Yaris Cross-based Lexus rumoured

Lexus may soon see a new addition to its line-up, with rumours emerging of a luxury crossover based on Toyota's Yaris Cross.

The new report from Japanese auto publication Mag-X, suggests there have been plans for the crossover since May 2020, when China’s Autohome speculated on potential details.

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Toyota Yaris Cross

According to the publications, the new Lexus crossover would use the same GA-B platform utilised by the Yaris Cross, and likely share its engine choices – an 88kW 1.5-litre three-cylinder or 85kW hybrid. Both use a CVT driving the front wheels, with AWD optional.

While naming is unconfirmed, Lexus has filed a trademark application for the ‘LBX’ name in Europe – a popular target market for the Yaris Cross. In Lexus parlance, ‘X’ represents an SUV body while ‘L’ has often been reserved for luxury cars – though it’s also been used in ‘Lexus Future’ concept cars.

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Lexus UX 200 Crafted Edition

The smallest SUV in the current Lexus range is the UX, itself based on the GA-C platform shared by Toyota’s CH-R and Corolla Cross.

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The Yaris Cross and Lexus UX are both sold here, so an Australian launch for the potential Lexus seems probable. Pricing of the crossover obviously remains unknown, but Toyota currently asks between $26,990 and $37,990 (plus on-road costs) for a Yaris Cross. A Lexus on the same platform would be up against the likes of Audi’s Q2 and BMW’s X1.

We’ll keep you informed with any updates on the Lexus range as new information comes to light.