Lexus turns to GR Yaris for hot LBX

New 300bhp Morizo RR packs the Toyota hot hatch's engine and gets go-faster aero

- CHARLIE MARTIN

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.