The automotive universe is abuzz with excitement as Lexus charts a bold new direction, revealing that the beloved RC F model will take its final bow in 2025. But before fans allow sadness to creep in, let’s ignite the spark of optimism! A thrilling new chapter in high-performance vehicles is dawning, led by the electrifying LBX Morizo RR! This groundbreaking model honors Akio Toyoda’s spirited alter-ego, ‘Morizo,’ showcasing a stunning blend of innovation and exhilarating performance that has been meticulously crafted in collaboration with the legendary Toyota Gazoo Racing. By incorporating insights from the wildly popular GR Yaris and intertwining them with Lexus’s typically hybrid-focused small SUV, the LBX Morizo RR is set to deliver a driving experience that enthusiasts won’t want to miss.
At the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon, Gazoo Racing's chief engineer, Naohiko Saito, fervently stated, “This concept was inspired by Morizo San’s passion!” He continued, “He envisioned a sports car built entirely on our own terms—developed and produced right here in our factory. While we currently offer the GR86 and Supra, which are the result of partnerships, this time, we are diving deep into our motorsport expertise.” However, for fans in Europe, it appears there may be a wait ahead, as the LBX Morizo RR has yet to be confirmed for the European market—though there remains a tantalizing chance it could eventually find its way there. This announcement marks only the beginning of Lexus’s ambitious expedition forward.
But the excitement doesn’t end with the LBX Morizo RR; Lexus is gearing up to resurrect its prestigious F high-performance sub-brand with an exceptional V8-powered supercar that promises to redefine the segment! This groundbreaking model aims to homologate a new GT3-class racer for the World Endurance Championship. It epitomizes Gazoo Racing’s strategy of intertwining motorsport expertise with the design of future road-going vehicles. Saito affirmed, “Our philosophy relies heavily on lessons learned from motorsport, which requires close collaboration across our teams.” Expect a sneak preview of this supercar later this year, featuring an advanced V8 engine strategically positioned ahead of the driver and just behind the front axle to achieve ideal front-mid engine dynamics. Although it won’t directly replace the legendary LFA, it carries the spirit of that iconic model and is poised to challenge industry giants like Lamborghini, Ferrari, and Maserati.
In an exciting twist, prototypes have already been spotted in rigorous testing at the N ü rburgring, flaunting a remarkable aerodynamic design reminiscent of race-ready machines, complete with advanced composite glazing. This indicates that Lexus is likely committed to track testing for their new GT3 model before unveiling the production version to the public, aligning with Toyoda’s vision of adopting motorsport innovations for everyday driving experiences. Saito noted, “We face numerous challenges during racing, but those experiences are crucial in our quest to build better cars for the road.” These ambitious plans unveil a daring two-pronged strategy for Lexus's high-performance lineup, hinting at intricate collaborations with Gazoo Racing’s cutting-edge powertrains and chassis technologies across other models. This strategic approach positions Lexus to compete fiercely against the likes of Mercedes-AMG, Porsche, and BMW M, setting the stage for boundless opportunities for the brand.
Enthusiasts can speculate that Lexus will glean inspiration from the performance levels of flagship four-door models such as the BMW M5 and Audi RS 7, pondering the creation of a standout contender in today’s dynamic market. Previous endeavors, such as the GS F, have demonstrated that Lexus possesses the pedigree to thrive in the high-performance realm. Now more than ever, as the industry shifts towards hybrid powertrains, Lexus is ideally positioned to harness its advanced technology in this domain. Furthermore, with luxury SUVs claiming a significant share of global Lexus sales, high-end performance variants in this segment may also be on the drawing board, signaling an exhilarating time ahead for fans of this prestigious marque.