Lexus reveals hardcore GR Yaris-powered LBX Morizo RR concept

Lexus has revealed a high-power concept version of its new LBX light SUV at Tokyo Auto Salon 2024.

Though typically associated with value-oriented luxury and reliability, Toyota's luxury spin-off has had a few massive performance hits over the years – the IS F, GS F, and stunning V10 LFA all come to mind.

On show at Auto Salon is a concept version of the brand's new LBX light SUV fitted with GR-Four all-wheel drive and the 224kW 'G16E-GTS' turbo three-cylinder heart of the facelifted GR Yaris.

That's more than twice the power of the 100kW hybrid LBX, so if the Morizo RR ever does come to fruition it'll need a serious chassis and body makeover.

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While the LBX Morizo RR remains a concept for now, rival manufacturers including Audi with the RSQ3, BMW with the X1 M35i, and Mercedes-AMG with the GLA 45 have proven this recipe can be successful.

The Sonic Chrome-coloured LBX RR Morizo was the brainchild of Akio Toyoda (his nickname being Morizo) who wanted a practical, luxurious Lexus in his garage that was still fun to drive.

It wears bespoke front and rear clips with larger intakes to feed the powerful three-cylinder engine and cool its new eight-speed automatic transmission.

The wheel arches have been pumped to house the 19-inch alloy wheels which hide yellow brake calipers. The Morizo RR sits 10mm lower than a standard LBX to improve handling and aero.

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Like the GR Yaris, the LBX Morizo RR concept uses double wishbone rear suspension design rather than the base front-drive car's torsion beam setup.

Lexus has not confirmed the LBX for production, but it has produced more outlandish vehicles in the past.

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