See all Motoring NewsThe Lexus RZ won't be the first electric Lexus - that accolade goes to the Lexus UX 300e on sale now – but it will be the first one to be built on a dedicated electric vehicle platform.
This new e-TNGA architecture is designed with efficiency in mind to help maximise battery range in every model that uses it.
In terms of shape, the RZ has plenty of unique Lexus design cues. Up front, there's a familiar Lexus-style pointy nose, although rather than having a grille like the firm's hybrid models, the RZ's nose is completely smooth. It's flanked by a pair of narrow LED headlights with stylised 'grilles' beneath, and the overall front-end design is somewhat inspired by the LFA supercar.
Sculpted body panels give the RZ a unique look, and it has stylised wheelarch cladding. At the back, the angular taillight units are connected by a red light strip that crosses the width of the tailgate - similar to the design seen on the latest Lexus NX – while a stylised diffuser and openings in the rear wheelarches are designed to improve aerodynamics. Also included are a pair of winglets at the top of the steeply raked tailgate, which channel airflow over the rear of the car to maximise efficiency.
Inside, there’s space for five, while a high centre console will divide the front seats. We've already been impressed by the infotainment set-up seen in the latest Lexus NX, which is a vast improvement on the previous generation, and it should deliver a user-friendly experience in the RZ, too. Meanwhile, an unusual ‘yoke’ steering wheel will be available from 2023.
Some technical information has been released about the Lexus RZ, and we know that it will feature a 71.4kWh battery, while a dual-motor set-up will provide four-wheel drive for high-spec variants with up to 313hp. Final figures have yet to be confirmed for power or performance, but a range of around 400km is being talked about.
Pricing has yet to be confirmed, but first deliveries are expected to start in Ireland before the end of 2022.