Lexus has debuted its compact crossover, the LBX, designed for the European market and based on Toyota’s TNGA-B platform. The LBX, termed the ‘Lexus Breakthrough Crossover’, enters the market as the brand’s smallest SUV and will initially launch in Europe.
LBX Challenges Volvo XC40 and Audi Q3
Positioned to rival models like the Volvo XC40 and Audi Q3, the LBX incorporates a 1.5-liter petrol-hybrid powertrain. It caters to the preferences of its target audience, with a 1.5-liter three-cylinder petrol engine coupled with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of up to 136hp to the front wheels. Acceleration prowess comparable to battery-electric cars is achieved through a new bipolar nickel-metal-hydride battery.
Optimized TNGA-B Platform for Superior Performance
Built upon Toyota’s TNGA-B platform, the LBX underwent modifications for a distinct Lexus driving experience. The platform’s wheelbase was extended by 20mm, overhangs were minimized, and the track was widened, resulting in dimensions of 4,190mm in length, 1,825mm in width, and 1,545mm in height, with a 2,580mm-long wheelbase. This compact footprint positions the LBX competitively against models like the Audi Q3 and Volvo XC40.
Driver-Centric Interior with Tech Focus
Inside, the LBX offers a driver-centric environment with a lower seating position. The interior design prioritizes simplicity, incorporating essential physical controls alongside technology. A 9.8-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, along with a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, are standard features.
Sales Projection and Market Entry
The LBX’s arrival marks Lexus’s entry into the compact crossover segment, aiming to seize a significant share of the European market. While launching in the first quarter of 2024, the LBX is poised to contribute significantly to Lexus’s sales volume in Europe. As Lexus’s debut model designed exclusively for the European market, the LBX exemplifies the brand’s commitment to innovation and driving satisfaction.