Lexus, a leader in luxury electrification since debuting the RX 400h in 2005, has continued its commitment to sustainable mobility. The company’s Lexus Electrified vision, announced in 2019, aims to achieve carbon neutrality while offering a diverse lineup of hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and battery-electric vehicles to accommodate various markets and consumer preferences.
First introduced in 2023, the RZ was Lexus’ initial model built on a dedicated battery-electric platform. The latest updates include a new front-wheel-drive variant and a reengineered battery system that enhances range and efficiency. Central to the RZ’s evolution is Lexus’ first steer-by-wire system, designed to provide intuitive and responsive handling, particularly on winding roads. Developed at the company’s Shimoyama test center in Japan, the system eliminates traditional mechanical linkages, replacing them with electronic controls that minimize vibrations while optimizing driver feedback.
The new lineup also welcomes an F SPORT variant, the RZ 550e, which boasts 408 DIN horsepower (300 kW) and Lexus’ first Interactive Manual Drive system. This innovation simulates the tactile engagement of a manual transmission, allowing drivers to shift virtual gears via paddle controls. Enhanced aerodynamics, sport-tuned suspension, and exclusive styling further distinguish the F SPORT model.
Beyond performance, Lexus has prioritized efficiency and usability. The vehicle’s lithium-ion battery capacity has been expanded to 77.0 kWh, contributing to an estimated increase in driving range of up to 100 kilometers. A 22 kW AC onboard charger and a battery pre-conditioning system enable faster charging, reducing wait times by approximately 30 minutes. Meanwhile, advancements in cooling systems and energy management have improved both high-speed performance and overall reliability.
Inside, Lexus has refined the cabin experience with enhanced soundproofing, a panoramic roof with dimming functionality, and ambient lighting featuring dynamic shadow effects. A newly developed Ultrasuede trim, made from sustainable plant-based materials, highlights the company’s focus on luxury and environmental consciousness.
With its blend of high-performance engineering and meticulous craftsmanship, the RZ aims to reaffirm Lexus’ standing in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market. The updated model is set to arrive in European markets in autumn 2025, marking a new chapter in the company’s pursuit of electrified excellence.
The automaker is doubling down on that signature serenity. Engineers have outfitted the model with an array of refinements designed to minimize noise and vibration, including a newly integrated floor silencer beneath the rear seats and enhanced soundproofing throughout the cabin. To combat road and wind noise, additional insulation has been applied to the tonneau cover, rear door trim, and load compartment. Further measures have been taken to suppress vibrations, ensuring that the RZ delivers an even more tranquil driving experience.
Lexus is introducing a new level of driver engagement with the F SPORT, which debuts the brand’s first Interactive Manual Drive system. Designed to offer a more immersive connection between driver and vehicle, the system allows precise control over power output via paddle shifters, simulating the experience of a manual transmission. The technology is further enhanced by real-time feedback through the throttle, as well as carefully tuned sounds and visual cues, all working in concert to create a heightened sense of responsiveness behind the wheel.