The Lexus LBX Morizo RR - a fearsome, high-riding hot hatch that could be destined for dealerships headlined a wave of potent new crossovers at Japan's premier tuning show, Tokyo Auto Salon.
It swaps the LBX's economy-minded 134bhp hybrid powertrain for the 1.6-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine from the Toyota GR Yaris hot hatch. Mated to a new eight-speed automatic gearbox, it sends 300bhp and 295lb ft to all four wheels.
The LBX's suspension has also been reworked. The crossover now rides 10mm lower and its wheels are 20mm further apart. It sits on wider tyres than the regular LBX too - all in a bid to improve the car's dynamic credentials.
Revised aerodynamics give the LBX a more aggressive look that, says Lexus, is inspired by air racing. This is complemented by yellow accents, which, like the car's name, are a nod to Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda, who uses yellow as a signature colour for his racing alter ego, Morizo.
This story is from the January 24, 2024 edition of Autocar UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the January 24, 2024 edition of Autocar UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
MCLAREN ARTURA
Finally, sunshine after the rain - but not before some of it got inside our supercar
AUDI S3 SALOON
Warmed-up version of A3 sets out stall with more power and RS3-spec driveline tech
MERCEDES-BENZ CLE CABRIOLET
Convertible follows coupé to complete newly consolidated two-door range
AUDI A3 SPORTBACK
Four years later, Audi moves to address criticisms of its swanky family hatchback
PORSCHE MACAN ELECTRIC
New platform, different motive power, more weight: can the electric version really behave like a Macan should?
DACIA DUSTER
With a more sophisticated platform, design-savvy look and fresh tech, has this all-new version lost sight of the model's value appeal?
Car clubs at mercy of insurers
Soaring insurance costs now pose an 'existential threat' to community car sharing
Vauxhall reinvents the Grandland
New version is bigger, sleeker and available as a 435-mile EV, mild hybrid and PHEV
Volvo on the cusp of a production revolution
Radical new mega-casting production method will cut complexity while boosting flexibility
Alfa to politicians: forget car names and save industry
Boss Imparato speaks out after minister compels Milano rebrand