Lexus LBX 1.5 Hybrid Premium Plus Design

This small SUV is our reigning Car of the Year - but can it live up to that title in daily use? We're finding out

- Darren Moss

WHAT DO JUDI Dench, Lewis Hamilton and Kanye West have in common with the Lexus LBX? Well, they've each been presented with an award for outstanding achievements in their field. And back in January of this year, the LBX got its own trophy when we named it our overall 2024 Car of the Year at the annual What Car? Awards.

The LBX, then, is not only our top-rated small SUV but also the best new car to buy in 2024 - all of which makes me feel rather happy about having one as my latest company car.

On paper, the LBX is a good fit for me.

Although it's small, its SUV shape should mean that there's decent room for passengers and luggage whenever I'm the designated driver for am-dram rehearsals. Meanwhile, its hybrid set-up is already bringing a reduction in running costs. Having just swapped into it from a Genesis GV70, which managed just 24mpg on a good day, this really is cause for celebration.