Fun and performance

Test drives of the LBX Morizo RR will be available at Lexus dealerships in January with deliveries to Kiwi customers starting in February.

Andrew Davis, vice-president of Lexus NZ, says the new model, which starts at $89,900 plus on-road costs, is the outcome of the marque jumping into compact SUV territory.

“While the Morizo RR is focused on fun and performance, it hasn’t forgotten its Lexus roots,” he adds. 

“The brand’s signature quietness and comfort levels have also been preserved through extensive noise and vibration suppression measures, even during spirited driving.”

The car’s 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine is matched to an eight-speed direct shift automatic transmission, which punches “well above” its weight class with 206kW of power and 390Nm of torque.

The model also features an electronically controlled full-time all-wheel drive (AWD) system. 

Pressing the AWD modes switch locks the system into 50-50 AWD, equalising traction on all four wheels. Front and rear Torsen limited slip-differentials add to the level of dynamic performance.