The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, now available for preorder, is a standout build that appeals to fans of all ages and skill levels. Casual builders will love its vibrant primary colors and oversized, easy-to-handle pieces—making it an instant hit at any gathering. Meanwhile, seasoned LEGO enthusiasts will appreciate the set’s intricate design and premium finish, especially the fact that all decorative elements are printed directly onto the bricks, eliminating the need for stickers entirely.
Releases May 15
LEGO Mario Kart – Mario & Standard Kart
$169.99 at LEGO Store
Officially titled LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, this set marks the debut of a new sub-theme within the broader LEGO Mario universe. Given its impressive scale and detail, it opens the door for future large-scale Kart builds—could a Luigi in a Sports Coupe or Princess Peach on a Cat Cruiser be next? While smaller Kart playsets exist, there's clearly demand for more models of this size and sophistication.
We Build LEGO Mario Kart – Mario and Standard Kart
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Split across 17 numbered bags, the set comprises two main builds: the Standard Kart and LEGO Mario. The Kart construction begins with a sturdy LEGO Technic base frame, assembled using pins and reinforced with bricks to form a solid chassis. From there, you attach the body panels, exhaust pipes (designed to resemble rockets), side elements, and the functional steering system—which also serves as the front facade of the vehicle.
The steering mechanism is a highlight of the build. One end connects to the front of the Kart via clamps, then folds over the hood like a hinged door. When you turn the steering wheel, the entire front assembly pivots, allowing the wheels to turn in sync—a clever blend of form and function.
Despite its playful appearance, the build process is surprisingly detailed. What looks like a simple model from afar is actually the result of numerous small, precise steps that collectively create a richly detailed final product. It’s a charming contrast—whimsical in theme, yet sophisticated in execution.
After completing the Kart, you move on to building Mario. The process mirrors that of The Mighty Bowser set from 2022: start with the torso, which features ball-and-socket joints for dynamic posing. Then attach the legs, arms, and finally the head and hat. The hat itself is the most complex part, made up of two smaller sub-assemblies that give it Mario’s signature curved shape.
Building Mario offers a unique experience—you begin to notice subtle design choices that bring the character to life: the strands of hair peeking out from under his cap, the white markings on his gloves, the rolled cuffs on his overalls. Much like assembling a detailed jigsaw puzzle of a famous painting, constructing Mario in LEGO form reveals nuances you might otherwise overlook.
One limitation: Mario cannot be removed from the Kart. His torso connects directly to a gray mounting plate fixed to the seat, meaning he’s permanently seated. While this is disappointing for those hoping to display Mario separately, it’s a practical decision—LEGO and Nintendo are unlikely to release a fully articulated, standalone Mario figure without a premium price tag or exclusive release.
That said, the LEGO community is nothing short of inventive. Expect countless fan-made modifications that allow Mario to stand independently. For now, though, this setup remains official—and perhaps a perfect weekend DIY challenge for creative builders.
Once completed, the model shines. The Kart sits on a robust, adjustable display stand that allows for 360-degree rotation and tilt, letting you position it as if speeding uphill, drifting through a curve, or racing downhill. Pose Mario gripping the wheel with one hand and celebrating with the other, and you can almost hear his iconic “Whoo-hoo!”
If this is the future of LEGO Mario, count us in. The past few years have seen some of LEGO’s most impressive sets come from this theme—The Mighty Bowser (2022), Piranha Plant (2023), and now Mario & Standard Kart. This latest release matches their high standard, blending excellent build quality with eye-catching presentation. The more large-scale tributes to Mario’s world we get, the better.
LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart (Set #72037) features 1,972 pieces and retails for $169.99. It launches exclusively at the LEGO Store on May 15.
[ttpp]Preorder now[ttpp] to secure yours before it races out of stock.
