The All-NewLBX Morizo RR
Lexus LBX Morizo RR. Pre-production model shown. Final range and specifications may differ from those depicted. Filmed on a closed private track. All driving is performance under controlled conditions.
LEXUS CONFIRMS LBX MORIZO RR, AND IT’S BOUND FOR AUSTRALIA
A new type of driving excitement is on the way, with Lexus confirming the LBX Morizo RR concept will enter production and is set to arrive in the Australian market in the first half of 2025.
The LBX Morizo RR is a high-performance, limited volume version of the recently launched LBX. It combines typical Lexus luxury with serious sporting flair for an exhilarating driving experience. The concept version was shown at the Tokyo Auto Salon held in January.
Developed alongside master driver Akio Toyoda, also known by his social handle ‘Morizo’, the new addition to the LBX lineup features a powerful 1.6-litre inline 3-cylinder turbocharged engine with intercooler, a direct shift 8-speed automatic transmission, electronically controlled full-time AWD, sports suspension and tyres and performance brakes to redefine the Lexus Driving Signature (LDS).
Mr. Toyoda says the LBX Morizo RR is designed to feel natural and rewarding to drive while being as comfortable as a favourite pair of sneakers.
Continuing the Lexus pursuit of innovation, 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.
Lexus Australia Chief Executive John Pappas says the LBX Morizo RR is further proof that Lexus is committed to building smart and stylish luxury cars that are super exciting to drive.
“The LBX Morizo RR is a game-changer Lexus in so far that it encapsulates the exhilarating to drive qualities of the LFA supercar into an everyday compact luxury car.
“It shows our passion for cars and builds excitement around our brand,” he said.
“The LBX has been very well received since its launch, with the limited volume LBX Morizo RR set to entice customers wanting maximum thrills along with Lexus refinement and luxury.”
The LBX Morizo RR builds on the inherent qualities of the LBX Luxury and Sports Luxury grades. 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.
Lexus LBX Morizo RR Chief Designer Kunihiko Endo said racing driver Masahiro Sasaki was integral in the car’s development at Shimoyama (Lexus technical centre) and various other circuits.
“When you press the accelerator it delivers performance that exceeds expectations. This high-performance model fosters enjoyable dialogue with the car, evoking smiles and an exhilarating sense of the extraordinary.”
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The LBX Morizo RR’s 1.6-litre inline 3-cylinder turbocharged engine with intercooler (G16E-GTS) is optimised for extreme and seamless sports driving. It is rich in power with 206kW and stacked with 390 Nm of torque available from 3,250 to 4,600rpm for rapid mid-range thrust.
Responsiveness is further aided with significant weight reduction of major engine components, 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.
Importantly, the engine’s performance delivery is meticulously tuned to keep with Lexus requirements of smooth and refined acceleration.
Electronically-controlled full-time AWDThe electronically-controlled AWD system splits torque distribution between the front and rear wheels based on driving conditions, ensuring confident and precise handling to enhance the driving experience.
Pressing the AWD MODE switch locks the system into 50:50 AWD, equalising traction on all four wheels for improved stability on slippery surfaces.
A Limited Slip Torsen®1 rear differential is available. The LSD rapidly distributes optimal torque to the left and right wheels, ensuring sharp acceleration out of corners and stable control, even on constantly changing road surfaces.
Stopping power is provided by two-piece ventilated front discs measuring 356mm x 28mm at the front, activated with 4-piston monobloc calipers. Rear brakes use solid 281mm x 12mm rotors with floating single piston calipers.
Transmissions tuned for maximum driving enjoymentTwo 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 gearbox2 featuring Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) technology that adjusts engine speed for smoother and seamless cog swaps.
The direct shift 8AT in normal ‘D’ mode responds intuitively to driving behaviour and road conditions, allowing the driver to concentrate on steering, acceleration and braking without distraction. Sport ‘S’ mode dials up the thrills by keeping the engine in its optimal power band by selecting gears that enhance throttle response and acceleration.
Selecting the ‘M’ position with the shift lever activates manual mode, enabling gear changes via the paddle shifters. This mode features gear hold control, allowing the engine to reach maximum rpm. It also includes high-response upshift control and blipping downshift control, facilitated by integrating the hydraulic clutch pressure and powertrain management systems for an exhilarating engine sound on down changes.
To the eye, there’s no mistaking the LBX Morizo RR’s intent. It sits 10mm lower than its LBX siblings, with exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels and stylish aerodynamic design improvements creating a striking road presence.
The unique front bumper and grille provide a sporting aesthetic while enhancing aerodynamic and cooling performance. Body-coloured flared wheel arches and unique lower side sills accentuate the low centre of gravity, with red brake calipers displayed through the tall wheels.
Horizontal fins fitted to the outer sides of the lower front bumper provide aerodynamic stability. They also provide a cooling benefit by channelling air to the sub radiator on the right, and transmission oil cooler on the left for grades with the 8AT.
The distinctive rear bumper is also designed for aerodynamic performance, with vertical fins incorporated into the lower sides to help reduce air turbulence and decrease rearward air resistance, while dual large-diameter muffler baffles offer both a functional benefit and commanding aesthetic.
Tazuna interior concept and a refined Lexus cabinEvery Lexus interior is built around the driver through the Tazuna concept, with all controls intuitively placed and falling easily to hand, allowing the driver to maintain forward vision and eyes on the road.
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.3
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.
Notwithstanding the attention paid to enhancing the sports feeling from inside the car, engineers have also paid special attention to eliminating unwanted noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) to preserve a level of cabin refinement and quietness expected of Lexus.
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.
The LBX Morizo RR joins the LBX lineup in the first half of 2025. Final specification and pricing for the Australian market will be announced later.
Lexus LBX Morizo RR4| Overall Length | 4,190mm (+/-0) |
| Overall Width | 1,840mm (+15mm) |
| Overall Height | 1,535mm (-25mm) |
| Wheelbase | 2,580mm (+/-0) |
| Vehicle Weight | 1,485kg (+70kg) |
| Powertrain | 1.6L inline 3-cylinder intercooled turbocharged engine (G16E-GTS) |
| Maximum power | 206kW @ 6,500rpm |
| Maximum torque | 390Nm @ 3,250-4,600rpm |
| 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 |
