Lexus recently confirmed speculation that its GR Corolla powertrain-endowed LBX Morizo RR will be going into production, but only for the Japanese market for now.

Looking for your next new or used Porsche? Find it here with CARmag!

The model first made waves at the Tokyo Auto Salon in January 2024 and a few months later, the automaker has officially opened order books for the high-performance variant in Japan, with the official release slated for late August. Additionally, 100 units of the exclusive LBX Morizo RR “Bespoke Build” will be available through a lottery. Japanese customers can apply for the lottery at Lexus dealerships from July 18 to July 31, with winners to be notified by their respective dealerships.

Related: Lexus Peeks into its Next Gen Mobility at Milan Design Week Display

The sporty Lexus was developed in collaboration with master driver Akio Toyoda, known as Morizo, to embody the refined driving quality and sophisticated design that Lexus is known for. This model aims to enhance the connection between driver and vehicle, delivering an exhilarating driving experience. Under the bonnet is the same powertrain in the GR Corolla, which features a 1.6-litre turbo triple (G16E-GTS). Outputs are 224 kW and 400 N.m which means it can hurtle to 100 km/h from a standstill in 5.2 seconds. The vehicle also features the innovative Response-Enhancing Damping Structure (REDS) in the front lower arms, a world-first, which enhances responsiveness and control on various road surfaces.

For transmission, the LBX Morizo RR is equipped with either a Direct Shift 8AT or a 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT), the latter being a first for Lexus in Japan. Like its Toyota stablemates, these transmissions will be connected to the electronically controlled full-time AWD system.

Related: Custom Lexus GX ‘Overtrail’ Gains Raft of Off-road Upgrades

The exterior features exclusive front and rear bumpers, 19-inch forged wheels, and coloured arch and rocker mouldings that emphasize a low centre of gravity and wide stance. Inside, dedicated sports seats, aluminium pedals, and unique interior accents foster a seamless connection between the driver and the car, enhancing the driving experience.

The “Bespoke Build” program allows customers to personalize their vehicle with a wide range of options, including custom brake calipers in Morizo’s signature yellow. This program aims to create a vehicle that customers will love to drive on weekends, akin to a favourite pair of sneakers.

Kunihiko Endo, Chief Engineer for the LBX Morizo RR, shared his vision for the vehicle: “With LBX, we aimed to transcend traditional size hierarchies, offering a blend of casual luxury. The LBX Morizo RR was designed to bring joy to genuine car enthusiasts like Morizo, providing a driving experience that exceeds expectations.”

There is no likelihood that the South African market will be receiving an allocation since this is exclusive for the Japanese market at the moment.

Browse thousands of new and used cars here with CARmag!