Lexus LBX - Engines, performance & drive

Given its Yaris Cross underpinnings, it’s no surprise that the Lexus LBX utilises the same three-cylinder engine ‘self-charging hybrid’ powertrain. It pairs a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor to produce a combined 134bhp – 5bhp more than the Toyota Yaris Cross.

As a result, it’s slightly quicker than the Yaris Cross, with a 0-62mph time of 9.2 seconds if you choose a front-wheel drive model, increasing to 9.6 seconds if you opt for the four-wheel drive version. The top speed for both versions is 106mph.

The continuously variable transmission (CVT) encourages you to adopt a smooth driving style, because being overly eager with the throttle results in more noise than forward momentum.

While it could be easy to dismiss it as a Yaris Cross in fancy clothes, Lexus has put serious effort into delivering a more refined driving experience for the LBX. The hybrid system is far quieter here than it is in the Yaris or Yaris Cross, with enough sound deadening to make the three-cylinder petrol engine almost undetectable when it fires up. There's just a distant thrum when accelerating, while no obvious engine noise is present at a cruise.

The suspension has been overhauled, too, and the LBX offers a comfortable ride for such a small car, and it’s a marked improvement over the Yaris Cross. The dampers do a good job of soaking up bumps, and only the biggest thumps are felt in the cabin. It's much like Lexus's larger SUVs in this regard. The LBX isn't the most involving car to drive, but the steering is direct, and while body roll is noticeable, the car doesn't feel wallowy in the bends.