Lexus has unveiled the new RZ, a luxury battery-electric SUV, making its global premiere in Brussels, Belgium. This latest model features extensive enhancements that elevate the driving experience, incorporating cutting-edge technology to provide greater power, enhanced control, and a more engaging ride. These advancements are complemented by further refinement of the luxurious interior, ensuring a premium experience for drivers and passengers alike.
Since the launch of the RX 400h in 2005, Lexus has been at the forefront of electrification in the luxury automotive market. Guided by its Lexus Electrified vision, announced in 2019, the brand is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by offering a diverse range of electrified vehicle technologies, including battery electric (BEV), hybrid, and plug-in hybrid models.
The RZ, first introduced in 2023 as Lexus’s inaugural model built on a dedicated BEV platform, redefined the driving experience with its innovative design and technology. In 2024, the lineup was expanded to include a front-wheel-drive variant in response to customer demand.
The development of the new RZ was centered around four key pillars: driving pleasure, extended range and improved charging, enhanced performance, and sophisticated design.
Key innovations include the first-ever Lexus steer-by-wire system, which offers smooth and intuitive steering, particularly when tackling winding roads. Designed to be highly responsive while filtering out unnecessary vibrations, the system was fine-tuned at Lexus’s Shimoyama test facility in Japan.
For the first time, Lexus brings F Sport performance and styling to the RZ lineup with the new RZ 550e. This all-wheel-drive model delivers the highest power output in the series and introduces Lexus’s Interactive Manual Drive, an electronic system that enables virtual manual gear shifting for a more dynamic and engaging driving experience.
Lexus has made significant improvements to the RZ’s BEV system, including updates to the lithium-ion battery and eAxle technology. These changes allow for an expected increase in driving range of up to 100 km (60 miles) depending on the model. Battery charging has also been optimized, with a new pre-conditioning system and a 22kW AC onboard charger that significantly reduces charging times.
The RZ’s driving dynamics benefit from Lexus’s DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system, which intelligently adjusts front and rear power distribution for optimal traction and stability. At lower speeds, the system prioritizes agility, while at higher speeds, it enhances stability and control.
Lexus has also revised the suspension system, increased chassis rigidity, and improved noise suppression measures to deliver a quieter, smoother ride. Additional soundproofing materials and structural refinements ensure that the cabin remains serene, even at highway speeds.
The F Sport variant of the RZ features exclusive styling elements that enhance aerodynamics while making a bold visual statement. It includes a unique front bumper design, brake cooling ducts, a rear spoiler, and exclusive 20-inch aerodynamic wheels. The interior boasts an F Sport-exclusive black and dark gray theme with blue accent stitching, sport seats, aluminum pedals, and an advanced digital instrument display.
With its latest advancements, Lexus reinforces its commitment to delivering an electrified driving experience that balances performance, efficiency, and luxury. The new RZ range is set to arrive in the UK in the first quarter of 2026, with detailed specifications to be announced closer to the launch date. As Lexus continues to push the boundaries of electric vehicle innovation, the RZ stands as a testament to its dedication to driving excellence and sustainability.
