Lexus and Toyota have been slower to the electric vehicle (EV) game than many competitors and have instead focused on hybrids and plug-in hybrids. However, things have changed, and both brands are now on board. Earlier this year, Toyota announced the bZ4X, a new EV developed in conjunction with Subaru. Now, it’s Lexus’ turn. Later this year, the automaker will release its first dedicated EV, the RZ 450e.
The RZ shares its underpinnings with the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra but takes the concept in a more upscale direction. It features sharper exterior styling, an airy and open interior, and modest range estimates. The crossover SUV will get a new infotainment system and a unique new all-wheel-drive (AWD) system that uses the dual-motor setup to offer power distribution between the two axles.
Since it shares a platform with the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra, the Lexus RZ is similar in size and proportion. Lexus says it focused on aerodynamics with the SUV’s shape and notes that the design helps generate downforce in the rear and reduces drag for better traction, range, and acceleration.
The RZ’s rear features horizontal lines and a design to highlight the SUV’s wide stance. A new Lexus logo spells out the brand name and replaces the company’s previous “L” logo. Five colors will be available, including two-tone paint options.
Lexus says the RZ’s interior is open and airy, with flowing lines that extend from the door panels onto the dash. Ultrasuede accents and woodgrain trim highlight the space. Lexus offers three interior color options: Grey/black, orange, and Palomino—a gold or yellow color often used to describe a horse. Ultrasuede is a partially bio-based material meant to approximate genuine animal hides. Lexus designed the RZ’s front cabin area with an eye on equestrian sports and said the setup mimics the reins used to control horses.
The RZ uses two electric motors, one on each axle. The front motor makes 150 kW of power, or 201 horsepower, and the rear motor produces 80 kW, or 107 hp. Lexus hasn’t done the math for us yet, but we expect combined output to land around 300 hp. Lexus estimates the range to reach 225 miles with the RZ’s 18-inch wheels.
Lexus talks about its new Direct4 AWD system, which works with electric motors to distribute power across the axles. The system can split power up to 100 percent front or back and offers 60/40 distributions for better handling. Lexus says the axle design uses compact components to save weight and provide more interior space.
Every RZ comes with the Lexus Safety System 3.0, with a few bonuses just for the brand’s first EV. The upgrades center on driver condition and awareness and include enhanced versions of adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. Each feature monitors the driver’s alertness levels to decide when to activate or alter each function’s behavior.
Lexus’ parent Toyota expended considerable effort revamping its infotainment system with a more intuitive interface and responsive design. Lexus says the RZ will get a new North American-designed interface that runs on a 14-inch touchscreen. It should feature over-the-air updates, voice controls, and various smartphone connectivity options, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The 2023 Lexus RZ will face off against the BMW iX, Tesla Model X, Cadillac Lyriq, and Audi E-tron.
Lexus is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of April 20, 2022, but it may have changed since that date. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker’s website or your local dealership.
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