You’ve probably seen pictures of the new “evolved” GR Yaris and two things stood out – the new dashboard design and the new optional automatic transmission. If you’re not a fan of that new dashboard, but don’t mind an automatic, Lexus has an alternative with the same GR Yaris engine, albeit only a concept for now – the Lexus LBX Morizo RR concept.
Developed with the help of the “Master Driver” himself Akio Toyoda (aka “Morizo”), the Lexus LBX Morizo RR is powered by the G16-GTS inline-3 turbocharged engine that outputs 305 hp (metric) and 400 Nm. While the 8-speed direct shift automatic transmission may seem a little out of place in the new GR Yaris, it is perfectly at home in the LBX Morizo RR.
Power is sent to all four wheels and the car sits on a Macpherson strut suspension setup up front and a double wishbone setup at the back. Although sharing underpinnings and a powertrain with a rather wild model from Toyota, Lexus assures that the LBX Morizo RR Concept “preserves the essential high-quality driving experience and sophisticated design that are intrinsic to the [Lexus] brand”.
Highlights of the Lexus LBX Morrizo RR include sports seats, alloy pedals and coloured wheel arch and rocker mouldings. The exterior is adorned with a colour theme that Malaysians may find rather familiar, but not, it is not what you think it is. The yellow accents on this Morizo LBX are the Morizo signature yellow that can be seen in the plated moulding of the unified spindle grille, the brake callipers and the seatbelts.
RELATED: Lexus LBX unveiled – Mild-hybrid only, based on Yaris Cross
Completing the look of the Morizo LBX is a set of exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels that are wrapped in a set of 235/45R19 tyres. Behind the wheels are 18-inch ventilated disc brakes at the front and 16-inch disc brakes at the back.
Only a concept for now, a “luxury GR Yaris” with an automatic transmission sounds like a pretty fun car to have. What are your thoughts on the Lexus LBX Morizo RR Concept?
RELATED: New Toyota GR Yaris debuts with 8-speed automatic gearbox – 304hp, 400Nm
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