Toyota’s fire-breathing GR Corolla Morizo will be joined by a Morizo sibling from the Lexus stable.
Lexus has confirmed the LBX Morizo RR concept will enter production and is set to arrive in the Australian market in the first half of 2025.
The concept version was shown at the Tokyo Auto Salon held in January.
The new addition to the LBX lineup features a powerful 1.6-litre in-line three-cylinder turbocharged engine with intercooler, a direct shift eight-speed automatic transmission, electronically controlled full-time AWD, sports suspension and tyres and performance brakes to redefine the Lexus Driving Signature (LDS).
The car sits 10mm lower than its LBX siblings, with exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels and stylish aerodynamic design improvements creating a striking road presence.
The three-cylinder turbo, also found in the GR Yaris and Corolla, develops 206kW of power and 390Nm of torque, the latter available from 3250 to 4600 rpm.
Two specially developed transmissions add an extra layer of excitement for driving enthusiasts: a direct shift 8-speed automatic offering rhythmic and rapid quick-fire changes, and the first ever Lexus 6-speed manual gearbox featuring Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) technology that adjusts engine speed for smoother and seamless cog swaps.
Responsiveness is further aided with significant weight reduction, including an aluminium die-cast cylinder block with shallow water jackets and narrow-diameter head bolts, high-strength aluminium cylinder head, hollow-assembly camshafts and lighter pistons and crankshaft.
During normal engine operating speed, the turbo wastegate valve remains closed for instant torque delivery and no turbo lag.
A Limited Slip Torsen rear differential is optional.
Stopping power is provided by two-piece ventilated front discs measuring 356mm x 28mm at the front, activated with four-piston monobloc calipers.
Rear brakes use solid 281mm x 12mm rotors with floating single piston calipers.
The LBX Morizo RR ushers in a world-first with Response-Enhancing Damping Structure (REDS).
This pioneering technology uses thermoset resin in the front lower control arms to enhance steering response and feel across all speeds and driving conditions, further adding to the LDS.
The lightweight compact platform is made stiffer at the front, while the rear is also rigid but now wider to incorporate the AWD differentials, double wishbone sports suspension and 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in wider 235mm performance tyres.
The intimate connection between car and driver – the essence of the LDS where dynamic responses are faithful to the driver’s input – is more harmonious in the LBX Morizo RR with the driving position lowered by 10mm from the hip point for greater car connection.
An interior highlight are the sculptured front sports seats, adding comfort for everyday driving while offering extra lateral support for high-speed cornering.
They exude typical Lexus Takumi craftsmanship with a high-quality finish, surface material that is pleasant to touch and unique red stitching further underlining this particular LBX’s very sporty nature.
The sports steering wheel is wrapped with dimpled premium leather, adding both a luxurious finish and reassuring grip for spirited driving.
Additionally, the 12.3-inch display screen offers a choice of three layouts, including displays inspired by motorsports.
Aluminium accelerator, clutch and brake pedal surfaces complete the visual appeal, with the shape and angle of the brake and clutch pedals optimised for precise control.
Active Sound Control tuned to the various drive modes widens smiles by amplifying driving sounds through the audio speakers, achieved by synchronising engine and exhaust resonances with the car’s acceleration and deceleration.
Extensive use of damping materials throughout the body, high-dampening mastics on sections of the roof panel, special foaming on the underside of the bonnet and optimal placing of engine mounts to reduce start-up vibration all contribute to a soothing occupant environment.
Final specification and pricing for the Australian market will be announced later.
Lexus LBX Morizo RR
|
Overall Length |
4190mm (+/- 0) |
|
Overall Width |
1840mm (+15mm) |
|
Overall Height |
1535mm (-25mm) |
|
Wheelbase |
2580mm (+/- 0) |
|
Vehicle Weight |
1485kg (+70kg) |
|
Powertrain |
1.6L inline 3-cylinder intercooled turbocharged engine (G16E-GTS）  |
|
Maximum power |
206kW @ 6500rpm |
|
Maximum torque |
390Nm @ 3250-4600rpm |
|
Transmission |
8-speed direct-shift automatic |
|
Drive |
Electronically controlled full-time AWD |
|
0-100km/h acceleration |
5.2 seconds |
|
Wheels |
19-inch forged alloy |
|
Tyre Size |
235/45/R19 |
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