The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, now available for preorder, is a build that captivates both novice and seasoned LEGO enthusiasts. Casual builders will enjoy the set's vibrant primary colors and its large, chunky pieces, making it an instant hit. Meanwhile, experienced builders will appreciate the detailed construction of the Kart and the absence of stickers; all visual elements are printed directly onto the bricks, enhancing the overall aesthetic and quality.
Out May 15### LEGO Mario Kart – Mario & Standard Kart
8$169.99 at LEGO StoreThe new set, officially named LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, signifies its place within the broader LEGO Mario series. 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 clearly a demand for larger models like a 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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Comprising 17 bags, the Mario & Standard Kart set involves two distinct builds. The first is the Standard Kart, where you assemble a LEGO Technic mesh, secured by pins and reinforced with bricks, to create the Kart's floorboard. The body shell components, including rockets/exhaust pipes, side panels, and the steering mechanism, are then attached using rods and clamps.
Notably, the steering mechanism is a highlight, seamlessly blending form and function. It attaches to the front of the set with clamps and folds onto the hood like a hinged storm door. When you turn the steering wheel, the front wheels respond accordingly, adding a realistic touch to the build.
Despite its seemingly simple appearance, the Kart's construction is intricate, requiring numerous small steps to achieve the final, impressive result. This complexity adds a layer of sophistication to the build, juxtaposed with its playful and whimsical design.
Following the Kart, you build Mario, using a construction method similar to that of The Mighty Bowser from three years ago. You start with the torso, utilizing ball-and-socket connections, then attach the legs, arms, and finally the head and hat. The hat, with its bent shape, is the most intricate part, requiring two smaller builds to achieve its iconic look.
Building Mario allows you to appreciate the finer details, such as the hair peeking out from under his hat, the markings on his gloves, and the rolled-up cuffs of his jeans. This experience is akin to piecing together a jigsaw puzzle of a famous painting, where you notice subtle elements that contribute to the overall image.
Unfortunately, Mario cannot be detached from the Kart; his torso is directly anchored to a gray plate that connects to the Kart's seat. While this is a limitation, it's understandable given the potential market demand for a standalone, fully articulable Mario figure. Enthusiasts might find ways to modify the model for independent display, perhaps as a fun DIY project.
Nevertheless, the final product is visually stunning. The Kart sits on a buildable stand that can be tilted and rotated, allowing for dynamic posing—whether going uphill, downhill, or into a banked turn. I enjoy posing Mario with one hand on the steering wheel and the other pumping the air, almost hearing his signature "Whoo-hoo!"
If this is the direction LEGO is heading, it's a promising one. Over the past three years, Mario-themed sets like The Mighty Bowser (2022) and The Piranha Plant (2003) have been standout successes. The Mario & Standard Kart continues this trend, striking a perfect balance between build quality and visual appeal. The more large-scale replicas of Mario iconography we see, the better.
LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, Set #72037, retails for $169.99 and consists of 1972 pieces. It will be available exclusively at the LEGO Store starting May 15. Preorder now.
