Lexus LBX Morizo RR Concept: A High-Performance Reimagining
The Tokyo Auto Salon has been a stage for the unveiling of many performance-oriented vehicles, and this year, Lexus took the opportunity to showcase their latest creation—the Lexus LBX Morizo RR Concept. This high-performance iteration of the new compact crossover is designed with an emphasis on driver engagement while maintaining the brand's signature luxury.
Design Evolution
The Lexus LBX Morizo RR Concept presents itself as a more aggressive counterpart to its base model, the 2024 Lexus LBX. The concept features widened dimensions, sporting an additional 20 mm in width and shedding 10 mm in height compared to the regular LBX, giving it a stance that suggests enhanced stability and presence. Its design language carries over some of the sophisticated cues from the standard model but injects them with a dose of adrenaline—most notably through exclusive "Morizo" yellow accents adorning elements like the spindle grille molding, brake calipers, and seatbelts emblazoned with the Morizo RR logo.
Images accompanying this release show off these unique aesthetic touches along with sports seats, alloy pedals, and colored wheel arches that contribute to its sporty demeanor—a stark contrast to the more subdued appearance of its sibling.
Under the Hood
Whereas the conventional Lexus LBX draws power from a modest 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine paired with an Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT), yielding 136 DIN horsepower and achieving 0-62 mph in a respectable 9.2 seconds; the Morizo RR Concept promises significantly higher output figures. It boasts a turbocharged and intercooled 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine producing an impressive 305 DIN hp/224 kW at peak performance.
This potent mill is mated to a Direct Shift eight-speed automatic transmission distributing force across all four wheels via an electronically controlled full-time all-wheel-drive system. While specific acceleration times remain undisclosed for this concept vehicle, one can infer that it will eclipse its less powerful relative by quite a margin when launching from standstill to highway speeds.
Aerodynamics and Handling
In pursuit of superior aerodynamic efficiency, developers have drawn upon technologies from air racing disciplines—an intriguing detail that hints at serious attention paid towards minimizing drag and maximizing downforce for improved handling dynamics at speed.
Suspension duties are handled by MacPherson struts up front and double wishbones at the rear—setup choices indicating a focus on providing both comfort during daily driving scenarios as well as sharpness around corners when pushed harder.
Tailored Experience
The interior space reflects Lexus' commitment to casual luxury combined with functional enhancements tailored for spirited driving sessions. The ochre-colored cabin complements exterior styling cues while promising occupants an environment where premium materials meet purposeful ergonomics.
"Sonic Chrome Meets Black": An Exclusive Palette
Rounding out this package is an exclusive color scheme dubbed "Sonic Chrome with Black," which further distinguishes it from other offerings within Lexus' lineup—and indeed within its segment—as something truly special for enthusiasts seeking both refinement and excitement behind the wheel.
Last Word on Performance Luxury Crossovers
The Lexus LBX Morizo RR Concept represents not just another step forward for Lexus in terms of engineering prowess but also serves as evidence of their willingness to push boundaries within established segments. As we await further details such as pricing or potential production plans, what remains clear is that this concept car sets forth exciting possibilities for future iterations of performance crossovers under Toyota's luxury marque.
-Ed
2024 Lexus LBX Morizo RR Concept
