Ever since the Lexus LBX was launched globally, I’ve eagerly anticipated the chance to get behind the wheel. This vehicle strikes an intriguing balance between practicality and daily usability, particularly suited to the urban landscapes of the Philippines. The LBX is the smallest car Lexus has ever built, and its name stands for Lexus Breakthrough Crossover. Intriguingly, it’s only the second Lexus to be given a three-letter name, the first being the legendary V10-engined LFA supercar. The juxtaposition of these two vehicles is ironic and fascinating, with each representing different ends of the automotive spectrum. However, despite their differences, the LBX proves to be a marvelous piece of engineering, perfectly crafted for everyday tasks while maintaining a stylish demeanor.
I still remember when Morizo talked about the LBX at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon. He said he wanted to transform the JDM Toyota Yaris Cross (not the Yaris Cross we get here in the Philippines) into a premium runabout that he could easily drive around Tokyo. I thought it was a success, and the moment I saw and drove it, I could easily see why I wanted one.
Exterior with presence
For starters, it’s a great-looking little crossover, with emphasis on little: Lengthwise it’s shorter than the Lexus UX, though it’s nearly as wide and stands about an inch taller. Photos don’t do the LBX justice; in real life, its curves, creases, and bulges give it great road presence despite the size. So you definitely won’t get bullied out there on the streets of Manila.
It’s a strikingly attractive little crossover, with photographs failing to capture its true essence. Those sweeping headlights flow through the curvy body lines, ending with an unimpeded rear lightbar. Omitting the standard Lexus logo in the rear in favor of LEXUS block lettering is also a great addition, complementing its full-length rear taillight and wide rear fenders. Two-tone diamond-cut wheels fitted with chunky tires round out the whole design. Again, road presence and style are the primary factors here, and I think it’s a huge success in reinforcing the vehicle’s robust yet elegant stance.
An interior that plays the part
Step inside, and the LBX doesn’t disappoint. The cabin exudes luxury, far exceeding expectations for an entry-level premium vehicle from other marques. Nearly every surface is adorned with Ultrasuede, contributing to a high-end feel. The electric door handles, which open with a gentle squeeze (it can also be opened manually as a fail-safe), and the electronic shifter, akin to those found in newer Lexus and higher-end Toyota HEV models, add to the futuristic vibe. The material choices and overall quality ensure that the LBX feels like a true Lexus. The standard seven-inch digital gauge cluster and a crystal-clear 9.8-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provide modern connectivity options. Physical controls for the climate system and configurable ambient lighting enhance the interior’s usability and ambiance, ensuring it looks great at any time of day, along with ease of usage.
However, the rear seat space is somewhat limited, offering just enough room for two adults, particularly those with longer legs, and fitting three passengers can be a squeeze. The trunk space, though reasonable, might not suffice for those needing more cargo capacity. This limitation could be a drawback for individuals who frequently carry more than two passengers. That being said, it’s a wonderful place to be in and gives a sliver of coziness to your everyday drive.
Driving Experience
For car enthusiasts like myself, the driving dynamics are a significant consideration, and the Lexus LBX delivers commendably. There’s a reason why a Morizo edition, equipped with the G16E-GTS engine from the Toyota GR Yaris, exists—the base chassis is that capable. In this standard version, a 1.5-liter, three-cylinder hybrid engine generates 134 horsepower and 184 Nm of torque, paired with an e-CVT. While not a powerhouse, it performs admirably, offering a light and agile driving experience. With its short wheelbase and 1280 kg curb weight, the LBX remains engaging and fun to drive. It handles corners confidently, and the suspension provides a smooth ride on the expressway. This vehicle manages to feel special, a crucial attribute for a daily premium crossover.
That said, the LBX is most content when driven gently. The three-cylinder engine and CVT gearbox can be noisy under hard acceleration, but when driven with a light touch, the transition to EV mode is seamless, particularly in urban settings. The fuel economy is impressive, achieving over 17 km/l with careful driving, and around 14 km/l in mixed conditions. While international markets offer an AWD option, the Philippines only gets the FWD version, which is more than adequate for most driving scenarios, and let’s face it, probably all you will ever need.
Verdict
The Lexus LBX is a crossover that I would seriously consider as my next daily driver. It ticks all the right boxes: style, road presence, driving enjoyment, and ease of use. It would complement my current garage perfectly. At a price of just P2,558,000 from its former P2,968,000, it’s the best premium daily driver out there in its price point and segment as it exemplifies what a modern, premium compact crossover should be—stylish, practical, and a joy to drive. However, should Lexus Philippines introduce the Morizo Edition, I might find myself rushing to make a downpayment right away.
