Compact SUV gets moody
The first-ever LBX has arrived in New Zealand, blending hybrid efficiency with compact agility.
Lexus describes it as the entry point to the brand’s “luxury” in the popular compact crossover segment.
The SUV continues the marque’s electrification programme by only being available with a hybrid powertrain.
Andrew Davis, Lexus NZ’s vice-president, says the LBX is gaining recognition around the world due to the marque’s “uncompromising design and premium build quality, even within such a compact body”, while this SUV is “moving the premium hybrid game on to the next level”.
The arrival of the LBX follows a record sales year for Lexus NZ. It sold 1,309 new vehicles in 2023, 90 per cent of which were electrified.
“We are trying something a bit different with the LBX,” adds Davis. “Traditionally, our range is offered in grades or variants with significant interior and exterior differences between them.
“For the LBX, there will be some slight variations in features. But it is more about the styling treatment and design so we are offering three ‘moods’ not grades, which says how it’s positioned for today’s new Lexus customer.
“The moods – Active, Cool and Relax – are tailored to reflect individuals’ lifestyles and aesthetic.”
Built around a responsive and efficient three-cylinder, 1.5-litre petrol hybrid engine, the LBX is aimed at urban drivers who want an element of “casual chic style”.
The front-wheel-drive (FWD) Active has 18-inch dark grey metallic and machined alloys, a two-tone exterior and the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ package. The interior is defined by silky white ambient lighting and black synthetic leather seats.
Other Active features include a reversing camera with dynamic guidelines, automatic high beam, parking support brake, and a six-speaker sound system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Relax and Cool both feature active noise control combined with engine sound enhancement, automatic parking and a panoramic view monitor.
Both offer multi-colour ambient interior lighting and a 13-speaker Mark Levinson premium sound system. They are available with the choice of FWD or E-Four all-wheel drive.
The range starts with the LBX Active with FWD at $58,900, plus on-road costs. The range-topping LBX Cool AWD is priced from $68,900.
