The Lexus LBX is the firm’s smallest and cutest model and has just received the high-powered, performance-focused version that we never thought we wanted but desperately want now. It is dubbed the LBX Morizo RR Concept and while it is a concept, it shows how the LBX can be transformed with the powertrain of the GR Yaris.
Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda played a key role in the creation of the LBX Morizo RR Concept and gave Lexus engineers the go-ahead to create the ultimate LBX. Found beneath the bodywork is the firm’s potent 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder pumping out 224 kW (300 hp) and 400 Nm (296 lb-ft), the same as the facelifted 2024 GR Yaris.
Read: 2024 Toyota GR Yaris Adds 8-Speed Auto And Rally-Inspired Cabin
Like the updated GR Yaris, the LBX Morizo RR Concept pairs this engine with Toyota’s new eight-speed Direct Shift Transmission sending power through all four wheels. Lexus hasn’t mentioned if the crossover has the same front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials as the GR Yaris but we suspect it does. Power is sent through all four wheels.
A selection of visual changes have also been made to the Lexus but they are all relatively subtle, making it quite the sleeper. Among the tweaks made include a unique front fascia with a blacked-out grille and a yellow accent, 19-inch aluminum wheels, yellow brake calipers, a different rear bumper, and the same twin tailpipes as the GR Yaris. There is also a subtle black diffuser. Found inside the cabin of the concept are sports seats and alloy pedals.
Unfortunately, the carmaker has not provided any indication as to whether or not the car will reach production. As a reminder, the LBX is essentially the Lexus version of the Toyota Yaris Cross fitted as standard with a 1.5-liter three-cylinder petrol engine supplemented by either two or three small electric motors and pumping out up to 134 hp and 137 lb-ft (185 Nm) of torque.
