Luxury Redefined: Explore the Lexus LBX Morizo RR, Inspired by the Toyota GR Yaris

Remember the Lexus LBX Morizo RR Concept that was unveiled in the Land of the Rising Sun at this year’s Tokyo Auto Salon? We had a sneaking suspicion that it would go into production, and now we have concrete proof. As the Japanese carmaker has formally unveiled the new model, we actually have a lot more.

Presenting in its home market, the 2024 Lexus LBX Morizo RR has a significantly more subdued look and keeps the study’s moniker. Highlights of the design are the 19-inch forged wheels, subtle chrome grille trim, and unique front and rear bumpers, rocker, and arch moldings painted in the same color as the rest of the vehicle.

Fans of the model can therefore quickly identify it, but what really sets it apart is what’s underneath the surface. The production vehicle shares the same engine as the Toyota GR Yaris, much like the concept. It can produce 295 pound-foot (400 Nm) of torque between 3,250 and 4,600 rpm and 300 horsepower (304 ps/224 kW) at 6,500 rpm.

With its combined output of 134 horsepower (136 ps/100 kW) and 136 lb-ft (185 Nm) of torque, the base model is four seconds slower than the 1.6-liter three-banger, which can accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in just 5.2 seconds. While base vehicles come with FWD, other trim levels have the AWD system. It goes without saying that the new Lexus LBX Morizo RR has all-wheel drive, which is mated to either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic.

The new model’s Lexus LBX Morizo RR interior features include red stitching, metal sports pedals, a few Alcantara accents, sports seats for better lateral support, and a number of other gadgets that highlight its sporty vibe and differentiate it even further from the crossover’s ordinary models.

In the Land of the Rising Sun, Lexus has already begun taking orders for the new LBX Morizo RR. Starting prices are 6,500,000 yen, or around $41,400 USD at the current rate of currency. Even while it is still a subcompact crossover, that amount of money is still a lot given that it is a high-end model with athletic DNA. In addition, customers have the option to acquire the Bespoke Build variation, which is priced starting at 7,200,000 yen ($45,870) and is only available in 100 copies. Be aware that a lottery will be used to sell this model.

August 2024 will mark the beginning of deliveries for the local market; the 2024 Lexus LBX Morizo RR will not travel across the ocean to reach our shores. Remember that the automaker does not offer the standard LBX in our market, thus it makes sense to keep the sporty model out of the US. It’s likely that regions outside of Japan, such as Europe and Australia, will acquire it eventually in the upcoming year.