To boost its European expansion plans, Lexus is treading where BMW and Mercedes cancel out: the class of small city cross-overs. With a length of 4.1 metres, the new Japan-built LBX is beyond competition from the German premium brands, as Audi has announced the withdrawal of the Q2, its closest rival. In fact, this is the smallest car Lexus ever built.

Ambitions are straightforward. When the LBX, an acronym for Lexus Breakthrough Crossover, hits the market beginning next year, the Japanese luxury brand aims to sell 25 000 units a year. Or one-third of Lexus’ annual volume in Europe.

Smaller and bigger than UX

Sitting on the same but strengthened TNG-B architecture the LBX shares more than one trait with the Yaris, and could be considered as an upmarket version of the Yaris Cross. However, its lower, wider and slightly longer stance gives the Lexus a more dynamic bite. Compared to the in-house UX, the newcomer is considerably shorter: more than 30 centimetres, which results in compromised legroom space for the passengers in the back – though not for the trunk, which is actually bigger than in the UX (+65 litres).

The absence of a cypher code in its name points to the availability of a single powertrain only. It’s the fifth generation hybrid module, built around the 1.5-litre petrol, that was also launched in the hatchback version of the Yaris last week. Featuring a new balance shaft, a stronger electric motor, and more compact packaging, it also introduces a new bipolar NiMH battery with higher output and faster response. All in all, it must make for a more refined driving experience.

All-wheel drive

With 136 hp on tap, the Lexus LBX can accelerate in 9.2 seconds from a standstill to 100 km/h. Basically, the crossover is a front-wheel drive, but an all-wheel drive version, equipped with an extra electric motor on the back, will also be on offer.

On the inside, the LBX gets a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a first for the brand. It goes accompanied by a 9.8-inch central display for navigation, multimedia and connected devices, featuring Lexus Link Connect. Still, a novelty for a car within the Toyota group is that Apple Car Play and Android Auto can function wirelessly.

For the private market

In many ways, the new LBX is somewhat of a maverick within the Lexus range. This is further illustrated by the Atmospheres, which replace the usual equipment lines from the brand. Each Atmosphere must conjure up a mood that is translated into different design details and upholstery choices. Emotion and Cool address sportier clients, Elegant and Relax aim at customers who seek refinement and luxury. There’s also something on both sides of these Atmospheres: a nameless base model on the one hand, and a Bespoke Build version, for tailor-made personalisation.

As the LBX currently comes to market as a hybrid only, without a plug nor outlook on a battery-powered version, the car seems to prioritize the privateer customer pool.