Browse over 9,000 car reviews

Trending News

2024 Lexus LBX Morizo RR Concept breaks cover - compact performance SUV headed to this weekend's Tokyo Auto Salon as VW T-Roc R rival

The LBX Morizo is finished in dark grey 'Sonic Chrome' with an 'Ochre'-themed interior.

Lexus has unveiled a high-performance concept version of its LBX compact hybrid crossover inspired by Toyota Motor Corporation Chairman, Akio Toyoda.

Scheduled for display at this weekend's 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon, the LBX Morizo RR Concept takes its name from the 'Morizo' pseudonym Toyoda-san now famously assumes when competing in motorsport events.

Like its showroom sibling, the LBX Morizo RR Concept is powered by a three-cylinder petrol engine, but the performance-focused one-off features the 1.6-litre (G16E-GTS) turbo intercooled unit, sending 224kW and no less than 400Nm to all four wheels via an eight-speed auto transmission and electronically-controlled, full-time all-wheel drive system.

This is the same powertrain setup as the updated 2024 Toyota Yaris GR, also revealed at Tokyo Auto Salon.

Externally, the concept features aero-influenced front and rear bumpers, extended wheel-arch flares (overall width is increased by 20mm), and 19-inch alloy rims shod with high-performance (235/45) Continental SportContact 7 rubber. Ride height is reduced by 10mm.

Externally, the concept features aero-influenced front and rear bumpers,

Finished in dark grey 'Sonic Chrome' the car features professional grade brakes with big ventilated rotors (457mm fr / 406mm rr) clamped by bright yellow calipers, with the same shade applied to the top of the grille.

The 'Ochre'-themed interior is highlighted by (you guessed it) yellow seat belts, complete with 'Morizo RR' logos, as well as sports front seats and alloy pedal covers.

Lexus is yet to confirm when (not if!) a production version of the LBX Morizo RR Concept will be offered. So, stay tuned.

The performance-focused one-off features the 1.6-litre (G16E-GTS) turbo intercooled unit.
James Cleary
Deputy Editor
As a small boy James often sat on a lounge with three shoes in front of him, a ruler between the cushions, and a circular drinks tray in his hands. He would then play ‘drivings’, happily heading to destinations unknown for hours on end. He’s since owned many cars, raced a few, and driven (literally) thousands of them at all points of the globe. He’s steered around and across Australia multiple times, spent time as an advanced driving instructor, and had the opportunity to experience rare and valuable classics here and overseas. His time in motoring journalism has included stints at national and international titles including Motor, Wheels and TopGear, and when asked to nominate a career highlight, James says interviewing industry legend Gordon Murray, in the paddock at the 1989 Australian Formula One Grand Prix was amazing, especially as Murray waived away a hovering Ayrton Senna to complete the conversation. As Deputy Editor, James manages everything from sub-editing to back-end content, while creating written and video product reviews, as well as the weekly 'Tools in the Shed' podcast.'
About Author
Trending News

Comments