Toyota was fortunate sufficient to present U.S. patrons the GR Corolla. It’s the textbook definition of a sizzling hatch, and we find it irresistible. Sadly, there are nonetheless some enjoyable merchandise that we don’t get, just like the GR Yaris itself, and a few stuff that some would somewhat keep off our shores, just like the lately launched Yaris-based crossover the Lexus LBX.
Fortunately, although, Toyota and Lexus nonetheless have some fanatics on the helm of issues. In an idea proven on the Tokyo Present, they’ve gone and dropped the GR Yaris’ drivetrain into the LBX. Dubbed the LBX Morizo RR Idea, it was developed at the side of Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda, a well known fanatic who’s often known as “Morizo” and a grasp driver.
The LBX Morizo is actually only a GR Yaris crossover. The 1.6-liter 300-horsepower turbocharged I3 was dropped in and paired with an eight-speed automated and a full-time all-wheel drive system, although Lexus didn’t say whether or not or not the LBX had the identical restricted slip diffs because the GR Yaris. Different efficiency enhancements embody “developments that coated the car’s packaging, physique, suspension, tires, AWD management,” although Lexus didn’t precisely say what these have been.
Visually the LBX Morizo seems to be good. Up entrance it will get a novel fascia with bigger, blacked-out grille openings that includes yellow trim, yellow brake calipers set behind 19-inch wheels, distinctive rear bumper with diffuser and the identical twin exhaust retailers because the GR Yaris. Although no photos of the inside have been proven, it’s stated that it’s geared up with distinctive sport seats and alloy pedals.
The LBX Morizo is an idea for now, because the automaker hasn’t stated whether or not or not it has manufacturing plans. I wouldn’t be stunned to see this factor coming to market in Japan finally although. For it to come back right here is likely to be tough and would require the usual LBX to make an look first and sadly a sub UX sized crossover doesn’t appear to be one thing that might be within the playing cards for Lexus. Till any determination is made we’ll simply hold watching from afar and hope for the most effective.
