Lexus LBX

If you like Lexus’s cool, quirky styling, but don’t need a big, expensive SUV, the LBX could be the perfect option. It might be the most affordable way into a Lexus, but it’s just as stylish as its bigger siblings, has a suitably upmarket interior, and gets a hybrid engine.

Space is at a bit of a premium, but for the price it’s difficult to find alternatives with the same posh pretences. The Audi Q2 and Mini Countryman are in the same ballpark, while the bigger Mercedes GLA isn’t a massive leap in price – but the LBX is a rather rare compact and classy SUV proposition.

In short, the Lexus LBX is small and posh, a bit like a designer card wallet – there’s plenty of appeal, but without the unnecessary extra space of a fancy, more expensive handbag.

And design appeal is something the LBX has in spades, despite its compact dimensions. There are narrow headlights up front around a large grille, while the rear end sports a cool light signature that spans the full width of the car.