2024 Lexus LBX launched in Malaysia; price begins at RM 239k

KUALA LUMPUR: Globally revealed in June last year, the Lexus LBX has now landed on Malaysian shores. The LBX, which stands for 'Lexus Breakthrough Crossover,' is the brand’s smallest model ever and shares the same GA-B compact car global platform as the Toyota Yaris Cross.

Lexus Malaysia offers the LBX in two fully imported variants - Premium and Luxury, priced at RM 238,888 and RM 268,888, respectively. Included in the price is a 5-year, unlimited-mileage manufacturing warranty and an eight-year, unlimited-mileage battery warranty.

Both variants of the new Lexus SUV are powered by a self-charging full hybrid electric powertrain, comprising a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated three-cylinder engine that produces a maximum power of 91 PS at 5,500 rpm and a peak torque of 120 Nm from 3,800 to 4,800 rpm. Assisting the naturally aspirated engine is a 94 PS/185 Nm electric motor, which takes the total output to 136 PS and 185 Nm. 

The hybrid setup also features a newly developed bipolar nickel-metal hydride battery “with reduced weight and a more compact design that delivers higher output with much quicker response.” The power is sent to the front wheels via an 8-speed Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission, enabling the hybrid SUV to complete the century sprint in 9.2 seconds.

The Lexus LBX measures 4,190 mm in length, 1,825 mm in width, and 1,560 mm in height, and spans a wheelbase of 2,580 mm. The LBX is 305 mm shorter and 15 mm narrower than the UX, positioning it below the UX in the brand’s lineup. 

In terms of design, the new LBX boasts the Lexus Next Chapter Design while maintaining the brand’s signature identity. It features a frameless grille generating the lines of the spindle body and sharp LED headlights lined with a chrome bar. Other key highlights include - eyebrow-style DRLs, a W-shaped LED tail-light bar, a powered tailgate, and 17-inch wheels. With the Luxury trim, customers get 18-inch wheels.

The new Lexus SUV houses a simple and elegant interior with the driver’s cockpit inspired by Lexus’ Tazuna concept, creating a space where occupants can relax and connect with the vehicle. The cabin is fitted with premium upholstery and trims along with a new Tsuyasumi charcoal trim that has a shiny and textured look created with a multi-layer film technique.

The feature kit comprises - 

• 9.8-inch infotainment unit
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto
• 7-inch fully digital instrument display (12.3-inch with the Luxury trim)
• Head-up display (with the Luxury trim)
• 6-speaker sound system (13-speaker Mark Levinson sound system with the Luxury trim)
• Wireless mobile phone charger
• Dual-zone climate control
• 4 USB-C charging ports
• Keyless entry with push-button start
• Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
• 64-colour mood lighting
• Reverse camera (360-degree camera system with the Luxury trim)

The Lexus LBX also comes equipped with the Lexus Safety System + package that can detect accident risks, alert the driver, and take autonomous controls to avoid or reduce the consequences of a collision. Key safety features of the pack are - Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Pre-Collision System, Lane Tracing Assist/Lane Keep Assist, and Road Sign Assist.

Other key safety bits include -

• Eight airbags
• Lexus’ e-latch door release system with Safe Exit Assist
• Lexus Teammate Advanced Park with intelligent parking sensors
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Blind Spot Monitor

Upon launching the new Lexus LBX, Datuk Ravindran K, President of Lexus Malaysia, said, "As a new entry point to the Lexus family, the LBX carries a strong appeal to younger audiences as well as those who want a vehicle to meet their evolving lifestyle requirements.”

"With an efficient and responsive hybrid powertrain, sporty design as well as class-leading features, it is undoubtedly an attractive proposition to those seeking a compact crossover with zero compromises on luxury, refinement, and comfort," he added.

The Lexus LBX is offered in six standard colours - Silver Metallic, Sonic Chrome, Astro Gray, Sonic Copper, Sonic Quartz, and Black MC. For an extra cost, buyers can choose from three special colours: Red Spinel, Passionate Yellow, and Deep Azure.

Also read: Folks pay attention, Lexus's first EV model in Malaysia is open for booking