Lexus has unveiled a high-performance concept car based on the LBX compact SUV at the Tokyo motor show. Dubbed the Morizo RR Concept, the car uses a similar powertrain to sister company Toyota's GR Yaris hot hatchback, except the Lexus gets an even meatier 305hp.
A posh GR Yaris?
Inspired by Toyota Motor Corporation's chairman and master driver, Akio Toyoda, also known as Morizo, the Morizo RR Concept has been built to add "another dimension to the LBX". Lexus says the project used direct input from the boss, who wanted a small 'everyday' Lexus that would be fun to drive, without having too large a footprint.
Like the GR Yaris, the LBX Morizo RR gets a turbocharged and intercooled 1.6-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine, but the Lexus' motor churns out 305hp. That is distributed between all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox, which should provide a notable improvement in performance, although Lexus has not announced any official figures.
But Lexus has done more than just slotting a new engine under the bonnet. The company also says "all key elements of the car have been honed for performance", with the packaging, suspension and tyres all modified to make the car faster.
Signature styling
As well as changing the car's oily parts, Lexus has also worked hard on the Morizo RR Concept's body, fitting an almost entirely new front end. In fact, Lexus says the bodywork is a key part of the Morizo RR Concept's performance credentials, with aerodynamic tweaks apparently taken from the world of high-speed air racing.
Some unique styling details have been applied, too, with Toyoda's signature yellow colour appearing at the top of the grille, as well as on the brake callipers and the seatbelts. The Morizo RR Concept is also marked out by its darkened 19-inch alloy wheels, and the whole car sits 10mm lower than the standard LBX.
Sibling rivalry
Given the similarities between the LBX Morizo RR Concept and the GR Yaris, it's interesting to see both cars on display in Tokyo. The revamped GR Yaris has been given a power boost, although its 280hp output is still behind that of the Lexus, and the option of either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
However, while it's unclear whether the LBX Morizo RR Concept will become a production reality - Lexus has not confirmed one way or the other - the GR Yaris is expected to go on sale in the spring.