Meet the Lexus RZ 450e, a brand-new all-electric crossover SUV set to debut in 2023. While Toyota’s luxury brand has long been a leader in electrification with hybrid vehicles, the RZ will be the brand’s first dedicated EV, as well as the first all-electric Lexus model in North America.
The BZ shares most of its underbody e-TNGA platform DNA with the newly disclosed Toyota BZ4X and Subaru Solterra, but it has its own distinct appearance, accessories, and, in certain cases, technology.
The compact five-seat SUV is equipped with a 71.4-kWh battery pack and two electric motors, one of which is capable of 150 kW and the other of which is capable of 80 kW.
This adds up to about 308 horsepower and 321 pound-feet of torque, which is a significant improvement over the BZ4X and Solterra.
Lexus claims a disappointing maximum estimated driving range of up to 225 miles on 18-inch tyres, which is equivalent to what Toyota and Subaru’s all-wheel-drive models manage with significantly less power.
The RZ 450e is also available with all-wheel drive, which is now known as Direct4 for Lexus, but it looks to be the same through-the-road technology seen in its platform-mates.
Direct4’s front-to-rear power distribution is normally between 60/40 and 40/60, but the hardware may dynamically send torque to the rear while cornering and when slip is detected for sharper handling.
To read our blog on “Lexus unveils Electrified Sport, a 700-kilometer-range supercar,” click here.
