Exclusive First Look: The Lexus RX Morizo RR Prototype Unveiled

The Lexus RX may soon introduce a high-performance Morizo RR variant, taking inspiration from its LBX sibling and paying homage to Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda, a renowned petrolhead.

A recent RX prototype was spotted by photographers, showcasing a more aggressive front-end design similar to the RX500h F Sport Performance flagship. The prototype also features widened fenders, dual exhaust outlets, and eye-catching red Brembo brakes with cross-drilled discs.

Equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV tires and sleek 15-spoke gloss-black alloy wheels, the RX Morizo RR is rumored to debut in 2028 with a powerful next-gen 2.0-liter turbocharged hybrid powertrain, boasting over 600 hp (447kW) from dual electric motors.

This new model will position Lexus as a competitor to the Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S, which boasts a 450kW/850Nm twin-turbo mild-hybrid 4.0-liter V8 setup.

The exact hybrid configuration for the RX Morizo RR remains unknown, with possibilities ranging from a traditional hybrid like the RX350h to a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system like the RX450h+. The current flagship RX500h F Sport Performance combines a 202kW/460Nm turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors for a total system output of 273kW and a 0-100km/h time of 6.2 seconds.

In addition to the potential new performance variant, the RX is expected to receive updates in 2027, likely focusing on interior enhancements to align with newer Lexus models like the ES and TZ.

Lexus typically redesigns its RX large SUV every five to seven years, making it time for a mid-life update. However, it’s unclear if Lexus will extend the current RX’s lifecycle to manage development costs during the shift towards new technologies and electric vehicles (EVs).

Last year, the RX was the second best-selling model for Lexus Australia, with 2126 deliveries, positioning it among the top five best-selling large luxury SUVs. Despite this, the smaller NX mid-size SUV outsold the RX by nearly three to one, with 6024 deliveries.

For more information on the Lexus RX lineup, explore the Lexus RX showroom.