It is happening – Lexus is starting the electrification of the lineup. The RZ is the first model that will be out, but it is not replacing the RX. This is not a surprise. As a member of the Toyota family, it was just a matter of time before the luxury electric SUV will follow the steps of the bZ4X. That will be the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e.
The company announced the SUV, but it is available only for pre-orders. So, the production didn’t start yet. Nevertheless, it will happen pretty soon and the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e will enter salons this year. Toyota developed the platform that will be used for the RZ SUV, bZ4X and Subaru Solterra. Of course, Lexus is more luxurious than the other two vehicles. We’ll see a unique approach and pretty aggressive styling. The first look is stunning. But, let’s wait and see if the production model brings any modifications.
What is more important is the powertrain. Instead of a petrol or a hybrid setup, the RZ introduces an all-electric drivetrain. The first details are not impressive, but the SUV could be available in multiple variants. The base one is pretty ordinary with 220 miles of range, 0-60 mph time around 5.5 seconds, and total power of 300 hp.
2023 Lexus RZ 450e Range and Specs
Fans weren’t waiting for too long from the first news about the electric SUV until its official unveiling. It all happened in 2022. Now, the production version of the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e is just around the corner. The first details say the SUV is going to deliver 308 hp and cover 225 miles. It is not too impressive. However, a two-motor configuration could fix the situation, but that is just speculation for now.
The prototype of the RZ can sprint 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds. The SUV we’ll get will be somewhere between 5-6 sec. The Direct4 system is the improved variant of the AWD Lexus and Toyota are using. The company said a lot about batteries, but not recharge times. Those systems are still under development and Toyota wants to speed them up before offering the recharging stations to buyers.
Aggressive Styling, Futuristic Interior
The first thing that should impress you is the look of the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e. The SUV brings an aggressive appearance with a unique front fascia and sloped rear end. It will cut some space in the back, though. But, thanks to the lack of a classic motor, owners can also use the “frunk” – trunk under the hood, where usually engines lay.
Designers wanted to keep the RZ simple. It will come in a two-row layout, although some experts believe it will be a copy of the RX. There are no so many buttons on the dashboard. Everything is being controlled from the central display. The first impression is that the compact electric SUV offers a lot of space and a very cozy cabin thanks to upscale materials.
The RZ follows the styling language of the NX crossover with a 14-inch display at the central console. Voice commands are upgraded. The SUV also features the HUD, but it can be an option for higher trim levels. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa are confirmed. We’ll see how far Lexus will go with the autonomous drive. This technology evolves every day and the company will be ready to install the latest software right before the production start.
Trim Levels and F Sport
The company is not announcing which grades the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e is going to use. Well, the SUV is new in every way. Plus, we still don’t know what features are available for electric vehicle. Speculating about grades and options is pretty hard. But, you can expect the RZ to get the F Sport version. Even more eye-catching looks and improved handling are what we get from such upgrades on conventional drivetrains. Again, the EV system is new and it is still unknown how the F Sport package can work with it.
2023 Lexus RZ 450e Release Date and Price
The RZ is announced as the 2023 YM. So, we can expect it in the next few months. The complete offer and pricing list will be out at once and only some beefed-up versions can be left for 2024 or 2025. Experts believe that the price of the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e starts from $55,000. The F Sport might add around $5k.