fbpx
Cars > Peek

The Lexus LBX Morizo RR is the hot hatch for the new generation

The concept becomes a reality for Japan and Australia

A concept car no more. PHOTO FROM LEXUS

The original Lexus LBX had the design inspiration of “Premium Casual,” which encouraged owners to use their vehicles in everyday situations while enjoying a feeling of quality and refinement.

Then came the Morizo RR edition, which was like donning a highly specialized pair of trainers for some intense, high-energy excitement.

When the chairman says so, the company must deliver. SCREENSHOT FROM LEXUS

The LBX Morizo RR was originally unveiled earlier at this year’s Tokyo Auto Salon to a surprised yet excited crowd, with none other than Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda presenting the car that bore his pseudonym.

Initially thought of as a proof of concept for what could be, Lexus has done the impossible and announced that the order book is now open to Japanese-only Lexus clients.

A hundred lucky LBX Morizo RR owners in Japan will have one-of-a-kind models. PHOTO FROM LEXUS

Additionally, it will have a Bespoke Build program for a small group of 100 dedicated and lucky customers.

This program will offer a multitude of interior and exterior personalization options to make it uniquely yours, such as seatbelt colors, interior color combinations, and even bespoke brake caliper hues.

Eligibility to partake in the program is by lottery until July 31, with entries submitted to Lexus dealerships across Japan.

The aggressive body is also very aerodynamic. PHOTOS FROM LEXUS

Exterior-wise, the LBX gets a revised front fascia and a grille that enhances cooling for the fire-breathing engine.

It also improves airflow through the body for better cooling for the brakes and reduction of lift. There is also a revised and sportier rear bumper, aggressive color-keyed wheel-arch flares, and door rocker panels to give the diminutive LBX more heft and substance.

Beautiful inside and out. PHOTOS FROM LEXUS

Gorgeous 19-inch forged-alloy wheels shod with 235/45 performance tires are its new rolling stock.

Inside, you get premium sports seats, alloy pedals, and other interior touches to signify that this is a very special and very exclusive LBX.

This makes it one of the very few Lexus models to be offered with three pedals and a stick. PHOTOS FROM LEXUS

The heart of the LBX is the Gazoo Racing-prepared G16E-GTS, the 1.6-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine found on the GR Yaris and GR Corolla rally reps.

In the LBX Morizo RR, power is cranked up to 304hp (with 400Nm of torque) driving the electronically controlled all-wheel drive. A choice of an eight-speed automatic (Lexus Direct Shift) or a six-speed manual (iMT) transmits the power.

Pretty please with a cherry on top, Lexus Philippines? PHOTOS FROM LEXUS

The LBX Morizo RR is also lower by 10mm and wider by 15mm to enhance cornering ability and traction, as well as road presence, with a lower, sportier and wider stance.

The front suspension lower control arms have also been fitted with what Toyota calls its Response Enhanced Damping Structure system, which improves feel and feedback, and reduces NVH throughout the car.

The regular LBX is already impressive and highly entertaining (if a bit anodyne-sounding to drive).

Shame that we will not be getting this exciting Morizo Edition here in the Philippines, but it looks like the Australians are also getting lucky as they are receiving it in the first half of 2025. We can keep dreaming though.



Botchi Santos

Botchi is your friendly, walking car encyclopedia. He loves helping people choose the right vehicle for themselves as much as he enjoys picking the right one for himself. Expect him to write about car culture, test drives and car-shopping advice. His regular column is called ‘Car Life’.



Comments