The first-ever Lexus LBX has arrived in NZ, and we weren’t invited to the launch.
Alright, on the face of it this may sound like sour grapes, however, with the all-new nameplate offering hybrid efficiency, compact agility and (here’s the biggie) luxurious sophistication to the popular compact crossover segment, we guess we can see why Lexus went with the ‘in-crowd’ influencers to reveal their new entry point to Lexus luxury. Nope, not bitter!
With list prices that begin at $58,900 + ORC, the LBX is certainly out to grab your attention, and with its combination of Lexus luxury, practicality and only being available with a hybrid powertrain, it will undoubtedly hold it too.
Positioned ahead of the UX in the portfolio, LBX is specifically designed to attract urban drivers with active lifestyles. Lexus New Zealand Vice President Andrew Davis says, “We are taking a slightly different approach with the LBX. Typically, our model range offers various grades or variants with significant differences in interior and exterior features. However, for LBX, while there will be some slight variations in features, the focus is primarily on styling treatment and design. Hence, we will offer three distinct ‘moods’ instead of grades, which truly reflects this new car’s positioning for today’s new Lexus customers. The moods – Active, Cool, and Relax – are tailored to reflect individuals’ lifestyles and aesthetic preferences.”
Revolving around a remarkably responsive and efficient three-cylinder 1.5 litre petrol hybrid engine, the LBX squarely targets urban drivers seeking a blend of casual chic style combined with the sophisticated and refined Lexus driving experience.
The Active variant, available in front-wheel drive, stands out with its 18” dark grey metallic and machined alloy wheels, a two-tone exterior, and a comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ package. Inside, the interior showcases silky white ambient lighting and black synthetic leather seats.
Additionally, the Active variant boasts features such as a reversing camera with dynamic guidelines, automatic high beam, parking support brake (equipped with four x front and rear parking sensors), and a six-speaker sound system incorporating wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Both the Relax and Cool moods feature active noise control with engine sound enhancement, Lexus Teammate (auto parking) accompanied by six x front and rear parking sensors, and a panoramic view monitor. These moods also offer multi-colour ambient interior lighting, allowing passengers to adjust the ambiance while enjoying the superior audio experience provided by the 13-speaker Mark Levinson premium sound system.
Relax distinguishes itself with 18” dark premium metallic alloy wheels, while its interior showcases semi-aniline leather accented seats, available in both black or saddle tan.
Cool, on the other hand, features 18” black sputtered alloy wheels and invites passengers to indulge in the ride with leather and Ultrasuede accented seats, available in black and dark grey.
Both Relax and Cool moods are offered in either front-wheel drive or E-Four all-wheel drive options.
With a starting price of $58,900 +ORC for the Active front-wheel drive variant, the LBX represents the most accessible new Lexus model in the lineup. The pricing of LBX includes a four-year unlimited kilometre new vehicle warranty, a four-year unlimited kilometre full maintenance service plan, an eight-year or 160,000-kilometre high voltage battery warranty, and a four-year Lexus Plus AA Roadside Assistance package.
The launch and arrival of LBX in New Zealand follows a tremendously successful year for the marque, with Lexus New Zealand selling 1,309 new vehicles in 2023, of which 90 percent were electrified. The introduction of LBX has contributed to the recently reached milestone of 15,000 total Lexus sales in New Zealand.
