The all-new Lexus LBX features at the 2023 Lexus Melbourne Cup in November, ahead of Lexus bringing the bijou bus into Australia early next year. Lexus has a way of making the simple into stylish, and if the pictures are anything to go by, the new compact hybrid SUV is a pretty little thing

Lexus Australia Chief Executive John Pappas said, “The Lexus Melbourne Cup showcases all that is stylish, sophisticated and refined, which also speaks to our range of Lexus vehicles. The LBX, in particular, shows that luxury is not defined by vehicle size. It looks, feels and drives like a Lexus should. It introduces levels of sophistication and refined quality rarely seen in a car this size, but nevertheless expected by premium buyers. LBX will appeal to youthful customers with an active urban lifestyle wanting luxury integrated into their everyday driving experience, whatever that may be on any given day.”

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ABOVE: All New Lexus LBX (the Lexus version of Toyota’s Yaris Cross)

Across the group, Lexus and Toyota have been steadfast in their determination to stick with hybrid technology, rather than a full transition to electric only models. Although most Toyota/Lexus vehicles have a hybrid option, only 2 Lexus SUVs are pure-electric, and one of those is a joint project with Subaru. Is it strange to bring in a brand-new model with an internal combustion engine as part of its DNA? No not really, considering Toyota already has the Yaris Cross, LBX’s poor sister.

Hybrid Lexus/Toyotas have been hugely popular, and while they are, Toyota/Lexus will keep ‘em coming.  We think this Lexus version of a Toyota works fabulously well, especially in the gay market where a badge matters (and there is no use pretending it doesn’t).

The new LBX still has the Lexus spindle grille, and although it is tamed down a notch, Lexus designers claim their inspiration came from the 2003 Lexus LS-F concept. The LBX promises to bring Lexus hybrid luxury and handling refinement to a size of SUV hybrid pioneered by Yaris Cross Hybrid.

Like the upstartish Yaris Cross, classy LBX power comes from a 1.5-litre inline three-cylinder hybrid for both “performance and outstanding fuel economy.” This powertrain uses a compact and lightweight transaxle with enhanced motor output and a high-output nickel-metal hydride battery for both front-drive and all-wheel drive variants.

The AWD versions will give the active gays more mini-camping options, right?

Lexus will confirm LBX details early next year, but the LBX will not be alone as a showcase vehicle at Flemington Racecourse throughout the Melbourne Cup Carnival. We’ll bring you more as Lexus discretely leaks more snippets.

More LEXUS at GayCarBoys