The new Lexus RZ is being unveiled in Brussels today and should dot down here before year end. Further specification and pricing details will then be available.
The BEV incorporates new technologies that offer more power and enhanced control, along with added refinement.
RZ launched in 2023 as the first dedicated battery electric vehicle from Lexus on a global architecture platform.
Development of the new RZ focused on improving driving pleasure, range, battery charging, performance and design.
New to the range is the Lexus steer-by-wire system. It is tuned for responsiveness and driver feedback that is free from vibration.
The new model range also brings an F Sport model to RZ for the first time. The most powerful RZ, it also offers a new BEV driving experience with Lexus’ Interactive Manual Drive. This is an electronic system that provides virtual manual gear shifting.
Comprehensive changes to the BEV system, including revisions to the lithium-ion battery for higher output and capacity and an evolution of Lexus’ eAxle, mean an increase in driving range of up to 100km.
Moreover, battery charging will be quicker by about 30min, aided by the adoption of a new battery pre-conditioning system and a 22kW AC onboard charger. Charging times in cooler conditions should also improve.
The RZ’s battery electric system is new. Key changes include the introduction of a new eAxle with improved motor output and inverter efficiency, and a significant reduction in losses. There is also a new lithium-ion battery with capacity increased to 77kWh. It offers driving range of up to 575km in the case of the RZ350e.
This added capacity enables higher output from the eAxle’s electric motor, meaning improved acceleration and top speed and more gratifying midrange response.
The RZ350e has 165kW, the RZ 500e gets 280kW (0-100 in 4.6sec, 500km range) and there’s 300kW for the RZ 550e F Sport (4.4sec, 450km).
Towing capacity of the all-wheel drive RZ doubles, capable of hauling braked loads of up to 1500kg.
The new RZ is the first model to adopt Lexus’ steer-by-wire system. Not only does steering quality improve but the cockpit transforms with a new yoke-style wheel.
The upper and lower sections of the steering wheel are almost rectangular in shape, with curved grips on the left and right sides. Being compact, it frees up space around the knees and legs for easier entry and exit. The base model retains a round wheel.
The system operates in a range of 200 degrees from neutral to full left or right lock. This gives the driver more precise control and easier steering operation.
Moreover, steering gear ratio dynamically adjusts according to vehicle speed. Therefore, the RZ is easier to turn at low speeds, more agile on winding roads and offers better stability during motorway driving.
Lexus has also revised the Direct4 vehicle motion control technology, a system that enhances traction and stability performance on the AWD models.
At start-off and in acceleration, front/rear power distribution is controlled to suppress pitching and produce a direct acceleration feel. During cornering, the distribution ratio is optimised to match the driving conditions according to vehicle speed and steering wheel angle. At turn-in, more power goes to the front axle to achieve a smooth turn. When exiting a corner, torque distribution is in line with the load on each wheel, to maintain vehicle balance and allow for smooth acceleration. The result, says Lexus, is improved maintenance of the cornering line.
All Lexus models aim to deliver the Lexus Driving Signature in which the driver enjoys comfort, confidence and control at all times. To this end, RZ is now structurally more rigid for an improved steering response. Suspension tweaks promote better cornering, stability and ride comfort.
Cabin quietness is a key quality of Lexus BEVs. Extra soundproofing and sound absorption measures in the latest RZ contribute to improved on-road refinement.
A new Lexus feature is laser-processed graphics applied to Ultrasuede, a sustainable plant-based material.
Multi-colour ambient lighting also features a new, dynamic shadow effect, permitting changing patterns of light. And the panoramic roof now has dimming functionality.
The new RZ adds an F Sport model. It is the most powerful RZ model to date with 300kW, sport suspension and AWD. It also features Lexus Interactive Manual Drive with paddle shift controls for mock manual operation, as if it has an eight-speed transmission. Lexus replicates engine sounds, and the system operates with a rev limiter and shift guide meter so the driver has an idea of when to up- or downshift.
