From shadowy teaser to market reality, we're about to meet the 2024 Lexus LBX –a small electric SUV that will sit below the newly launched RZ EV.
Set for a global debut in June after it was first previewed in a group shot last year, the LBX effectively replaces and advances the concept of the CT200h, the long-serving hybrid hatch that launched way back in 2011. It soldiered on in Australia until 2021 and until 2022 overseas –well into the dawn of the EV era.
Although not officially confirmed, the LBX is expected to ride on the same e-TNGA architecture that underpins the Toyota BZ4X and its twin the Subaru Solterra, along with the Lexus RZ.
On the styling front, today's two teasers – above and below –point to an interesting duckbill-like front end and a largely familiar Lexus design at the rear. Our early speculative renders, further down this page, appear to have been close to the mark.
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Interestingly, playing with this teaser image reveals an 'SM9' watermark –an internal build code, or a watermark to identify the origin of leaked images? 🤔
Can the Toyota group's EVs beat the benchmarks?
Reports suggest the e-TNGA platform has been marked for an early retirement, with Toyota's new CEO Koji Sato effectively conceding in comments earlier this year that the company's current approach to EV architecture is too complex and not cost-effective for competing with the likes of Tesla.
To Toyota's credit, this writer's first experience with the BZ4x –a brief but dynamic drive at Toyota Australia's private road course on the outskirts of Melbourne –revealed it to be a convincing rival to established small EVs, if not a game-changer.
BZ4x: Things we like
- Rapid, smooth acceleration (yep, it’s an EV)
- Excellent ride comfort (on a well-maintained smooth road)
- Near-premium interior
- Excellent interior space and a decent boot with a flat loading lip
Not so much...
- ‘Fast’ DC charging speed limited to 150kW, well short of likely price rivals the Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 (350kW)
- Big centre screen’s wow factor spoiled a little by tiny driver display
- Price still unknown, but Toyota admits it won’t be cheap
As with other legacy brands, Toyota will need to pit the BZ4x against the compelling Tesla Model Y.
Like the Model 3 sedan, the Y has proven difficult for the establishment to unseat when it comes to driving range, performance, feature innovation, space, and the value that combination represents to buyers.
Even the Lexus LBX –a rival to models like the Mercedes-Benz EQA/EQB, BMW iX1 and Genesis GV60 –could struggle to win back any buyers who might've converted to Tesla, let alone win new buyers.
Toyota and Lexus will have at least one ace up their sleeve, however: a long-standing and well-earned reputation for reliability and customer care. Buyers not swayed by Tesla's reputation for innovation and sharp pricing –or indeed deterred by Elon Musk's reputation for divisive comments –may well look to these Japanese icons instead.
Mike Stevens
Watch for more of the LBX to be previewed in the lead-up to its June 5 unveiling in Milan, Italy.
And, watch for our local Lexus RZ review to go live this Thursday at 7pm –or read our earlier prototype drive here.
October 2022: Baby Lexus EV imagined
The anticipated Lexus BX, a compact SUV reportedly sharing much of its packaging with the popular Toyota Yaris Cross, is still expected to make its global debut sometime in 2023.
Lexus has yet to confirm the new model beyond a teaser image released earlier this year, and indeed the name 'BX' remains unconfirmed – but the company is known to have trademarked 'LBX' in 2020.
As the earlier teaser image revealed, we can expect the new model to take on much of Lexus's existing styling language, evolved to fit alongside models like the new-gen NX, the large RX and the new electric RZ.
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Based on that preview, we've tasked our man Theo Throttle with imagining the 'BX' in its final production form.
Most details of Theo's renderings are accurate to the teaser image, although we've had to speculate at details like the lower section of the front bumper and the overall rear-end styling –using current Lexus models as a guide, of course.
It's clear we can expect a continuation of Lexus experimenting with and evolving its famous 'spindle' grille, with the teaser revealing what looks to be a more restrained and less prominent take on the idea –barely a spindle at all, in fact, with the upper trim now separated from main grille in the lower section of the front bumper.
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For the rear, Theo has looked to current Lexus models, featuring the same hooked tail lamps, long lightbar and slender brake cooling ducts at the corners of the rear bumper. Although an educated guess, it seems likely the BX will stick to these cues.
What do you think of the upcoming Lexus BX? Tell us in the comments below, or jump over to our Wheels facebook and WhichCar facebook pages.
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Ben Zachariah
May 4, 2022: Launch schedule looking good
The 2023 Lexus BX is reportedly on schedule to be released next year, despite industry-wide supply-chain issues and new model delays.
Lexus is said to be preparing the BX for a launch in 2023 as a successor to the CT200h, which will discontinue its production run in October, according to Japanese publication Magazine X.
The report suggests the baby BX could also be the first Lexus to debut a new front-end look for the brand, dropping the oversized grille, which has been a trademark of the brand in recent years, and adopting a cleaner ‘bowtie’ look with a full-width LED light.
Given the CT200h is set to be ending its production soon, it’s possible we could see the 2023 Lexus BX make its debut in the third or fourth quarter of 2022 before its launch next year.
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November 19, 2021: Lexus BX looks to be going ahead
The 2023 Lexus BX could be edging closer to reality, despite whispers swirling as far back as 2012.
Recent reports of a baby SUV from Lexus suggested the brand was looking to create a premium version of the Toyota Yaris Cross, but a new rumour out of Japan suggests it will be more closely related to another smaller model.
Best Car is reporting the new vehicle – designed to sit under the UX small SUV in the Lexus range – will actually be based on the recently-unveiled Toyota Aygo X.
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While both the Aygo X and the Yaris Cross share the same TNGA-B platform, the Aygo X was developed specifically for Europe – allowing Lexus to borrow much of the car’s interior and exterior design, without having to heavily revise the car for markets outside of Europe.
The smaller number of changes would help keep development costs low, while still positioning it as a premium alternative to the Yaris Cross.
But rather than using the Aygo’s 1.0-litre non-turbo three-cylinder petrol engine offered in Europe, Best Car says the Lexus will instead adopt the hybrid 1.5-litre non-turbo three-cylinder powertrain from the Yaris Cross Hybrid, which uses the assistance of a 59kW electric motor.
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It’s expected the little SUV could take its design influence from the 2015 Lexus LF-SA concept, which interestingly shares the same basic silhouette with the Aygo X Prologue – a concept vehicle which preceded the production version.
However, given the very small size of the Aygo X, measuring 240mm less than a Yaris hatch, it’s possible the Lexus could be limited to the Japanese market. The country has a long history of micro city cars, and promoting a premium vehicle will be an easier task than in other countries where luxury is more closely associated with size.
Whether or not Lexus chooses to launch a luxurious mini SUV in Europe or Australia won’t be known until the model is unveiled, rumoured for the second half of 2022.
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FAQs
How much horsepower does the Lexus rz450e have? ›
Lexus RZ 450e models. The 2023 Lexus RZ 450e is an all-electric compact SUV available in Premium and Luxury trim levels. Both come with two electric motors that drive the front and rear wheels, producing a combined 308 horsepower.
Is Lexus going to make an electric car? ›Introducing the Lexus RZ 450e—an electric vehicle as only Lexus could imagine, and a bold step toward a fully electrified future. Built atop a dedicated battery-electric platform that offers instantaneous power and a low center of gravity, for an incredibly exhilarating drive.
Is Lexus coming out with new models? ›In addition to the four powertrains, the 2023 Lexus RX will be offered in six grades: Standard, Premium, Premium+, Luxury, F SPORT Handling, and F SPORT Performance. The RX 350, RX 350h, and RX 500h F SPORT Performance are expected to arrive late 2022—here's an overview of the 2023 Lexus RX's features and design.
What is the range of the rx450e? ›As a result of those market demands, many shoppers are going to completely overlook the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e, which offers only 220 miles of range with 18-inch wheels and a downright unfortunate 196 miles with the flashier 20s.
Does Lexus RZ qualify for tax credit? ›No Tax Credit
As a Japanese-built EV, the RZ isn't eligible for a $7,500 federal tax credit for its U.S. buyers, although, under the revised eligibility rules, those who lease may be able to take advantage if the leasing entity passes on the savings.
The RZ is less than three inches shorter than the RX at 189 inches in length. Inside, the RZ provides 37.5 inches of rear legroom which is matched by the RX.
How much is Lexus RX 2023 electric? ›The 2023 Lexus RZ 450e costs $59,650, including a $1,150 destination fee, and it tops out at $65,150. The first full battery electric vehicle from Lexus goes on sale in February at dealerships.
Does Lexus sell an electric SUV? ›The first fully electric Lexus SUV in the US, the RZ 450e, is now available to pre-order. Lexus is asking drivers to “experience the difference between an electric vehicle and an electric Lexus,” but is the RZ 450e worth more than a Tesla Model Y?
Where will Lexus RZ be built? ›Lexus Owner Benefits
The 2023 RZ 450e is built at the Motomachi Plant in Toyota City, Japan, and is on sale now in limited quantities.
COMING JUNE 8: THE ALL-NEW 2024 LEXUS GX.
What car is Lexus discontinuing? ›
Lexus's mid-size luxury sedan, the GS, is ending production for the U.S. after the 2020 model year. It will say goodbye with a special-edition model called the GS Black Line.
Is Lexus just a rebranded Toyota? ›Yes, the Lexus brand is owned by the Toyota Motor Corporation, which is headquartered in Japan. In many ways, however, the luxury vehicle brand operates independently from the Toyota Motor Corporation. Explore how Lexus came to be, and where the manufacturing of quality parts and vehicles takes place.
What is the range of the bZ4X? ›Toyota bZ4X Limited FWD: up to 242 miles on a full charge. Toyota bZ4X Limited AWD: up to 222 miles on a full charge.
What is the range of the Lexus electric car? ›Take its driving range: Lexus estimates it to be up to 220 miles for the Premium model with its 18-inch wheels and just 196 miles for the Luxury with its larger 20-inch wheels.
How long does it take to charge a Lexus RZ 450e? ›Charging the Lexus RZ 450e takes approximately 9 hours and 39 minutes to charge from zero to full using a typical 7kW home charging point.
What is the income limit for EV tax credit 2023? ›In addition, your modified adjusted gross income (AGI) may not exceed: $300,000 for married couples filing jointly. $225,000 for heads of households. $150,000 for all other filers.
What cars qualify for Biden tax credit? ›- Cadillac Lyriq.
- Chevrolet Blazer.
- Chevrolet Bolt & Bolt EUV.
- Chevrolet Equinox.
- Chevrolet Silverado.
- Ford F-150 Lightning (both standard and extended range battery)
- Tesla Model 3.
- Tesla Model Y (both all-wheel and long range drives)
Since the Lexus GX and LX have Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings (GVWR) greater than 6,000 pounds, they can be fully depreciated in the first year of ownership when used for business 100% of the time, giving you the freedom to spend on the things that matter most.
How many miles can a Lexus RZ go? ›| City - Cold Weather * | 195 mi |
|---|---|
| Highway - Cold Weather * | 135 mi |
| Combined - Cold Weather * | 165 mi |
The RZ 450e is available with a heat pump that will warm the battery to a temperature that will take a faster and higher charge.
How long does it take to charge a Lexus rz450e? ›
Our charging experience varied by chargers; a 50-kWh charger took one hour to deliver 19 kWh of energy, while a 62-kWh unit delivered 26 kWh in 57 minutes.
How many miles per gallon does a 2023 Lexus RX 450h get? ›Lexus expects EPA-rated efficiency at 37/34 mpg city/highway. Compare against the 2023 RX 350 AWD's 21/28 mpg or the last-gen 2022 RX450h's 31/28 mpg, and you begin to see why the RX350h seems like it hits the sweet spot. An impressive driving range exceeding 600 miles before you need to refuel helps, too.
How many miles per gallon does a 2023 Lexus RX get? ›And while there are no official estimates, the targeted2023 Lexus RX 350 gas mileage figures can reach up to 22 in the city and 29 on the highway with 25 combined MPG. With such impressive fuel efficiency, the new Lexus RX 350 is a fantastic option to help you take on your adventures.
How many miles per gallon does the rx500h get? ›Fuel economy is 27 mpg combined versus 24 mpg for the 350 AWD and 36 mpg for the hybrid. The RX 500h F Sport Performance delivers great passing power, but power delivery surges between the two power units versus acting as one unified propulsion force.
How much is Lexus electric SUV in USA? ›The RZ 450e comes in two trim levels: Premium and Luxury. The Premium version with all-wheel drive and 18-inch wheels starts at $59,650, including delivery charges, while the 20-inch variant starts at $60,890. The Luxury trim with AWD starts at $65,150.
Where are Lexus electric cars made? ›Lexus vehicles are largely produced in Japan, with manufacturing centered in the Chūbu and Kyūshū regions, and in particular at Toyota's Tahara, Aichi, Chūbu and Miyata, Fukuoka, Kyūshū plants.
Where is Lexus EV made? ›| Lexus RZ (EB10) | |
|---|---|
| Production | 2023 (to commence) |
| Model years | 2023–present (North America) |
| Assembly | Japan: Toyota, Aichi (Motomachi plant) |
| Designer | Daichi Kimura |
| 2023 Lexus RZ450eSpecifications | |
|---|---|
| Base Price | $60,150 |
| Wheelbase | 112.2 in |
| L x W x H | 189.2 x 74.6 x 64.4 in |
| 0-60 MPH | 5.0 sec (MT est) |
PHEVs with a battery of at least 7 kWh may qualify for a tax credit as long as they meet all of the other requirements. Starting on Dec. 31, 2023, vehicles with components from countries that have been designated “foreign entities of concern” will no longer be eligible for a tax credit.
How big is the battery in the rz450e? ›The RZ's battery pack is lifted directly from the single-motor bZ, and it's modestly sized with an estimated usable capacity of 63.4 kWh.
Are 2024 cars out yet? ›
For example, a 2024 model will typically debut in the fall of 2023 — and dealerships usually want the old stock gone before the new model arrives.
What is the average age of a Lexus buyer? ›The brand says its average buyer age is 53 years old, the exact same age as five years ago. Lexus' buyer loyalty is among the strongest in the industry at 60 percent.
How long does it take to build a new Lexus car? ›4. How long will it take for a vehicle that is being built to arrive to the dealership? Given there are no delays with shipping, we generally see between 45-60 days by the time a vehicle is being built to arrival.
Why is Lexus discontinued? ›Axed: Lexus IS sedan, RC coupe and CT hatch to be dropped from local line-up. Lexus has been forced to discontinue three popular models from its range due to new side impact crash test rules from November 2021.
Is Lexus still a luxury brand? ›Lexus is the luxury division of Japanese automaker Toyota. The Lexus brand was initially developed for the American market and debuted there to the enthusiasm of drivers before eventually being sold in other markets around the world.
What year Lexus is to stay away from? ›As a rule of thumb, we do advise against the 2006, 2007, and 2008 model years of some Lexus cars for various reasons. The 2007 Lexus ES 350 is one such car. The biggest problem with this luxury sedan was its dashboard and interior which just melted over time, leading to an ugly mess.
Which SUV is better Lexus or BMW? ›No matter which way you look at it, Lexus SUVs offer greater value, performance, comfort, safety, and versatility than BMW.
Why is Lexus more expensive than Toyota? ›Lexus's parent company is Toyota, and the brand exists to offer a line of more luxury vehicles compared with Toyota's more utilitarian offering. That means that Lexus and Toyota have a lot of similarities in design and construction, but that Lexus vehicles tend to have higher-end components and a more expensive design.
Is Lexus more expensive to maintain than Toyota? ›Maintaining a Lexus isn't quite as cheap as maintaining a Toyota, but it sure comes close. Since Lexus is the luxury division of Toyota, maintenance and repairs are cheap, relatively speaking. RepairPal ranked Lexus in sixth place overall for its low ownership costs.
How much is a 2024 Toyota bZ4X? ›Without any expected changes, the 2024 bZ4X should have the same pricing range as the current SUV. Prices should range from $43,215 to $49,995 (with destination) for a Limited model with AWD. The Toyota bZ4X will compete against the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Volkswagen ID.
Does bZ4X get tax credit? ›
Customers who purchase qualified residential fueling equipment after January 1, 2023, may receive a tax credit of up to $1,000.
Is a RAV4 bigger than a bZ4X? ›The bZ4X is a little longer than the RAV4, and gets a longer wheelbase, wider body, lower roof and hood and shorter rear overhang.
Will Lexus go fully electric? ›Lexus plans to go fully electric in North America by 2030 and fully electric globally by 2035. That doesn't just mean no traditional fuel-burning vehicles. It means no hybrids, either. Lexus's commitment states that it will sell only BEVs by 2030 and 2035, respectively.
What is the range of Lexus 300e electric? ›This, compact SUV combines striking design with compact proportions and outstanding smoothness to create a unique driving experience. With 40% more range than previous model, the UX 300e has a bigger 72.8kWh battery and a range of up to 250 miles** on a single charge on 100% full battery.
Will there be an all-electric Lexus? ›Lexus offers three types of electrified vehicles: hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric (referred to as Battery Electric, Battery EVs, BEVs, or simply EVs).
How long does Lexus 450h battery last? ›Your 2021 Lexus RX 450h battery will typically last between 3 to 5 years, but that can change massively depending on type of battery, weather conditions battery size, and driving habits.
What is the life of a Lexus hybrid battery? ›Under normal conditions, you can expect Lexus hybrid car batteries to last up to 150,000 miles or 15 years and sometimes even longer.
What Lexus has 472 horsepower? ›Experience the ferocious roar of a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine amplified by stacked quad exhaust tips. The IS 500 F SPORT Performance boasts a full 472 horsepower* at 7,100 rpm and 395 lb-ft of peak torque* at 4,800 rpm. And a blistering 0-to-60 time of just 4.4 seconds* . The result?
How much horsepower does a 2023 Lexus RX 450h+ have? ›The completely redesigned Lexus RX midsize luxury SUV debuts a fifth generation for 2023, based on Toyota's TNGA-K architecture. The V6 is gone and replaced by a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 275 horsepower.
What is the highest horsepower Lexus? ›Our most powerful IS ever, the IS 500 F SPORT Performance ushers in a new era of F SPORT. Its naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine boasts a full 472 horsepower. * And with a blistering 0-60 time of 4.4 seconds* , this sport sedan will dial your exhilaration levels all the way up to 11.
What is Lexus most powerful V-8? ›
The #LexusRCF is the most powerful Lexus V8 ever. delivers exhilaration both inside and out. I have a 2015 loaded, still runs like new.
What is the fastest Lexus ever? ›The Lexus LC 500, Lexus RC F and the all-new 2023 Lexus IS 500 F are the three fastest cars Lexus provides. Which one would you consider the performance car of your dreams? Discover the LC 500's incredible power for yourself.
What is Lexus strongest car? ›2022 Lexus RC F
Lexus equips the RC F with adaptive suspension, torque vectoring differential, Brembo six-piston brakes, and launch control. The RC F is one of the most powerful naturally aspirated engine-powered cars available in the market today.
The LC Convertible line includes the fastest models in the Lexus arsenal. Take a look at their racetrack ready Lexus 0-60 mph times below: 2021 Lexus LC Convertible: 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible: 4.6 seconds.
How many miles per gallon does the RX 450h+ get? ›| 2023 Lexus RX450h+ Specifications | |
|---|---|
| BASE PRICE | $63,000 (est) |
| EPA COMB FUEL ECON | 32 (gas), 76 mpg-e (gas + elec, est) |
| EPA RANGE, ELEC/COMB | 32/550 miles (est) |
| ON SALE | 2023 |
Lexus's parent company is Toyota, and the brand exists to offer a line of more luxury vehicles compared with Toyota's more utilitarian offering. That means that Lexus and Toyota have a lot of similarities in design and construction, but that Lexus vehicles tend to have higher-end components and a more expensive design.
Which Lexus SUV is the fastest? ›2021 RX 350 Engine Overview
The 2021 RX 350 is the quintessential luxury vehicle and very balanced. Each RX model has a charming looking SUV with engine ratings to match. The 2021 RX 350 F Sport Black Line Special Edition model is the strongest performing of all the trim levels and the fastest on the road.
The RX500h combines a potent turbocharged engine with a rear electric motor that's nearly twice as strong as the standard hybrid. It's also pretty easy on the eyes.
Is a V8 faster than a V6? ›V8 engines generally have more torque although, the difference can be minimal in some models. The power of eight cylinders allows for heavier hauls and higher towing capacity. More power also means quicker acceleration and speed.
Which car has the most powerful V8 engine? ›
Chevrolet Corvette C8 Z06
For that price, you get a new 5.5L naturally aspirated V8 that generates a whopping 670 horsepower making it the most powerful V8 engine ever fitted to a production car.