The 2025 Lexus LBX represents a breakthrough in the luxury automotive market as Lexus’s newest and smallest crossover SUV.
Introduced in June 2023 in Milan, Italy, this compact luxury vehicle is built on the Toyota TNGA-B platform and designed specifically with European consumers in mind.
The LBX, which stands for “Lexus Breakthrough Crossover,” challenges traditional size expectations while delivering the brand’s signature luxury craftsmanship and omotenashi hospitality.
With its 1.5-liter hybrid powertrain producing 134 hp and achieving a top speed of 170 kmph, the LBX offers both performance and efficiency.
This amazing model targets three key customer groups: existing Lexus owners seeking a second, smaller car; those who admire the Lexus brand but haven’t found their perfect match; and completely new customers who might not have considered Lexus before.
The company has big plans for this little car, targeting 25,000 sales across Europe in 2024, with more than 6,000 expected in the UK alone.
The LBX is poised to become Lexus’s best-selling model in the region, appealing prticularly to younger, style-conscious Europeans and empty nesters looking to downsize without sacrificing luxury.
Design and Exterior
The 2025 Lexus LBX introduces a revolutionary front design called the “Unified Spindle,” marking a significant evolution from the traditional spindle grille.
This new frameless, seamless grille generates flowing lines that contribute to the vehicle’s dynamic stance while improving aerodynamic efficiency.
The front features a narrow slit between the hood and bumper that integrates seamlessly with the headlamps, creating a cohesive spindle shape extending to the low-positioned radiator.
The LED lighting system showcases a distinctive visual signature with daytime running lights and turn indicators integrated into bi-functional units. Notably, the signature L-shaped lights now face outward rather than inward, matching the direction of each indicator light.
The headlights themselves are single-project bi-beam LEDs equipped with an Automatic High-beam System on higher grade models. The LBX’s aerodynamic profile achieves a 0.34 Cd figure through precise details like flush belt moldings, profiled bumper corners, and fin-shaped rockers.
The vehicle stands on impressive 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/55 R18 tires for both front and rear. These Diamond Cut Premium wheels feature a glossy black finish and measure 7J width with a +40mm offset, complementing the flared fenders that express power and contribute to the LBX’s commanding presence.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside the 2025 Lexus LBX and you will immediately notice how this small SUV punches above its weight in luxury.
The cabin wraps you in premium materials that feel expensive to the touch, with soft Alcantara upholstery and synthetic leather creating a truly upscale environment.
Unlike many competitors, the LBX features plush suede covering the front dash, door cards, and central tunnel, complemented by tasteful orange stitching and metallic accents throughout.
The steering wheel comes wrapped in soft leather with heating functionality for cold mornings, while the gear shifter receives similar premium treatment.
Most Urban trim models include fabric seats, but higher grades offer a mix of leather and suede combinations that rival much pricier vehicles.
Despite its compact dimensions of 4.19m length and 1.82m width, the front seats provide generous space for taller occupants.
However, the rear seating area feels noticeably tighter, with limited headroom and legroom for adults over six feet tall.
The boot capacity stands at 402 liters for front-wheel drive models, dropping to 317 liters in all-wheel drive versions.
Higher trims feature sophisticated 64-color LED ambient lighting that creates a warm, customizable atmosphere throughout the cabin.
The Takumi models especially excel with their upmarket lighting that illuminates key areas like door handles, footwells, and the instrument panel, elevating the overall luxury experience.
Performance and Handling
The 2025 Lexus LBX delivers impressive performance through its 1.5-liter three-cylinder hybrid powertrain that produces 100kW of total system output.
Standard models feature a front-wheel drive configuration with 67kW and 120Nm from the engine, complemented by an electric motor generating 69kW and 185Nm.
The all-wheel drive variant adds a small rear electric motor producing 4.7kW and 52Nm, maintainng the same total output while enhancing traction.
For performance enthusiasts, the new Morizo RR model introduces a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine delivering a remarkable 206kW and 390Nm of torque.
Most LBX models utilize an electronic continuously variable trnsmission (e-CVT) for smooth power delivery, while the high-performance Morizo RR features an eight-speed torque-converter automatic.
The suspension system varies by drivetrain: front-wheel drive models employ MacPherson struts up front and a torsion beam rear setup, whereas all-wheel drive variants upgrade to a more sophisticated double-wishbone rear suspension.
This configuration, combined with the Vehicle Braking Posture Control system, minimizes body roll during cornering and reduces pitch under braking.
The LBX offers multiple driving modes that adjust engine mapping and throttle response to suit different conditions.
With a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 9.2 seconds for front-wheel drive models and 9.6 seconds for all-wheel drive versions, the LBX delivers respectable performance while maintaining excellent fuel economy of approximately 3.8L/100km.
The vehicle’s low center of gravity and wide track further enhance its nimble handling characteristics.
Technology and Infotainment
The 2025 Lexus LBX brings a tech-savvy punch to the compact luxury crossover segment. At the heart of its infotainment system is a crisp 9.8-inch touchscreen that’s as responsive as your smartphone.
This high-resolution display is your gateway to a world of connectivity, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. No more fumbling with cables – just hop in and your phone syncs up seamlessly.
Audio enthusiasts will appreciate the standard six-speaker Panasonic sound system, but for those who want to crank it up a notch, an optional 13-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio setup is available.
It’s like having a concert hall on wheels! The “Hey Lexus” voice command system is your personal digital assistant, understanding natural language so you can control various functions without taking your hands off the wheel. Need to adjust the temperature? Just say, “Hey Lexus, I’m cold,” and it’ll warm things up.
Lexus hasn’t forgotten about keeping your devices juiced up either. The LBX comes equipped with five USB-C ports scattered throughout the cabin, ensuring everyone’s gadgets stay charged on long trips.
Plus, a wireless charging pad means you can say goodbye to tangled cords. With over-the-air updates, your LBX’s tech stays fresh, just like your favorite apps.
Safety Features
The 2025 Lexus LBX is like a guardian angel on wheels, packed with cutting-edge safety features that would make even a superhero jealous.
At the heart of its protective arsenal is the latest Lexus Safety System+, which acts as your personal co-pilot, always on the lookout for potential dangers.
This system includes autonomous emergency braking that can detect pedestrians, cyclists, and even motorcycles, day or night. It is so smart that it can even help you navigate tricky intersections safely.
But wait, there is more! The LBX comes equipped with adaptive cruise control that not only maintains a safe distance from the car ahead but also slows down for curves and can even help you change lanes safely.
For those who dread parallel parking, the Advanced Park system is a game-changer. It takes control of the steering, braking, and acceleration to guide you into tight spots efortlessly.
The LBX is not just about fancy gadgets; its very structure is designed with safety in mind. The passenger compartment remained stable in crash tests, offering good protection for occupants.
Plus, the car has an eCall system that automatically alerts emergency services if you are in an accident.
Even in extreme scenarios, like vehicle submersion, Lexus has ensured that doors and windows can be opened, allowing for a quick escape. With the LBX, Lexus has truly raised the bar for compact luxury SUV safety.
Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact
The 2025 Lexus LBX delivers impressive fuel efficiency that makes both your wallet and the planet happy.
With official WLTP combined cycle figures showing up to 62.8 mpg for front-wheel drive models and 58.8 mpg for all-wheel drive versions, this compact luxury crossover sips fuel like a bird.
In metric terms, that translates to just 3.8L/100km with a theoretical driving range of 900-1000 km on a single tank.
The 36-liter fuel tank requires only standard 91 octane unleaded fuel, making fill-ups more affordable than many luxury competitors.
At the heart of this efficiency is the sophisticated self-charging hybrid powertrain featuring a 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine paired with electric motors.
This system delivers a perfect balance of performance and economy through its e-CVT transmission and bi-polar nickel-metal hydride battery.
The battery’s compact design and higher output contribute to both the LBX’s spirited acceleration and excellent fuel consumption.
Environmental consciousness extends beyond just fuel economy. The LBX meets strict Euro 5 emissions standards with impressively low CO2 emissions ranging from 102-108 g/km for front-wheel drive models and 110-113 g/km for all-wheel drive versions.
Lexus demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through the use of eco-friendly materials throughout the vehicle, including vegan-friendly interiors with synthetic leather and kenaf plant fibers in door trims.
This plant absorbs up to five times more CO2 than other plants and replaces traditional woodchips, reducing deforestation impact.
Pricing and Trim Levels
The 2025 Lexus LBX lineup offers luxury at various price points, starting with the entry-level Luxury 2WD model priced at $47,550.
This base trim comes well-equipped with a 9.8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and black NuLuxe leatherette upholstery with red highlights.
You also get heated front seats and an eight-way power driver’s seat with memory function – features typically reserved for higher trims in other brands.
Moving up to the mid-range Sports Luxury 2WD at $52,990 adds significant upgrades including stylish black 18-inch alloy wheels with a 10 twin-spoke design, a color head-up display, and a premium 13-speaker Mark Levinson sound system.
The interior receives a major upgrade with multi-color ambient lighting, a heated steering wheel with paddle shifters, and luxurious combination leather and Ultrasuede upholstery with contrast orange stitching.
The top-tier Sports Luxury AWD model commands $56,990 and adds all-wheel drive capability for enhanced traction.
For performance enthusiasts, the range-topping Morizo RR variant arrives at $76,490 with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine producing an impressive 206kW and 390Nm of torque.
Beyond these standard trims, Lexus offers unprecedented customization through its “Bespoke Build” program.
This allows buyers to select from five design themes and personalize interior colors, seat materials, and embroidery patterns – creating a truly unique vehicle from approximately 330,000 potential combinations.
Comparison with Competitors
The 2025 Lexus LBX stands tall among luxury compact crossovers, offering a unique blend of refinement and efficiency.
When compared to the BMW X1, the LBX sacrifices raw power for superior comfort – while the X1 boasts 215bhp and sprints from 0-60mph in 6.7 seconds, the LBX’s 134bhp hybrid powertrain delivers a more relaxed 10.3-second acceleration.
However, the LBX counters with nimbler handling due to its lighter weight and more naturally weighted steering that flows better on broken roads.
Against the Audi Q3, the LBX presents a compelling value proposition, priced significantly lower at approximately $47,550 versus the Q3’s $64,879 starting price. The LBX also achieves substantially better fuel economy than the Q3’s city rating of 5.4 kmpl.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA offers a larger footprint with its 4412mm length compared to the LBX’s 4190mm, but the Lexus counters with a more distinctive design language and superior cabin materials.
Both vehicles feature comprehensive safety systems, though the GLA includes a 360-degree camera as standard.
The Volvo XC40 brings Scandinavian design sensibilities to the segment with its 1969cc engine producing 178hp, outmuscling the LBX.
However, the Lexus fights back with its hybrid efficiency of 3.8L/100km and impressive 900-1000km driving range.
Both vehicles offer comprehensive safety features, though the XC40 includes the innovative Side Impact Protection System for enhanced structural integrity.
Conclusion
The 2025 Lexus LBX has proven itself as a true amazing in the compact luxury crossover segment. With its 1.5-liter hybrid powertrain delivering 136hp and impressive fuel economy of 3.8L/100km (62.8 mpg), this small SUV packs a mighty punch.
The Unified Spindle design and premium interior with Alcantara upholstery showcase Lexus’s signature luxury in a smaller package.
Since its launch, the LBX has made a massive impact on the market, becoming Lexus’s best-selling model in the UK and contributing to the brand’s global sales increase of 103.3% in 2024.
The model reached its annual sales target in just five months in Europe, attracting many young urban consumers and first-time luxury buyers.
Looking ahead, the future seems bright for the LBX with the recent addition of the high-performance Morizo RR variant featuring a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine producing 206kW.
The model has already retained the prestigious What Car? Small SUV of the Year title for 2025, cementing its position in the segment.
With Lexus targeting 25,000 sales across Europe in 2025, including 6,000 in the UK alone, the LBX is set to continue redefining what a compact luxury crossover can be.
