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Lexus launches go-fast LBX

Riley Riley

Lexus has launched a go-fast version of the LBX hatch and stablemate for the Toyota GR Yaris.

The most performance orientated compact luxury Lexus ever, LBX Morizo RR, will be priced from $76,490 plus on-roads when it arrives in the first half of 2025.

Two-tone paint adds $1750 to the price.

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 three-cylinder turbo, the same as that found in the GR Yaris and Corolla, develops 206kW of power and 390Nm of torque, the latter available from 3250 to 4600 rpm.

When the car was announced in August Lexus promised both manual and automatic transmissions, however there’s no mention of the six-speed manual this time around.

The cheaper GR Yaris is available with a manual or automatic.

“The LBX Morizo RR is a performance Lexus you can drive, and live with, every day. Unquestionably,” Lexus’ John Pappas said.

“It is faithful to the Lexus ‘yet’ approach: creating cars that are rewarding yet luxurious to drive, and stirring yet sophisticated in the way they deliver thrills.

“The LBX Morizo RR is the ultimate expression of the Lexus Driving Signature in small car form, setting a new benchmark for genuine performance and luxury.”

The Morizo sits 10mm lower than its LBX siblings, with exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels and stylish aerodynamic design improvements creating a striking road presence.

High levels of grip and responsiveness are provided by the electronically controlled full-time all-wheel-drive system with rear Torsen limited-slip differential, which precisely distributes front-rear torque to help reduce understeer and provide dynamic responses faithful to driver input.

Impressive stopping comes from aluminium monobloc four-piston calipers matched to 356mm x 28mm two-piece ventilated discs at the front, with floating single-piston calipers and 281mm x 12mm solid discs at the rear.

The Morizo takes performance-inspired styling to the next level with exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels, along with aerodynamic upgrades including a new front bumper and vertical fins on the rear.

A specially developed dual-tip exhaust system, featuring a secondary intake duct which opens at high speeds to enhance output, then closes at lower speeds to provide luxury quietness.

Inside, the Morizo RR brings signature Takumi craftsmanship with high quality materials, superb fit and finish and unique sporting character with black leather-accented sports front seats, shift knob and dimpled steering wheel with contrast red stitching.

The word Morizo is the name given by Global Chairman Akio Toyoda to favourite vehicles he has helped develop – cars he would like to keep in his personal garage.

Further details of the LBX Morizo RR will be available closer to its Australian launch in the first half of 2025.

 

CHECKOUT: Lexus LM: Nice but what about the price?

CHECKOUT: Lexus LBX: The ‘L’ is for Citroen

 

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