300hp+ Lexus RZ BEV breaks cover, boasts over 400km range

Lexus has finally unveiled its first battery electric vehicle, the 2023 RZ 450e, revealing more details about the highly anticipated fully-electric SUV from Toyota’s luxury division.

In a recent press release, Lexus reveals that the all-new electric SUV will be powered by two motors, working in conjunction with a 71.4kWh battery. The one at the front end makes a hair over 200 horses while the one at the rear puts out a little over 100 for a combined maximum power output of more than 300 horsepower.

Compared to its cousin, the Toyota bZ4X, or its distant relative, the Subaru Soltera, the Lexus RZ 450e offers more power. Toyota’s BEV packs 201 horses while Subaru’s take on an electrified SUV boasts 215 horses at best.

In terms of range, the Lexus RZ 450e is at par with the two abovementioned models with the US-spec BEV SUV clocking in at around 255 miles (410 kilometers) on a single charge.

Complementing the powerful electric motors and the decent EV range is a Lexus-branded all-wheel-drive system dubbed Direct4. According to the Nagoya-based car brand, the Direct4 all-wheel-drive system contributes to improved start-up acceleration, handling stability, and low power consumption.

Per Lexus, the Direct4 system allows the RZ 450e to deliver superior handling and stability in most driving conditions.

With Lexus being a luxury brand, it’s somewhat expected for the RZ 450e to offer upscale interior amenities. Its list of features includes a voice command-capable 14-inch infotainment system, a panoramic roof equipped with dimming function, radiant heaters to comfortably warm the passenger’s knees, seats finished with Ultrasuede (an upholstery material made using 30 percent bio-based sustainable materials), and an interior illumination technology that changes the shade of light projected on to the door trim ornament when the doors are opened and closed.

Similarly, Lexus also gave the RZ 450e a relatively strong suite of advanced safety technologies and driving nannies. These include standard pre-collision system, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert, and emergency driving stop system, among others.

“We believe that Lexus, an established luxury automaker, should continue pursuing the creation of exciting cars while respecting nature and the global environment to achieve a carbon-neutral society. The RZ has been developed with the aim of creating a uniquely Lexus BEV that feels secure to ride in, is pleasing to the touch, and is exhilarating to drive. Direct4, the core technology of ‘Lexus Electrified,’ is an all-wheel-drive system that achieves quick and linear response according to driver input. We will continue to take on the challenge of providing customers with new experiences and a uniquely Lexus BEV driving experience,” said Lexus International Chief Engineer Takashi Watanabe.

The pricing for the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e is yet to be revealed but is expected to be announced soon as the BEV SUV is scheduled to go on sale towards the end of 2022.

Photos from Lexus

Also read: 

2022 Lexus NX ushers in brand’s next chapter

WATCH: Lexus kicks off ‘No Moment Too Big’ campaign for 2022 LX 600 SUV

Lexus shares images of BEV concept vehicle lineup