Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) and Lexus showcased their cutting-edge vehicles at Tokyo Auto Salon 2024, a premier automotive event held at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan, from January 12 to 14, 2024.
The central theme of this year’s TGR and Lexus exhibit is “MORIZO Garage,” reflecting Akio Toyoda’s, also known as Morizo, aspiration to foster a deeper passion for cars among enthusiasts and collectively shape the automotive future.
Under the umbrella of “New Models and Customization” and “Motorsports,” the exhibit unveiled three key concepts, featuring Morizo’s favorite car alongside vehicles and parts. The engaging program included talk sessions with drivers and development engineers, captivating demo runs, and various activities aimed at highlighting the allure of cars and the excitement of motorsports.
1. Evolved GR Yaris
TOYOTA GAZOO Racing unveiled the enhanced GR Yaris, marking its global debut at Tokyo Auto Salon 2024. Scheduled for release in Japan this spring through Toyota dealers nationwide, the GR Yaris stands as a symbol of TGR’s commitment to crafting high-performance, motorsports-inspired vehicles. Evolving from continuous participation in motorsports events since its launch in September 2020, the GR Yaris has undergone refinements based on real-world racing experiences. With a focus on driver feedback, TGR meticulously analyzed driving data, fine-tuned steering feel, and addressed performance issues, resulting in a vehicle designed to deliver exhilarating sporty driving experiences for a diverse range of drivers.
Driven by Morizo’s vision to extend the joy of driving to a wider audience, TGR introduced the 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission, enhancing the driving experience of the 1.6-liter inline 3-cylinder turbo engine paired with a 4WD drivetrain. This approach ensures that the essence of the GR Yaris appeals to a broad spectrum of drivers, fostering a love for sporty driving and motorsports.
TGR’s commitment to perfecting motorsports-bred cars remains unwavering, with plans to continue competing in races using the GR Yaris and incorporating insights from various drivers to further evolve this exceptional model.
2. RZ 450e Special Edition “F SPORT Performance”
Lexus is set to launch a limited-edition version of the RZ 450e, a battery electric vehicle (BEV), known as the “F SPORT Performance.” Limited to 100 units, interested buyers in Japan can participate in a purchasing lottery through Lexus dealers. Applications are open from January 12 to February 19, 2024, with sales negotiations commencing after winners are notified on or after February 22.
As Lexus’ first BEV-dedicated model, the RZ 450e exemplifies the brand’s unique driving signature and styling through electrification technology. Following the launch of the all-wheel-drive RZ 450e in March 2023 and the front-wheel-drive RZ 300e in November 2023, Lexus has expanded its BEV lineup to cater to diverse customer preferences.
The RZ 450e Special Edition “F SPORT Performance” is a culmination of the RZ SPORT CONCEPT showcased at the Tokyo Auto Salon in January 2023. Crafted for driving pleasure and customization unique to BEVs, this special edition contributes to the realization of a carbon-neutral society while emphasizing the joy of driving. Collaboration with air racing pilot Yoshihide Muroya and racing driver Masahiro Sasaki during development ensured optimal aerodynamics, driving performance, and a design rooted in functionality.
3. LBX MORIZO RR CONCEPT
Derived from the new Lexus LBX, the LBX MORIZO RR CONCEPT is a compact vehicle challenging conventional luxury car norms since its release in November 2023. Equipped with Lexus’ first 1.6-liter, inline 3-cylinder turbo engine, the G16E-GTS, this concept model refines fundamental vehicle elements, encouraging driver interaction and pursuing driving enjoyment.
Developed in collaboration with Chairman Akio Toyoda, also known as Morizo, the goal was to preserve Lexus’ high-quality driving performance and sophisticated design while creating a high-performance model that offers a unique driving experience. The turbocharged engine and full-time AWD deliver exhilarating power, supported by exclusive developments in packaging, body design, suspension, tires, AWD control, and Direct Shift 8AT automatic transmission. Leveraging air racing technology, the bumpers were shaped for superior aerodynamics and a styling that embodies pure driving performance.
In line with the TGR and Lexus exhibit theme, the LBX MORIZO RR CONCEPT underwent customization reflecting Morizo’s personal touch, incorporating his signature yellow color on the front “Unified Spindle,” brake calipers, and seatbelts. The result is a car embodying casual luxury, perfect for Morizo’s weekend adventures, much like a cherished pair of well-worn sneakers.
4. AE86 BEV Concept (Battery Electric Vehicle)
As part of Toyota’s commitment to carbon neutrality, the AE86 BEV Concept, introduced at Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, has evolved over the past year. The concept vehicle is set to face off against drifting driver Keiichi Tsuchiya’s AE86 Super Mame-go in a gymkhana showdown at the outdoor venue.
With a license plate for public road use, the AE86 BEV Concept aims to provide more options for customers seeking carbon-neutral driving experiences. A “Vintage Club by KINTO” project is planned for spring, offering customers an opportunity to drive the vehicle, with details to be announced separately by KINTO. This initiative aligns with Toyota’s vision to simultaneously address the carbon neutrality of new and existing vehicles, providing a holistic approach to sustainable mobility.
