digital key which works with both Apple and Android phones to allow up to five people to use an app to unlock and start the vehicle. Some people may not be too happy about security and only one year’s digital key subscription is included in the car’s purchase price.
Rear boot space is big enough for two large suitcases and an adjustable powered door is available as an option.
The LBX is a new departure for Lexus but with few competitors offering its quality, hybrid efficiency and reputation for reliability it should be attractive to discerning buyers.
Using just three letters, Lexus are aiming to make a revived name for themselves.
Lexus LBX Premium Plus Design
PRICE: £35,595
ENGINE: 1.5 litre 3-cyl hybrid electric front-wheel-drive e-CVT
POWER: 134 bhp
TORQUE: 185 Nm
0-62 mph: 9.2 secs
ECONOMY: 62 mpg
CO2: 107g/km
