Lexus LBX Morizo RR headed to Oz

LEXUS Australia has confirmed that the sporty LBX Morizo RR is headed Down Under in the first half of 2025.

Entering production in the new year, the turbocharged 206kW hatch will be offered in limited numbers and is said to combine typical Lexus luxury with serious sporting flair.

The production version of the LBX Morizo RR follows the concept model shown at January’s Tokyo Auto Salon and features the same GR Corolla-sourced G16E-GTS 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine developing 206kW and 390Nm.

Power is channelled to the road via an electronically controlled all-wheel drive system and the choice of a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering a 0-100km/h time of just 5.2 seconds.

Handling and braking duties are likewise enhanced and are said to redefine Lexus’ acclaimed driving signature.

The LBX Morizo RR features what Lexus claims is a world-first technology using thermoset resin in the front lower control arms to enhance steering response and feel across all speeds and driving conditions.

It is stiffer than the donor model, and widened to incorporate the AWD running gear, lowered double wishbone suspension (-10mm), and wider 19-inch alloy wheels.

Stopping power is provided by four-wheel discs measuring 356mm at the front and grasped by four-piston monobloc callipers. The rear rotors measure 281mm in diameter and feature floating single piston callipers.

The Lexus LBX Morizo RR measures 4190mm in length (unchanged), 1840mm in width (+15mm), 1535mm in height (-25mm), and rides on a 2580mm wheelbase (unchanged). It tips the scale at 1485kg, 70kg more than the donor model.

On the design front, the Lexus LBX Morizo RR sports its own aerodynamic enhancements including unique front and rear bumper designs, bespoke grille, colour-coded wheel arch extensions, accentuated sill covers, and red-painted brake callipers.

Interior highlights include sculptured sport seats with contrasting red stitching, sports steering wheel wrapped in dimpled leather, a 12.3-inch display screen and aluminium pedals.

“The LBX Morizo RR is a game-changer for Lexus in so far that it encapsulates the exhilarating to drive qualities of the LFA supercar into an everyday compact luxury car,” said Lexus Australia chief executive John Pappas.

“It shows our passion for cars and builds excitement around our brand.

“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.”

While Mr Pappas did not detail just how many examples of the Lexus LBX Morizo RR will be made available to Australian customers, he said the model will be in local showrooms in the first half of 2025 with specification and pricing to be announced later.