For the new LBX Morizo RR, a high-performance Gazoo powertrain is introduced to give the little Lexus some bite
Lexus has taken the covers off its new production-ready Lexus LBX Morizo RR.
Taking the standard LBX crossover as a base, the brand’s engineers have ditched the hybrid powertrain in favour of the high-performance kit found under the Toyota GR Yaris hot hatch, uprating the chassis at the same time.
This means that under the bonnet now lies a turbocharged 1.6-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine producing 224kW and 400Nm of torque.
But here’s the thing – Australian buyers will be stuck with the figures of Toyota’s emissions compliance-focused European tune: 206kW and 390Nm. The company has not offered an explanation for this change, despite the fact that Toyota Australia’s GR models do not suffer the same penalty.
Still, considering the regular hybrid-powered LBX produces only 100kW and 185Nm, the Australian-delivered LBX Morizo RR is still likely to provide plenty of thrills.
Except… there’s one more sting.
In Japan, Lexus will be offering two gearbox options: a fast-shifting eight-speed auto and a six-speed manual with an auto-blipping function available. Australian buyers will get the auto only.
Sales figures across Australia’s performance market have shown a general decline in manual sales, leading to the removal of that option in most ‘hot hatch’ ranges.
And, while manuals have proven popular with Toyota’s hardcore GR hatches, the LBX Morizo RR’s role as a ‘luxury’ variant would likely see most buyers opt for the auto even if the manual option was available.
Power in the LBX Morizo RR goes to all four wheels via an electronically controlled all-wheel drive system, but there’s no indication as to whether the GR Yaris’s locking front and rear differentials or variable torque split function have been included as well.
Lexus is quoting a 0-100km/h time of 5.2 seconds.
As well as a new powertrain, Lexus has also paid attention to the chassis by fitting lower and stiffer springs and dampers, as well as a new ‘Response Enhancing Damper Structure’ on the lower front suspension arms that is designed to improve responsiveness while under load.
Toyota says the suspension setup itself will be less firm and retain more of a road-biased compromise between control and comfort.
The same tack has been taken with the exterior styling, too, with relatively subtle changes to the front and rear bumpers which are better optimised for airflow – whether that be in relation to cooling the engine up front or refining the airflow out back.
The body itself is the same as on a standard LBX, but the arch surrounds have been flared slightly to accommodate the larger 19-inch wheels.
These sit in front of larger brakes, with the calipers finished in red as standard, or yellow as an option.
The cabin features its own subtle updates with new, more supportive seats, contrasting stitching and aluminium pedals.
Jordan Katsianis & Mike Stevens for Automotive Daily
VIDEO: Toyota’s LBX Morizo RR b-roll (no sound)
When will the Lexus LBX Morizo RR come to Australia?
The LBX Morizo RR will launch in Australia in the first half of 2025.
Pricing, and local allocation numbers, will be revealed closer to its arrival date.
2025 Lexus LBX Morizo RR gallery
