TOKYO/MILAN: The Lexus LBX SUV made its world premiere in Milan today.
Presented to the media by chief branding officer Simon Humphries and Lexus president Takashi Watanabe, the smallest Lexus SUV yet will be introduced to Europe, Japan and selected markets worldwide from Q4 2023.
LBX stands for "Lexus Breakthrough X(cross)-over".
The new model, derived from the Toyota Yaris Cross, came about at the behest of Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda who sought to introduce a compact model to sophisticated customers that "redefines the conventional notion of luxury cars and to go beyond the constraints of compact size to deliver a high-quality driving experience and design".
The LBX is based on a specially developed GA-B platform. According to Lexus, the vehicle styling is derived from a "Premium Casual" design philosophy that enhances its presence and refinement.
The exterior showcases dynamic proportions and a confident stance, complemented by Lexus' latest "Unified Spindle" front fascia design.
For the interior, attention was placed on a premium design to ensure the highest quality. The goal, says Lexus, was to craft an inviting and serene space fostering a seamless connection between the driver and car.
LBX customers will be able to customise the car as it will be offered with five bespoke design themes.
"Bespoke Build," a personalised ordering system would allow customers to select interior colours, seat materials, embroidery patterns, and more, enabling them to create their unique vehicle from 330,000 potential combinations.
The LBX measures 4,190mm long, 1,560mm tall and 1,825mm wide.
With a 2,580mm wheelbase, it has an 80mm shorter wheelbase and is 15mm narrower than the UX.
It gets a hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a nickel metal hydride battery pack.
The LBX will be available in front- and all-wheel drive but Lexus has yet to reveal outputs.
The LBX features a new 12.3-inch full LCD display meter, a 9.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Lexus Safety System + and Lexus Teammate advanced driver assistance technology.
