LEGO Mario Kart: Mario's Standard Kart Unveiled

The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, now available for preorder, is a set that appeals to builders of all levels. Casual enthusiasts will be drawn to its vibrant primary colors and the large, chunky pieces that make it a crowd-pleaser. Meanwhile, seasoned LEGO builders will appreciate the intricate construction of the Kart and the thoughtful design choice to print all visual details directly onto the bricks, eliminating the need for stickers.

LEGO Mario Kart – Mario & Standard Kart

Priced at $169.99 at the LEGO Store, the set, officially known as LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, is part of the broader LEGO Mario universe. This suggests the potential for more expansive Kart sets in the future. While smaller playset-scaled Kart sets are available (see at Amazon), there's certainly a market for larger sets featuring characters like Luigi in a Sports Coupe or Princess Peach on a Cat Cruiser.

We Build LEGO Mario Kart - Mario and Standard Kart

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Divided into 17 bags, the set comprises two distinct builds. The first is the Standard Kart, which starts with a LEGO Technic mesh secured by pins and reinforced with bricks to form the Kart's floorboard. The body shell, including rockets/exhaust pipes, side panels, and the steering mechanism, is attached using rods and clamps. The steering mechanism is particularly noteworthy, as it integrates form and function seamlessly. It connects to the front of the set via clamps and folds onto the hood like a storm door on a hinge, allowing the front wheels to turn with the steering wheel.

The Kart's construction is more intricate than it appears, involving many small steps that contribute to its overall sophisticated yet whimsical look.

After completing the Kart, you move on to building Mario, following a similar process to The Mighty Bowser set from three years ago. You start with the torso, using ball-and-socket connections, then add the legs, arms, and finally the head and hat. The hat, with its bent appearance, is the most complex part of the build, requiring two smaller builds attached to the top of Mario's head.

Building Mario allows for a deeper appreciation of his details, like the hair under his hat, the markings on his gloves, and the rolled-up cuffs on his jeans. This experience is akin to piecing together a jigsaw puzzle of a famous painting, where you notice subtle elements that enhance the whole.

Unfortunately, Mario cannot be detached from the Kart; his torso is anchored directly onto a gray plate attached to the Kart's seat. While this might be frustrating, it's understandable given the potential demand for a standalone, fully articulable Mario figure. However, many LEGO enthusiasts might see this as a challenge for a DIY project.

The finished product is stunning. The Kart can be mounted on a buildable stand that tilts and rotates, allowing for dynamic posing. Whether simulating an uphill climb, a downhill race, or a banked turn, the flexibility adds to the set's appeal. I've posed my Mario to grip the steering wheel with one hand while pumping the air with the other, almost hearing his iconic "Whoo-hoo!"

If this is the direction LEGO is heading, it's a promising one. The Mario & Standard Kart set joins the ranks of impressive Mario-themed sets like The Mighty Bowser from 2022 and The Piranha Plant from 2003, offering a perfect balance of build quality and visual appeal. More large-scale replicas of Mario iconography are eagerly anticipated.

LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, Set #72037, is priced at $169.99 and comprises 1972 pieces. It will be available exclusively at the LEGO Store starting May 15. Preorder now.