Lexus revealed a model of its upcoming LBX crossover earlier this 12 months with the Toyota GR Yaris’ engine crammed underneath the bonnet, and the corporate’s Australian arm has put its hand up for it.
Whereas the LBX Morizo RR is barely an idea at this stage, it seems to be a logical match as a brand new efficiency mannequin for the Lexus lineup.
Chatting with CarExpert, Lexus Australia CEO John Pappas mentioned that no plans have been made at this stage for the LBX Morizo RR to enter manufacturing.
If it does enter manufacturing, nevertheless, Lexus Australia is eager to get its fingers on it.
“That factor is superior. We will certainly be trying, if that automobile can develop into obtainable for us, we’d be very excited. As a result of it’s an amazing little efficiency grade for the LBX,” he mentioned.
“We’ll be watching very intently on that one.”
The sporty LBX is powered by the three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine from the GR Corolla and up to date GR Yaris.
As an alternative of being provided solely with a six-speed guide transmission, it makes use of the newly developed Direct Shift eight-speed computerized transmission that made its debut within the updated GR Yaris on the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon.
The recent LBX’s turbocharged 1.6-litre three-pot produces 224kW of energy and 400Nm of torque, with energy despatched to all 4 wheels by an electronically managed full-time all-wheel drive system.
That’s greater than twice as a lot energy as within the common LBX, which makes use of a 1.5-litre three-cylinder hybrid powertrain with a complete system output of 100kW.
Lexus says the idea was impressed by Toyota Motor Company chairman Akio Toyoda, who goes by the nickname Morizo.
It’s distinguished visually from the common LBX by distinctive entrance and rear bumpers, that are claimed to contribute to “superior air movement”.
Different exterior highlights embody 19-inch multi-spoke aluminium wheels, yellow brake calipers, black mesh sample grille, and a 10mm automobile top discount.
Inside there are “unique” sport seats with yellow seat belts, in addition to alloy pedals.
The common LBX, which is predicated on the identical platform because the Toyota Yaris Cross, is ready to go on sale in Australia within the first half of 2024 exclusively with hybrid power.
MORE: Everything Lexus LBX
