By Otsile Kadiege

Last year, Lexus took the veils off an all-new compact SUV called LBX. Now there’s a hotter version of the newcomer called the LBX Morizo RR Concept and it’s packing some heat under its bonnet, and it’s sourced from the updated Toyota GR Yaris.

Performance

Most of us know by now that Lexus is the luxury arm of Toyota. So, Lexus went knocking on the parent company’s door for a potent engine and they were given one from the recently updated GR Yaris by “Morizo” – Toyota Motor Corporation Chairman and Master Driver Akio Toyoda.

The powerplant is a 1.6-litre three-cylinder petrol engine developing 224kW/400Nm and is paired with an eight-speed torque converter “Direct Auto Transmission”. It sends all its power through an  electronically controlled full-time all-wheel drive system. This being a concept, Lexus hasn’t shared its claimed zero to 100km/h sprint time.

Other technical highlights include MacPherson strut and Double wishbone suspension at the front and rear respectively, and ventilated 18-inch disc brakes at the front and 16-inches at the rear.

Sporty exterior

In keeping with the theme of the Lexus and Toyota Gazoo Racing presence at the exhibition, the concept has been customised with unique details. Morizo’s signature yellow colour features in the plated moulding of the unified spindle grille, the brake callipers and the seat-belts, which carry the Morizo RR logo. Other features include sports seats, alloy pedals, 19-inch (235/45R19) wheels and coloured wheel arch and rocker mouldings.