The Lexus RZ 450E Reveals Its Secrets

After the UX 300e, Lexus is equipping itself with a second electric vehicle, the RZ 450e. This model will be launched at the end of the year.

In terms of style, the RZ remains faithful to the concept presented at the end of 2021. The sharp angles and numerous body creases are typical of Lexus design. The solid grille also evokes other models of the Japanese brand through its shapes. The steeply inclined roofline, the two-part spoiler, and the wave formed by the side line at the rear give the vehicle a dynamic look, which measures still 4.80 meters in length.

Inside, one element immediately draws attention: the steering wheel. Its unusual shape vaguely resembles Tesla’s Yoke. The driver will almost feel like they are at the helm of a spaceship. This small eccentricity, which will not be on all versions, adds character to an otherwise quite classic dashboard. The central 14-inch screen provides access to the numerous features of the new Lexus Link multimedia system.

The butterfly-shaped Steer-by-Wire steering wheel is connected to an electronic steering system.

Two electric motors for a combined power of 313 hp

The RZ is Lexus’s first 100% electric model based on a dedicated electric platform. This platform is already the basis for the Toyota bZ4X and its close cousin, the Subaru Solterra. There is also quite an evident family resemblance between these two models and the new Lexus.

The Japanese SUV features two motors—one on each axle—delivering a combined power of 313 hp. The new DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system manages to distribute power optimally across the four wheels. Lexus also adopted the electronic steering from the Toyota bZ4X. With this system, the connection between the steering wheel and the wheels is no longer via a traditional steering column but through electronic sensors. “The result is an even more immediate response and more precise steering control,” Lexus assures. Performance-wise, 0 to 100 km/h takes 5.6 seconds, and the top speed peaks at 160 km/h.

The Lexus 450e bears a slight resemblance to the Toyota bZ4X.

Goal of 400 km of range

The RZ 450e is equipped with a 71.4 kWh battery, which supposedly retains 90% of its capacity after 10 years of driving. At this stage, Lexus cannot specify the charging time and exact range. However, the Japanese company estimates that the RZ will limit its consumption to 18 kWh/100 km and will be able to travel 400 km on a single charge (WLTP mixed cycle).

The Japanese SUV can also be fitted with a panoramic roof with electronic transparency adjustment, as well as a radiation-style heater that is claimed to be particularly efficient and energy-saving. Furthermore, the RZ innovates with an electronic door opening system linked to the blind-spot monitor. This device is designed to prevent collisions with cyclists.

So far, Lexus’s push into the electric market has been somewhat timid. The brand offers a “zero emission” version of the UX, but it remains relatively discreet. Lexus probably hopes to do better with the RZ 450e, which will go on sale at the end of 2022.