Lexus LBX touches down in NZ
The all-new Lexus LBX has arrived in the country, with the Japanese premium marque confirming that first demonstrators have landed across its network of dealershps.
The LBX will be offered in three different spec levels spread across front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive hardware.
Each model comes with the same 1.5-litre 3-cylinder petrol hybrid powertrain.
Demonstration models are now available at Lexus dealers nationwide.
The range starts with the $58,900 Active grade, sold exclusively in front-wheel drive.
The Relax and Cool lead the lineup, both sharing the same pricing; $65,900 as a FWD offering, or $68,900 for AWD.
Lexus New Zealand vice president Andrew Davis said that Active, Relax, and Cool are names that aim to characterise ‘moods’ — a move that underlines a desire for a younger, more adventurous set of customers.
A “mostly urban driver with an active lifestyle”, according to Lexus.
“We are trying something a bit different with the LBX," Davis said.
Traditionally our model range is offered in a range of grades or variants with significant interior and exterior differences between them.
“For LBX there will be some slight variations in features, but it is more about the styling treatment and design so we will offer three differing ‘moods’ not grades, which says a lot about this new car and how it is positioned for today’s new Lexus customer.
“The moods – Active, Cool and Relax – are tailored to reflect individuals’ lifestyles and aesthetic.”
Lexus LBX features
Davis noted that the model has received a strong reception in other markets, having been named as a top three finalist by the World Car Awards for in its Urban Car category.
“Motoring award judges have been impressed by LBX – not just for its looks and interior quality but also for its superior handling and overall driving experience.
LBX is moving the premium hybrid game on to the next level,” said Davis.
Out of the box, the Active spec comes with 18-inch wheels, twotone bodywork, front and rear parking sensors, ambient lighting, faux leather, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Relax and Cool add a 13-speaker Mark Levinson sound system with active noise control, automatic parking, extra parking sensors front and rear, a 360-degree camera, and ambient lighting with multiple colour options.
The differences between the two models centre around a host of cosmetic elements.
The Relax gets 18-inch dark metallic wheels and either black or tan leather-accented seats.
The Cool, meanwhile, gets sputtered 18-inch wheels and Ultrasuede-appointed upholstery.
The LBX comes hot on the heels of a record year for the Lexus brand in New Zealand. It sold 1309 vehicles last year, with 90 per cent of those vehicles being either hybrid or fully electric. Should the Lexus prove successful, another strong year could be on the cards. / Stuff