Review Date: June 2025
MSRP Range: £29,995 – £40,555 (UK) / $47,550 – $56,990 (AUD)
Overall Rating: 8.2/10
Key Verdict: The 2025 Lexus LBX successfully challenges the notion that small cars can’t be luxurious, delivering genuine premium quality and refinement in a compact package that redefines what entry-level luxury should mean.

Quick Verdict & Key Stats

The LBX represents Lexus’s boldest move yet, proving that luxury doesn’t require size. While it may not offer the most space or excitement in its class, the LBX delivers a genuinely premium experience with exceptional build quality, innovative hybrid efficiency, and distinctive design that justifies its positioning as a breakthrough in compact luxury.

Key Specifications

Specification	LBX FWD	LBX AWD
Engine	1.5L 3-cyl Hybrid	1.5L 3-cyl Hybrid
System Power	136 hp (100 kW)	136 hp (100 kW)
Torque	185 Nm (electric)	185 Nm (electric) + 52 Nm (rear)
Fuel Economy	62.7 mpg (WLTP)	56.4 mpg (WLTP)
Starting Price	£29,995 (UK)	£40,005 (UK)
Cargo Space	402 litres	402 litres
Seating	5 passengers	5 passengers
0-62 mph	9.2 seconds	9.6 seconds
Drive Type	FWD	E-Four AWD

What’s New This Year

The 2025 LBX marks Lexus’s entry into the compact luxury segment with a completely new model designed specifically for European and Asian markets:

• All-new compact luxury crossover: First three-letter Lexus model name since the LFA supercar
• Dedicated hybrid powertrain: Enhanced version of Toyota’s proven 1.5L full hybrid system with improvements for premium refinement
• Premium materials throughout: Lexus-level interior quality with Alcantara upholstery and soft-touch surfaces
• Advanced technology integration: 9.8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and “Hey Lexus” assistant
• Multiple trim levels: Seven distinct configurations focusing on “Atmosphere” rather than traditional equipment levels
• Optional E-Four AWD: Available on top trim levels with rear electric motor for enhanced traction

The LBX establishes Lexus’s presence in the compact luxury segment while targeting younger demographics.

Exterior Design & Styling

The LBX showcases Lexus’s ability to translate its distinctive design language into a compact package without losing visual impact or brand identity.

Design Highlights:

• Signature Lexus DNA with bold spindle grille interpretation scaled appropriately for compact dimensions
• Muscular, superhero-like proportions that belie its small footprint with dramatic curves and creases
• Advanced LED lighting technology with distinctive daytime running light signatures
• Premium paint options, including sophisticated bi-tone combinations
• Compact yet commanding presence measuring 4,190mm long, 1,825mm wide, and 1,545mm tall

Sophisticated Details:

• Tight 5.2-meter turning radius optimized for urban maneuverability
• Hidden complexity in surface modeling creates visual depth
• Available 17-inch to 18-inch wheel options with premium finishes
• Aerodynamic optimization contributing to hybrid efficiency
• Distinctive character lines differentiate it clearly from the Toyota Yaris Cross

The overall effect creates a car that looks unmistakably premium despite its compact dimensions.

Interior Quality & Comfort

The cabin represents Lexus’s greatest achievement with the LBX, delivering luxury-car materials and ambiance in a space previously reserved for mainstream vehicles.

Premium Appointments:

• Exceptional material quality: Alcantara upholstery, soft-touch dashboard surfaces, and premium leather touches throughout
• Electric door releases with sophisticated tactile feedback, maintaining a premium feel
• Comprehensive sound deadening, including door-damping sheets, creates luxury-car quietness
• Attention to detail rivaling larger Lexus models with precise fit and finish
• Available heated and ventilated seats with power adjustment on higher trim levels

Practical Features:

• Surprisingly spacious front seating with excellent adjustment range
• Adult-usable rear seating despite compact exterior dimensions
• 402-liter cargo capacity is competitive within the compact luxury segment
• Physical climate controls maintain tactile feedback and ease of use
• Wireless charging pad and multiple device storage solutions

Comfort Considerations: The LBX delivers impressive comfort for its size, though rear passenger space remains limited for taller adults. The focus on material quality over maximum space utilization reflects genuine luxury priorities.

Technology & Infotainment

Lexus has significantly improved its technology offering with the LBX, moving away from previous frustrating interfaces to a more intuitive and modern approach.

Display Technology:

• 9.8-inch portrait touchscreen with high-resolution graphics and responsive touch controls
• 12.3-inch digital driver display available on higher trim levels, providing clear information presentation
• Available head-up display projecting essential information directly into the driver’s line of sight
• Premium instrument design maintains Lexus’ aesthetic while incorporating modern functionality

Connectivity Features:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay standard with disappointingly wired-only Android Auto connectivity
• “Hey Lexus,” a voice assistant providing natural language control of vehicle functions
• Lexus Link Connect system offering remote vehicle monitoring and control capabilities
• Over-the-air update capability ensures software remains current

Advanced Features:

• Nanoe X air purification system on Premium Plus and higher trims
• Mark Levinson premium audio system available on top specifications
• Ambient lighting with multiple color options creates a premium atmosphere
• Comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ suite standard across all trim levels

The technology integration feels mature and user-friendly while maintaining Lexus refinement standards.

Performance & Driving Experience

The LBX prioritizes smoothness and efficiency over outright performance, delivering a driving experience optimized for urban refinement and long-distance comfort.

Hybrid Powertrain:

• 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with a balance shaft reducing vibration and enhancing smoothness
• Enhanced electric motor producing 9 hp more than the Toyota Yaris Cross equivalent
• Larger 1kWh nickel-metal hydride battery with bipolar technology optimized for rapid charge/discharge cycles
• e-CVT transmission providing seamless power delivery with improved refinement over Toyota applications

Driving Dynamics:

• Excellent urban maneuverability with light steering and compact dimensions, ideal for city driving
• Impressive electric-only capability operating silently up to 30 mph in stop-start conditions
• Refined ride quality with suspension tuned for comfort over sportiness
• Adequate highway performance, although acceleration becomes labored at higher speeds
• Optional E-Four AWD adds a minimal rear-axle electric motor for enhanced traction

Character Elements:

• Virtually silent operation in electric mode creates a premium ambiance
• Subdued engine noise when the combustion engine operates, thanks to enhanced sound deadening
• Relaxed driving character prioritizing comfort over engagement
• Predictable handling characteristics with minimal body roll despite a soft suspension setup

The overall experience emphasizes luxury refinement over dynamic excitement.

Fuel Economy & Efficiency

The LBX’s hybrid efficiency represents one of its strongest selling points, delivering exceptional economy figures that justify the premium positioning.

Efficiency Performance:

• Front-wheel drive achieves up to 62.7 mpg in official WLTP testing, with real-world figures approaching claims
• All-wheel drive models achieve 56.4 mpg with minimal efficiency penalty for enhanced traction
• Low CO2 emissions of 85g/k, providing favorable tax implications in most markets
• Exceptional urban efficiency thanks to extensive electric-only operation capability

Practical Considerations:

• Premium fuel is recommended but not required for optimal operation
• The hybrid system eliminates range anxiety common with electric vehicles
• No charging infrastructure requirements, making it convenient for urban dwellers
• Stop-start traffic conditions improve efficiency through regenerative braking
• Real-world economy figures typically match or exceed official claims

The efficiency figures position the LBX favorably in comparison to both conventional and electric alternatives.

Safety & Reliability

Lexus’s comprehensive approach to safety combines proven hybrid technology with advanced driver assistance features and the brand’s reputation for long-term dependability.

Safety Equipment:

• Five-star Euro NCAP rating with powerful adult and child occupant protection scores
• Comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including pre-collision system, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control
• Advanced features on higher trims include a 360-degree camera, blind-spot monitoring, and safe exit assist
• Intelligent cruise control with traffic jam assist functionality
• Robust body structure engineered to Lexus safety standards despite compact dimensions

Reliability Considerations:

• Proven Toyota/Lexus hybrid technology with millions of units in service globally
• 10-year/100,000-mile warranty available with dealer servicing commitment
• Strong Lexus dealer network known for exceptional customer service standards
• Minimal maintenance requirements are typical of hybrid powertrains
• Expected strong resale values supporting long-term ownership economics

The LBX benefits from Lexus’s reputation for quality and Toyota’s hybrid system reliability.

Cargo & Practicality

The LBX’s space utilization reflects its prioritization of luxury over maximum utility, though clever packaging maximizes available space within compact dimensions.

Storage Capabilities:

• 402 liters of cargo capacity is competitive within the compact luxury segment
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats, expanding cargo area for larger items when needed
• Thoughtful interior storage with multiple compartments and device-friendly solutions
• Low loading sill facilitating easy cargo access despite compact size
• Well-shaped cargo area maximizing usable space within available dimensions

Interior Storage: • Generous door pockets accommodating large water bottles and personal items • Central console storage with wireless charging pad integration • Glove compartment appropriately sized for modern needs • Multiple cup holders and device storage locations throughout cabin

Practical Limitations:

• Rear passenger space is limited for adults on longer journeys
• Overall cargo capacity is less than larger alternatives in similar price ranges
• Loading aperture smaller than conventional SUVs, affecting large item accommodation
• Premium positioning means practical alternatives offer more space for similar money

The space efficiency suits urban lifestyles and couples, but requires compromises for larger families.

Value & Pricing Analysis

Starting at £29,995 in the UK, the LBX positions itself as accessible luxury while delivering genuine premium content that justifies its positioning above mainstream alternatives.

Value Proposition:

• Comprehensive standard equipment including hybrid power, premium materials, and advanced safety features
• Genuine luxury experience at entry-level pricing for the Lexus brand
• Strong predicted residual values benefiting from Lexus’s premium brand positioning
• Exceptional build quality rivaling vehicles costing significantly more
• Comprehensive warranty coverage provides peace of mind for luxury buyers

Cost Considerations:

• Premium fuel is recommended, though not required, adding modest operating costs
• Hybrid efficiency offsets a higher purchase price through reduced fuel costs
• Lexus dealer service costs are typical of premium brands, but are offset by reliability
• Insurance costs are reasonable for the premium compact segment
• Strong resale values protect the long-term investment

Competitive Analysis:

• Comparable pricing to the Audi Q2 while offering hybrid efficiency and newer technology
• The premium over mainstream alternatives like the Peugeot 2008 is justified by material quality and refinement
• Value proposition strengthened by comprehensive standard equipment levels
• Lease programs are making a luxury experience accessible to a broader audience

The LBX delivers legitimate luxury value at its price point.

Competitors Comparison

Direct Competitors:

• Audi Q2: Similar premium positioning but older design and conventional powertrains only
• Mini Countryman: Comparable character focus, but larger dimensions and higher pricing
• Mercedes-Benz GLA: Significantly more expensive while offering a similar compact luxury experience
• BMW X1: Larger and more powerful, but considerably higher pricing

Alternative Considerations:

• Volvo EX30: Electric-only alternative with similar premium focus but different powertrain philosophy
• Range Rover Evoque: Much larger and more expensive, but an established compact luxury presence
• DS 3 Crossback: French alternative with distinctive design but questionable long-term reliability
• Toyota Yaris Cross: Platform sibling offering similar practicality at a lower price but without luxury content

The LBX occupies a unique position combining compact dimensions with genuine luxury content.

Final Verdict & Recommendations

Pros:

• Exceptional interior quality and premium materials throughout
• Proven hybrid efficiency with impressive real-world economy figures
• Distinctive design successfully scales Lexus DNA to compact dimensions
• Comprehensive safety equipment and strong crash test ratings
• Strong brand reputation and dealer network for a luxury ownership experience
• Innovative approach to compact luxury challenging segment conventions

Cons:

• Limited rear passenger space constrains family utility
• Modest performance figures with engine noise intrusion under acceleration
• Higher pricing than mainstream alternatives with similar space and practicality
• CVT transmission feel may not appeal to driving enthusiasts
• Limited cargo capacity compared to larger alternatives at similar pricing

Best For: Urban professionals prioritizing luxury over space, couples wanting a premium experience without large SUV dimensions, environmentally conscious buyers wanting hybrid efficiency with luxury content, Lexus loyalists wanting a smaller vehicle.

Skip If: You need maximum rear passenger and cargo space, want engaging driving dynamics, prefer conventional automatic transmissions, require the lowest possible luxury vehicle pricing, or need frequent long-distance high-speed driving.

Overall Rating Breakdown:

• Performance: 7.0/10
• Interior: 9.5/10
• Technology: 8.0/10
• Value: 8.5/10
• Overall: 8.2/10

The 2025 Lexus LBX succeeds brilliantly in its mission to bring genuine luxury to the compact segment. Named overall winner at the 2024 What Car? The Car of the Year Awards prove that premium quality doesn’t require large dimensions. While it may not offer the most space or excitement in its price range, the LBX delivers an authentically luxurious experience with interior quality that makes it the most luxurious small car you can buy. For buyers prioritizing refinement, efficiency, and genuine luxury content over maximum practicality, the LBX represents a compelling and unique proposition that successfully challenges conventional thinking about what entry-level luxury should provide.