Lexus has announced some big upgrades for its flagship EV.
The formerly entry-grade RZ 450e has been replaced by the 500e, which now offers a benchmark 280kW of power – an increase of 50kW on its predecessor thanks to retuned front- and rear-axle electric motors.
A pacier headliner in the RZ 550e F Sport replaces the previously top-spec 450e Sports Luxury, delivering an additional 70kW for a new total output 300kW. It sprints from 0-100km/h in 4.4 seconds, 0.2 seconds faster than the 500e.
New sports car powered by a mega ute takes shape? New Lexus coupe rumoured to use hybrid power from Toyota Tundra or Tacoma pick-ups: report
Luxury SUV picks up 60km driving range plug-in hybrid: 2025 Lexus RX 450h+ PHEV confirmed to rival BMW X5 50e and Volkswagen Touareg R
Hardcore luxury off-roader confirmed! 2025 Lexus LX Overtrail joins the range of Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series-related Range Rover rival but will it score a hybrid?
To simulate the experience of a petrol engine, Lexus has installed a virtual eight-speed manual transmission that incorporates artificial gear shifts and engine noises for the driver, similar to what is offered on a Hyundai Ioniq 5 N or Kia EV6 GT.
The updated all-wheel drive platform now welcomes a bigger 76.7kWh lithium-ion battery too, up from 71.4kWh on its predecessor. As a result, Lexus said the driving range has improved by 14 per cent to 500km under the WLTP cycle on the 500e. The 550e F Sport, meanwhile, tops out at 450km.
Charging time is also down by up to 30 minutes, Lexus claims. The brand hasn’t outlined exact specifications yet, but the updated model is presumed to improve on the 150kW DC fast charging rate of its predecessor.
On the 550e F Sport, Lexus has introduced steer-by-wire technology, which replaces the traditional mechanical steering unit for an electronic system.
Lexus said it delivers 200 degrees of rotation on the new RZ, eliminating the need for a conventional steering wheel. The 550e F Sport adopts a yoke-style design instead.
Additionally, the 550e F Sport adds sports suspension, a unique lower bumper, brake ducts, rear spoiler and 20-inch alloy wheels with aero covers.
Inside, a dimmable, UV-resistant panoramic sunroof is now available. Lexus has improved cabin acoustics through additional sound-deadening materials and trims, which includes Lexus’ new synthetic suede fabric.
Lexus Australia will confirm the local line-up, specifications and pricing for the updated RZ closer to its launch in its home market of Japan later this year.
Pricing is expected to exceed the current RZ 450e Luxury’s entry price of $121,059, before on-road costs, which is $4,059 more than the incoming Cadillac Lyriq but $15,841 less than the larger BMW iX
