More range and improved efficiency from refreshed Lexus RZ

Lexus has announced a refreshed fully-electric RZ range, featuring a number of styling, charging and performance improvements.

All elements of the SUV’s powertrain have been revised for greater performance and efficiency, including the introduction of a new high-capacity 77kWh lithium-ion battery pack and revised eAxles with reduced losses and higher output.

There is also a new 22kW onboard AC charger, replacing the 11kW unit in the outgoing model.

This means it takes three-and-a-half hours to charge from empty to full on an appropriate AC charger, while its 150kW on-board DC charger sees it take 30 minutes to go from 10% to 80% capacity.

WLTP ranges range from 353 miles for the entry RZ 350e model (58 miles more than its predecessor, to 280 miles for the performance-focused RZ 550 AWD.

The new model range comprises RZ 350e with front-wheel drive, RZ 500e with all-wheel drive and the RZ 550e F Sport with all-wheel drive.

The RZ F Sport also makes the debut of Lexus’s Interactive Manual Drive, a virtual gearshift system that replicates the performance, sound and feel of a manual transmission in a fully-electric vehicle.

Lexus has also introduced a range of measures to improve refinement and reduce exterior noise, including a new floor silencer behind the rear seats and the use of a new high-damping adhesive to reduce vibrations.

Vibration from the powertrain has been reduced with a new motor mount design with high damping characteristics.

In the UK, the new RZ range will be available in five equipment grades, all benefiting from new technology features, sustainable and leather-alternative upholsteries and the LexusLink multimedia system.

These are Premium, Premium Plus, Takumi, F Sport and F Sport Takumi.

UK sales will be open later this year, with customer deliveries from early 2026.

The new RZ is part of a Lexus BEV programme that is delivering three model reveals by March 2026, including the all-new ES saloon and an all-new model, details of which will be announced later.