Should Lexus Malaysia Bring In The LBX Morizo RR?

The Lexus LBX Morizo RR ditches the hybrid powertrain for a 3 1.6L turbo petrol motor.

Last week, Lexus launched the all-new LBX crossover in Malaysia. This hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) is the spiritual successor to the Lexus CT200h 5-door hatchback from the last decade and replaced the UX as the “starter” model for the brand.

However, what also happened back in Japan a couple of weeks ago was that the high-performance variant of the model was launched – the LBX Morizo RR. We wonder if Lexus Malaysia will introduce it as well.

The Lexus LBX Morizo RR was originally shown in concept form back at the Tokyo Auto Salon in 2024. At the event, few specifications were shared but Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda (whose track alter ego “Morizo” helps to develop the performance vehicle) mentioned that this was his favourite car.

Now that it has been confirmed for production, we can share a few official specifications of the LBX MORIZO RR starting with what was previously known – the engine. This version is powered by the 1.6L 3-cylinder turbocharged G16E-GTS that goes into the GR Yaris and GR Corolla.

In this application, the output is 300hp and 400Nm of torque, though in Australia it is downtuned to 276hp and 390Nm of torque. Just like the facelifted GR Yaris, the engine is available now with an automatic. In the LBX Morizo RR a Direct Shift 8AT is an option and a 6-speed manual transmission is also available. It should be noted that Lexus has sold a car with a 5-speed manual in the US before but they’ve since focused on automatics.

Besides the engine, Lexus engineers essentially redeveloped the entire platform to balance agility and power on this all-wheel drive model. The Lexus LBX Morizo RR features the world’s first Response-Enhancing Damping Structure in the front lower arms.

Aerodynamic performance has been enhanced with special bumpers and underbody cladding and this has the added benefit of better cooling.

While it’s probably the most dynamic Lexus vehicle you can buy today it also has that distinct Lexus quietness and refinement built in. Besides that the braking system has been enhanced to deal with the added power.

Besides that you get aluminium finished pedals inside, plus specially-designed front seats with better support. In Japan, 100 units of “Bespoke Build” models will be made through a lottery system. These cars will give customers a wide array of options including brake calipers in Morizo’s signature yellow as well as unique interior colour options.

While we don’t think any Bespoke Build models will come to Malaysia, selling the LBX Morizzo RR in Malaysia would be a great way to boost the Lexus brand appeal in Malaysia.