Lexus is expected to add a new SUV to its portfolio this year. More urban, it would take up the technical basis of the Toyota Yaris Cross and could be called BX… like a certain Citroën in its forties.
After BMW and its sports SUV XM, Lexus could also steal a name used by Citroën several decades ago. According to some sources, the future urban SUV of the premium Japanese brand could indeed be called BX. A name identical to that of the Citroën sedan of the 1980s, which also celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2022.
The arrival of an additional small SUV in the Lexus range, placed under the UX (4.50 m), has been a persistent rumor for a few years now. As early as 2020, patent filings had been put on the track with the name LBX. But this name would not fit exactly with the two-letter Lexus nomenclature: UX, NX, RX, ES, RC, LC…
A base Toyota Yaris Cross, but electric only
According to new information from Japan, and in particular from our colleagues from BestCar Japan, the Lexus BX (a name to be confirmed) would be only electric, and would not take over the simple hybrid motorization of its cousin Toyota Yaris Cross with whom it will share yet its e-TNGA platform. The Lexus urban SUV would be larger than that of Toyota with around 4.30 m (compared to 4.18 m for the Toyota). The Lexus BX should be entitled to two versions, single-motor traction or all-wheel drive thanks to two motors. It will potentially have a battery capacity of between 50 and 60 kWh, allowing it to reach around 400 to 450 km of range.
The BX will also stand out from the Yaris Cross in terms of style with references to the NX and RX, in particular for the taillight strip. At the front, no classic grille like on other Lexus hybrids but a more pinched hood. With its size and its 100% electric engine, the Japanese SUV could be on the road to the Smart #1 and future Volvo EX30, but also the future Mini Aceman and the Peugeot e-2008, soon to be restyled.
Photos : DR., illustration J.Jodry.
Also read on Auto-Moto.com:
Toyota and Lexus unveil their electric strategy with 16 concepts
Test-retro: Citroën BX 16 TRS
Lexus UX 300e: the electric SUV goes further but above all costs more
