Lexus LBX Morizo RR Concept: A GR Yaris in luxury clothing

Lexus LBX Morizo RR Concept: A GR Yaris in luxury clothing

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The luxury division of the Japanese carmaker, Toyota, has unveiled its high-performance LBX Morizo RR Concept, following this year's Tokyo Auto Salon debut of the updated Toyota GR Yaris.‍

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All this was done in pursuit of luxury and performance. Interestingly, it packs the same impressive powerplant as the Toyota GR Yaris. A surprise, indeed, but a welcome one. 

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In this application, the 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine has been tuned to pump out 224kW and 400Nm, similar to the power figures of the GR Yaris variant meant for the Japanese market. 

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This is a lot more than the average LBX with a Yaris Cross hybrid powertrain, thanks to Toyota's relatively newfound expertise in making middle-of-the-road small vehicles exciting. Running on 19-inch wheels, the Lexus LBX shifts through a Direct Shift 8-speed automatic transmission (also from the GR Yaris) that sends power to all four corners.

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Slotting below the UX, the LBX concept measures 4,190mm in length, 1,845mm in width, and 1,535mm in height. 

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While interior details are yet to be disclosed, the LBX concept looks sporty on the outside, courtesy of the Sonic Chrome black shade, which is further complemented by dual exhaust tips, a yellow strip on the front grille, and brake callipers finished in the same contrasting hue. 

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The Lexus LBX remains a concept for now, and the Japanese manufacturer hasn’t said anything regarding putting it into production. However, if it goes into production, the LBX is poised to redefine standards in both performance and compact luxury.