Lexus BX based on Toyota Yaris Cross may come in 2023

KUALA LUMPUR: Based on the Toyota C-HR, Lexus UX crossover made its debut in 2018, at that time, the automaker said it has no plans to bring a vehicle under $30,000 (RM 130,356). But as per the new rumors floating through the internet, UX would no longer be the most affordable SUV of the brand, as the automaker intends to bring a cheaper one. 

The smaller SUV would slot beneath the UX in the firm’s lineup, and it will be based on the Toyota Yaris Cross as per the reports of the Chinese website Autohome. The new SUV could wear the BX moniker.

The rumors suggest that the Lexus BX would use the hybrid drivetrain taken directly from the Yaris Cross. It comprises a 1.5-litre engine mated to an electric motor, producing a combined 116 PS of power. An F Sport edition could also be possible that would add AWD to the combination, but the report does not mention increased power for the version, as power should be greater than 116 PS to keep up the image of the F Sport.

The website does not reveal any photos of upcoming BX, though it assumes some of the designing features. As per the analysts, Lexus’s new SUV would certainly have the Lexus spindle grille with a bit more chrome where the Yaris Cross has either body-colored or black trim. It could also get some extra ground clearance for a sportier on-road appearance. All these are pure speculations, so we will have to wait and see.

For now, Toyota Yaris Cross is planned to be available in Europe and some Asian markets so that we would anticipate similar availability for the Lexus BX. As for price, Toyota has not released numbers for the Yaris Cross, but it is expected to be under that $30,000 mark, which means the BX could also start under that figure.

If rumors are to be believed, we could have the Lexus BX in front of us by 2023.

Also read: Toyota releases global sales projections for FY 2020-21, expects a drop of 2 million units