Lexus Lbx
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a premium compact SUV that delivers luxury without the size? The Lexus LBX could be exactly what you need. This sophisticated small SUV brings genuine Japanese luxury to the urban-friendly segment, offering hybrid efficiency and premium craftsmanship in a surprisingly compact package. It’s designed for drivers who want the prestige and quality of Lexus without needing a large vehicle for city driving.

At first glance, the LBX makes a bold statement with its distinctive spindle grille and sharp, angular styling. This design language sets it apart from rivals like the Mini Aceman or Volvo EX30, giving it a more premium presence on the road. The attention to detail is immediately apparent, from the LED lighting signature to the carefully sculpted bodywork that manages to look both modern and unmistakably Lexus.

Step inside and you’ll discover where the LBX truly excels. The cabin quality rivals much larger and more expensive vehicles, with soft touch materials, precise build quality, and thoughtful ergonomics throughout. The hybrid powertrain delivers impressive fuel economy while providing smooth, refined performance that makes every journey feel effortless. While it commands a premium over mainstream alternatives, you’re investing in proven Lexus reliability, exceptional build quality, and a driving experience that transforms daily commuting into something more special.

What's the Lexus LBX Like to Drive?

The Lexus LBX centres around a single but highly refined powertrain option. The 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine paired with an electric motor produces a combined 136 horsepower, delivering acceleration from 0-62mph in 9.2 seconds. This might not sound rapid on paper, but the instant torque from the electric motor provides responsive acceleration in real world driving situations, making overtaking and city driving feel effortless and confident.

Where the LBX truly impresses is in its refined driving character. The steering is light and precise at parking speeds, making tight urban manoeuvres simple, while gaining weight and feedback at higher speeds for confident motorway cruising. The suspension strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control, soaking up potholes and speed bumps while remaining composed through corners. The compact SUV feels planted and secure in all conditions, with the hybrid system providing seamless transitions between petrol and electric power that you barely notice.

Inside the Lexus LBX: Comfort & Features

Open the door and you’re immediately struck by the premium ambience inside the LBX. The dashboard design is clean and modern, featuring high quality soft touch plastics and carefully considered details that you’d typically find in much more expensive vehicles. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen dominates the centre console, running Lexus’s latest system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration that connects seamlessly with your smartphone.

The front seats are supportive and comfortable, offering excellent adjustment ranges to accommodate drivers of different sizes. The cabin is remarkably quiet, with excellent sound insulation that keeps road and wind noise to a minimum, enhancing that premium feeling. Rear passenger space is adequate for adults on shorter journeys, though taller passengers might find legroom a bit tight on longer trips. Climate control is standard across the range, along with heated seats and a heated steering wheel on higher trim levels that add to the luxurious feel.

The Lexus LBX successfully delivers premium luxury in a compact, efficient package that’s perfectly suited to modern urban driving. The hybrid powertrain provides excellent fuel economy without compromising on refinement, while the interior quality easily matches vehicles costing significantly more. The build quality and attention to detail are exemplary, reflecting Lexus’s reputation for reliability and craftsmanship. The trade-offs are relatively minor but worth considering. Rear seat space is limited for taller adults, and acceleration, while adequate, won’t satisfy those seeking sporty performance. However, these compromises are easily justified by the LBX’s strengths in efficiency, luxury, and everyday usability. If you’re looking for a premium compact SUV that doesn’t compromise on quality, the LBX represents excellent value in its segment and should be at the top of your consideration list.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Lexus LBX?

The LBX excels in the running costs department, largely thanks to its efficient hybrid powertrain. Real world fuel economy regularly exceeds 55mpg, with careful driving easily achieving over 60mpg in mixed conditions. This translates to significantly lower fuel bills compared to conventional petrol engines, making the LBX an economical choice for high mileage drivers. Insurance groups are reasonable for a premium vehicle, typically falling in the moderate ranges.

The initial purchase price reflects the LBX’s premium positioning, starting from around £30,000 for the entry Urban trim. While this represents a significant premium over mainstream alternatives, you’re paying for exceptional build quality, proven hybrid reliability, and the prestige of Lexus ownership. Servicing costs are competitive within the premium sector, and Lexus’s excellent reliability record means fewer unexpected repair bills. Car finance options are widely available, making the LBX accessible with manageable monthly payments that suit different budgets.

Is the Lexus LBX Practical for Everyday Use?

For a compact SUV, the LBX offers reasonable practicality. The 332-litre boot provides adequate space for weekly shopping or a couple of large suitcases, making it suitable for small families or couples. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo capacity when you need to carry larger items like furniture or sports equipment. Storage throughout the cabin is well thought out, with useful cubby holes and door bins for everyday items.

Where the LBX shows its limitations is in rear seat space. While fine for children or shorter adults, taller passengers may find legroom restrictive on longer journeys. The compact dimensions that make it perfect for city driving and parking also mean it’s not the most spacious choice for growing families. However, for couples or small families prioritising quality over maximum space, the LBX strikes an excellent balance. Its size advantage becomes clear in urban environments where larger SUVs feel cumbersome, and it’s significantly easier to park than bigger used Lexus cars.

The Lexus LBX stands out as a genuinely premium compact SUV that doesn’t ask you to compromise on quality or refinement. It successfully packages Lexus’s renowned attention to detail, hybrid efficiency, and luxury craftsmanship into an urban-friendly size that’s practical for everyday life. The impressive fuel economy and smooth hybrid powertrain make it an intelligent choice for those covering higher annual mileages.

You choose the LBX when you want something special without the bulk of a larger SUV. Its refined ride, premium interior, and efficient hybrid system make every journey more enjoyable, whether you’re navigating city traffic or covering longer distances. For drivers seeking a compact SUV that feels genuinely luxurious, the LBX delivers on its promises and represents the perfect entry point to Lexus ownership.