- The Lexus LBX Morizo RR concept was introduced at the Tokyo Auto Salon in January.
- The concept pairs the GR Yaris and Corolla’s 300 hp, 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with a new direct shift eight-speed automatic transmission.
- The head of Lexus Australia says that although a production version of the vehicle has not been confirmed, it is “highly likely.”
In January, Lexus teased us with an exciting version of the LBX compact crossover that borrowed its three-cylinder turbo engine from the high-performance Toyota GR Yaris and GR Corolla. Initially presented as a concept, it now appears that this model is set to become a reality.
Lexus was encouraged by Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda to create the LBX Morizo RR concept. Apart from featuring a 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 300 hp (224 kW / 305 PS), the crossover undergoes several other modifications to enhance its driving dynamics and track performance.
More: Lexus LBX Morizo RR Concept Packs GR Yaris’ 300 HP In An SUV Suit
According to John Pappas, CEO of Lexus Australia, a production version of the high-performance concept is ‘highly likely, but not confirmed.’ Pappas stated to Drive that his division is committed to doing everything possible to make the model available to Australian customers.
This aligns with Toyoda’s own suggestion that a production version is coming. In a promotional video, he mentioned of the LBX Morizo RR concept that “this one will be next year,” after highlighting that sales of the standard LBX were scheduled to commence by the end of 2023.
There’s good reason to believe that developing a production version of the high-performance vehicle will be relatively straightforward for Lexus. In addition to being based on the Toyota Yaris Cross platform, the concept version showcased at the Tokyo Auto Salon is already quite close to production. Rumors suggest that it’s currently being used by Toyoda as his daily driver.
Although it is powered by Toyota’s 1.6-liter engine, it will get some Lexus luxuries, like Toyota’s upcoming eight-speed automatic Direct Shift Transmission. Power will still be sent to all four wheels through the same Torsen limited-slip differentials as the GR Yaris.
The concept version of the LBX Morizo RR also features a blacked-out grille with a yellow accent, complemented by yellow brake calipers hidden behind 19-inch aluminum wheels, and twin tailpipes. Lexus has also equipped it with sport seats and alloy pedals to help keep the driver comfortable and in control during high-speed bends
If the LBX Morizo RR goes into production, it will represent a significant improvement over the standard model, which is powered by a 1.5-liter three-cylinder hybrid. Equipped with a pair (or trio) of electric motors, the powertrain delivers a somewhat underwhelming 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS) and 137 lb-ft (185 Nm) of torque.
However, the bad news for North America is that, much like the GR Yaris, since we don’t receive the regular LBX, it’s highly unlikely that Lexus will go through all that trouble to sell a few units here in the States.
