Toyota was fortunate sufficient to offer U.S. consumers the GR Corolla. It’s the textbook definition of a sizzling hatch, and we like it. 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 quite keep off our shores, just like the just lately launched Yaris-based crossover the Lexus LBX.
Fortunately, although, Toyota and Lexus nonetheless have some lovers 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 along side Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda, a widely known fanatic who’s also called “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 embrace “developments that lined the automobile’s packaging, physique, suspension, tires, AWD management,” although Lexus didn’t precisely say what these had 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 shops because the GR Yaris. Although no photos of the inside had been proven, it’s stated that it’s outfitted 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 ultimately although. For it to come back right here could 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 may be within the playing cards for Lexus. Till any choice is made we’ll simply maintain watching from afar and hope for the perfect.