Lexus has confirmed that the LBX Morizo RR (Rookie Racing) concept will enter production and arrive in the Australian market in the first half of 2025.
It is a high-performance, limited-volume version of the recently launched Lexus LBX.
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, an 8-speed automatic transmission, electronically controlled full-time AWD, sports suspension and tyres, and performance brakes.
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.
The LBX Morizo RR ushers in a world-first with a 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.
Lexus Australia chief executive John Pappas says the LBX Morizo RR is further proof that Lexus is committed to building luxury cars that are 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,” Pappas says.
“The LBX has been very well received since its launch, with the limited volume of the LBX Morizo RR set to entice customers wanting maximum thrills along with refinement and luxury,” he says.
The LBX Morizo RR builds on the qualities of the LBX Luxury and Sports Luxury grades. The lightweight, compact platform is stiffened at the front. At the same time, 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.
Extreme performance
The LBX Morizo RR’s 1.6-litre inline 3-cylinder turbocharged engine with intercooler (G16E-GTS) is optimised for extreme driving. It is rich in power with 206kW and stacked with 390 Nm of torque available from 3,250 to 4,600rpm for mid-range thrust.
During 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 meet Lexus’s requirements for smooth and refined acceleration.
Electronically-controlled full-time AWD
The electronic AWD system splits torque distribution between the front and rear wheels based on driving conditions, ensuring confident and precise handling.
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 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 callipers. Rear brakes use solid 281mm x 12mm rotors with floating single-piston callipers.
Maximum driving enjoyment
Two specially developed transmissions add an extra layer of excitement for driving enthusiasts: an 8-speed automatic offering rhythmic and rapid quick-fire changes and the first-ever Lexus 6-speed manual gearbox 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 and blipping downshift control, facilitated by integrating the hydraulic clutch pressure and powertrain management systems for an exhilarating engine sound on down changes.
Bespoke sports design
The LBX Morizo RR sits 10mm lower than its LBX siblings, and its exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels and stylish aerodynamic design improvements create 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 callipers displayed through the tall wheels.
Horizontal fins fitted to the outer sides of the lower front bumper provide aerodynamic stability. They also offer cooling benefits 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. Vertical fins incorporated into the lower sides help reduce air turbulence and decrease rearward air resistance. At the same time, dual large-diameter muffler baffles offer both a functional benefit and a commanding aesthetic.
Tazuna interior
Every Lexus interior is built around the driver through the Tazuna concept. All controls are intuitively placed and fall easily to hand, allowing the driver to maintain forward vision and eyes on the road.
An interior highlight is the sculptured front sports seats, adding comfort for everyday driving while offering extra lateral support for high-speed cornering.
The sports steering wheel is wrapped with dimpled premium leather, adding a luxurious finish and reassuring grip. Additionally, the 12.3-inch display screen offers a choice of three layouts, including displays inspired by motorsports.
The aluminium accelerator, clutch, and brake pedal surface complete the visual appeal, and the shape and angle of the brake and clutch pedals are optimised for precise control.
Active Sound Control, tuned to the various drive modes, widens smiles by amplifying driving sounds through the audio speakers. This is achieved by synchronising engine and exhaust resonances with the car’s acceleration and deceleration.
The 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, unique 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 will join the LBX lineup in the first half of 2025. The final specifications and pricing for the Australian market will be announced later.
