The new Lexus RZ made its world premiere in Brussels. The battery electric luxury SUV benefits from comprehensive revisions that take the driving experience to a higher level, introducing innovative technologies that deliver more power, enhanced control and deeper driver engagement and rewards.

The RZ was launched in 2023 as Lexus’ first model constructed on a dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV) global architecture platform. It offered a new driving experience and design made possible by electrification technology. In 2024, the range was extended with the introduction of a front-wheel drive model, responding to customer demand.

Development of the new RZ focused on four key pillars: driving pleasure; driving range and battery charging; performance; and design.

The technical innovations are led by the first application of Lexus’ steer-by-wire system. This provides a new driving experience with smooth, easy and more intuitive operation, particularly when enjoying winding roads. It is also tuned for responsiveness and driver feedback that is free from unwelcome vibrations. To ensure the desired qualities of the Lexus Driving Signature were achieved, the car underwent extensive development at Lexus’ Shimoyama test center in Japan.

The new model range also brings F SPORT performance and style to the RZ for the first time. The all-wheel drive RZ 550e is the most powerful RZ and offers a new BEV driving experience with Lexus’ Interactive Manual Drive, an electronic system that provides virtual manual gear shifting.

Comprehensive changes to the BEV system, including revisions to the lithium-ion battery for high output and capacity and an evolution of Lexus’ eAxle, allow for an expected increase in driving range of up to 100km (depending on the model and final homologation).

In addition, battery charging time will be quicker, aided by the adoption of a new battery pre-conditioning system and 22 kW AC onboard charger.

The global reveal paves the way for the new RZ’s European market introduction from autumn 2025.

Completely revised BEV syste The RZ’s battery electric system has undergone complete revision, with a focus on raising the quality of both practicality and driving pleasure. 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 77.0 kWh.

The performance of the high-output lithium-ion battery has been enhanced by improving and increasing the number of battery cells. In turn, this enables higher output from the eAxle’s electric motor. For the customer, this brings not only improved full-throttle acceleration and top speed performance, but it also contributes to a more exhilarating and responsive drive in the mid-range.

High power performance is further supported by the adoption of water cooling for the battery and BEV system.

Combining the high-output battery and eAxle with different systems has produced an RZ range with three different power options: 224 DIN hp/165 kW in the RZ 350e; 380 DIN hp/280 kW in the RZ 500e; and 408 DIN hp/300 kW in the RZ 550e F SPORT.

In addition, there is a doubling in the towing capacity of the all-wheel drive RZ, which can now pull braked loads of up to 1,500 kg.

Increased driving range. The technical enhancements to the RZ’s powertrain yield a significant improvement in the driving range, notably the reduction of power losses in the eAxle, the increased battery capacity and optimization of the control systems.

Charging performance has also been enhanced, due to the increase in battery capacity, revisions to the battery pack structure and the adoption of a new 22 kW AC onboard charger, anticipating the wider provision of public infrastructure that supports faster charging.

Charging in low temperatures has been improved with a new battery pre-conditioning function. This optimizes the battery temperature before charging starts, eliminating delays. As a result, charging time should be reduced by around 30 minutes.

Steer-by-wire system. The new RZ is the first model to adopt Lexus’ new steer-by-wire system. This creates a new, intuitive and comfortable driving experience that seamlessly integrates driver and vehicle. It also transforms the traditional driver’s cockpit.

Instead of being completely round, the steering wheel is designed without the upper and lower sections so is almost rectangular in shape, with curved grips on the left and right sides. The design helps focus the driver’s attention on the road ahead and, being compact, it frees up more space around the knees and legs for easier entry and exit to the car.

The system operates in a range of approximately 200 degrees from neutral to full left or right lock. This gives the driver precise control and easy operation.

Also, with steering gear ratio dynamically adjusted according to vehicle speed, it provides easier maneuverability at low speeds; agility for smooth driving on winding roads; and a high level of stability in high-speed motorway driving.

Although there is no physical link between the steering wheel and the axles, the driver receives appropriate feedback communicated by electric signals, minimizing unpleasant vibrations.

An evolution of Lexus DIRECT4 drive control. As well as renewing the RZ’s BEV system, Lexus has revised the DIRECT4 vehicle motion control technology, a system unique to Lexus which enhances traction and stability performance on the all-wheel drive models.

At start-off and in straight-line acceleration, front/rear power distribution is controlled between 60:40 to 0:100 to suppress pitching and produce a direct acceleration feel. During cornering, the distribution ratio is optimised between 80:20 and 0:100, according to vehicle speed and steering angle, to match the driving conditions.

During turn-in, more power is directed 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 is a rewarding feel when cornering and precise line tracing.

The adoption of Lexus’ Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) contributes to a flatter, more comfortable ride, together with enhanced driving stability and emergency hazard avoidance handling.