Lexus launches LBX crossover
A dynamic introduction to the Lexus experience
Lexus Philippines has finally taken the wraps off its latest model, the LBX. The new LBX stands for ‘Lexus Breakthrough X (cross)over’ and it is now the gateway vehicle to the Lexus lifestyle.
The LBX is based on the Toyota Yaris Cross hybrid. As such, it is meant to appeal to younger drivers looking for a more versatile vehicle, yet crave a touch of luxury with a casual feel.
It sports a pair of unique LED daytime running lights flanking a redesigned version of the signature Spindle Grille, this time called the “Unified Spindle.” Its body bears muscular haunches housing the large 18 inch wheels. Behind are LED taillights with an integrated light bar that runs the entire width of the tailgate.
Inside, the LBX offers a minimalist interior designed to keep everything the driver needs within view while maximizing the field of vision through the windscreen. The main controls and information sources are within reach of small hand movements, carefully arranged by use, such as multimedia display, shift lever, instrument meters and steering wheel controls.
The driver gets a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that can be configured to display various information. Ahead is also a heads-up display to keep the driver focused on the road. For in-car entertainment there's a 9.8-inch tablet-style touchscreen infotainment system that runs on the latest Lexus Link Connect System, paired with a 6-speaker sound system. It comes with an intelligent voice recognition system that can be activated by saying “Hey, Lexus”. In addition, the system supports wireless Apple Carplay & Android Auto connectivity. There’s also a host of USB charging ports and a wireless charging pad.
Passengers get leather upholstery as standard, automatic climate control, along with a 50-color LED ambient lighting system to further customize the interior mood. The rear seats have a 60:40 split-folding feature to further maximize storage if needed. There’s also a power tailgate for easy access to the rear cargo area.
Powering the LBX is a 1.5-liter threecylinder engine that’s
assisted by an electric motor. Electrified power comes from a nickel-metal hydride battery pack. Together, the two powerplants can produce a total system output of 136-PS and 185-Nm of torque. Power is then sent to the front wheels via an ECVT. Drivers can expect the hybrid to return a fuel efficiency rating reaching up to 22.72 km/l.
Like all Lexus vehicles today, the LBX also comes with a full suite of intelligent driver aids that are part of the Lexus Safety System+. This includes systems like adaptive cruise control, adaptive high-beams, a pre-collision system, lane-tracing assist with lane-keep assist, a driver monitoring system, front & rearcross traffic alert, a 360-degree panoramic camera system, and a blind-spot monitoring system.
The 2024 LBX is offered in a single variant at ₱2.968 million. Rather than variants, Lexus instead offers it in alluring style packages, all of which include a black exterior finish on the roof. These colors are Astro Gray Metallic, Deep Azure Mica Metallic, Passionate Yellow, Red Spinel, Silver Metallic, Sonic Chrome, Sonic Copper, and Sonic Quartz. The all-new LBX is now available at all Lexus authorized dealers.