The 2023 Lexus RZ450e will be revealed soon. Lexus has just released one last teaser before the details and specs are available. This shot from the rear highlights the signature full-width rear LED taillight.
Although Lexus has made a few changes to this vehicle, it is still very similar to the Toyota BZ4X. We have seen teasers of RZ 450e.
These show it with a yoke-style steering wheel. Lexus also showed us an accurate view of the front, which revealed the absence of a large spindle grille.
What’s new for the 2023 Lexus RZ450e?
- Lexus’s first global EV model
- Sharing a platform with Subaru Solterra and Toyota bZ4X
- An electronic AWD system uses both the electric motors of the axles.
- Lexus claims a range of up to 225 miles.
- Near the end of 2022, this item will be on sale with a price tag of around $50,000
Design of 2023 Lexus RZ450e
The “Spindle Grille” design is a hallmark of Lexus’s internal combustion models. The latest RZ is different from the norm. The grille’s front section is closed because EVs require less cooling than their IC counterparts.
Spindle Body is the new design language. The section of the enclosed spindle gives the front of the car a longer look, emphasizing the bumper’s lower portion.
The sides of the Lexus RZ’s brand-new Lexus RZ have blacked-out C-pillars. This gives the electric vehicle an open-air rooftop. Depending on your choice, you can also see large 18-20-inch alloy wheels.
The Lexus RZ‘s latest rear part has a slightly sloped rear windscreen and a spoiler for the boot lid component. The slim LED taillight looks similar to the one on the LFZ concept earlier in the year.
Dimension
The Lexus RZ 450e is stylish and sleek, with elements similar to other Lexus models. The size of the SUV is comparable to Lexus’s NX crossover.
It measures 4,805 millimeters in length, 1895 millimeters across, 1 635 millimeters high, and has an 850mm wheelbase.
Colors
Exterior colors will be available in five colors for the RZ, which includes “Ether” and the crossover EV with the option to have a bi-tone scheme.
2023 Lexus RZ450e Interior
You will be greeted by the Lexus RZ, a new design that enhances forward vision and reduces distractions. These displays wrap around the driver and have a 14.0-inch touchscreen used for the infotainment systems. The RZ comes with an up-to-date display.
A similar ethos can also be found in the NX crossover of the second generation. It features a 14-inch infotainment screen, a head-up display, and an instrument binnacle.
These are strategically placed to improve the forward view and decrease distractions.
The cabin is simple in general. Most features can be controlled via the touchscreen and not using physical buttons. You can also use the rotary drive selector to replace a traditional gear shifter.
The optional ‘yoke butterfly steering wheel is the most prominent feature of the minimalist interior design of the Lexus RZ 450e. According to the manufacturer, one in four owners will choose this option.
The yoke steering wheels can rotate between lock and lock at 300 degrees. The RZ driver won’t have to turn hand-over-hand.
Takashi Watanabe (Chief Engineer, Lexus Electrified), Lexus International, stated that the RZ was created to create a Lexus BEV that is safe to ride in, comfortable to handle, and thrilling to drive. We wanted an innovative design to make the transition from BEV easier.
This included the new grille for spindles, now the Lexus spindle body design. The cockpit area incorporates the tuna concept, which focuses on the driver’s operation. Our mission is to provide our customers with unique BEV-specific driving experiences and new experiences.
2023 Lexus RZ450e Exterior
The Lexus RZ shares a platform with the Toyota bZ4X, Subaru Solterra, and Subaru Solterra. It is also similar in size and proportion. Lexus claims it focused on aerodynamics using the SUV’s design and noted that it generates downforce in the rear, reduces drag, and improves traction, range, and acceleration.
The RZ’s rear has horizontal lines and a design that emphasizes the SUV’s broad stance. The new Lexus logo replaces the “L” logo. It spells out the brand’s name. There will be five colors available, with two-tone options.
2023 Lexus RZ450e Safety
Each RZ includes the Lexus Safety System 3.0. There are also bonuses for the first EV. These upgrades focus on driver condition and awareness.
They have enhanced versions for adaptive cruise control, automatic braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Each function monitors driver alertness to determine when to activate or modify each part.
2023 Lexus RZ450e Technology
Toyota, Lexus’ parent company, spent considerable effort redesigning its infotainment system to make it more intuitive and responsive.
The new interface, which is North American and designed by Lexus, will be available for the RZ on a 14-inch touchscreen. It will feature regular updates, voice controls, and many other smartphone connectivity options such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
2023 Lexus RZ450e Specifications
The Lexus RZ 450e has dual motors and the all-new Direct4 all-wheel-drive system. It allows torque transfer between the two axles.
The motors of the front and rear axles produce a combined 201bhp and 107bhp. The RZ450e can transmit 100% of its output in any direction thanks to various sensors that monitor angle, steering and g forces, speed, and other parameters.
The new RZ 450e engine produces 308 bhp and 435 Nm maximum torque. The RZ 450e can go from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds before reaching its top speed of 160 km/h.
A 71.4kWh battery pack powers the RZ. According to J-WLTC testing standards, the Lexus RZ 450e electric SUV claims a cruising distance of 450 km.
Lexus has not yet revealed the charging time of the new battery. It will likely come with the same 150kW DC configuration as the Toyota bZ4x SUV and share the eTNGA E-EV platform.
2023 Lexus RZ450e HUMAN-CENTERED EXPERIENCE
Explore Phoenix with the impressive driving experience of an RZ 450e Lexus. This EV follows the tuna concept to reach the “Seamless E-Motion” goal, with tuna representing the reins used to control a horse.
Lexus uses this concept to describe the seamless handling, steering wheel switches, Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (LSS+ 3.0) driving aids, and other state-of-the-art features.
The RZ features a complete multimedia system with a 14-inch touchscreen, voice command control, and voice command. The RZ features a panoramic roof, dimmable interior lighting, and a beautiful view.
The company is working on a Steer by Wire technology as a commitment to human-centered driving experiences and innovative driving performance.
Once available in the United States, this system will transmit road surface and steering information via the electronic exchange between the steering control unit and the tires.
LSS+ 3.0 driving aids will keep you safe while you commute around Phoenix and prepare for your next adventure. The following safety features are included in these aids:
- Dynamic radar cruise control: This feature automatically applies brakes if it detects you are too close to another vehicle.
- Driver monitor system: This system checks if you are driving and are in control of your vehicle. It activates the hazard lights and slows down your car if you are not.
- Pre-collision system. Your new luxury vehicle’s driver monitor system can detect signs of distraction, drowsiness, and other problems. The system will warn you before slowing down the car to avoid collisions.
- Lane departure alert: This system uses the driver monitor system and provides alerts and steering assistance to help you stay in your lane.
Why 2023 Lexus RZ450e Buyers Should Choose The Hybrid
Over its 200,000-mile life, the base 350h with 24 MPG should consume 8,333 gallons. Although I know the original buyer will not keep the car for more than 200,000 miles, the enhanced fuel mileage will increase the car’s resale price.
It works out roughly the same regardless of whether you keep it. The RX350h with 33 MPG would consume 6061 gallons of fuel, a difference of 2272 gallons.
The hybrid will save you $11,362 over its lifetime, assuming gas prices average $5 per gallon for the entire car’s life (current prices are $4.61 in the US). The hybrid is a $2,000-$3,000 upgrade to a comparable non-hybrid model.
This means you will get the hybrid premium back in the first three years and then enjoy financial savings.
When Will, the 2023 Lexus RZ450e, be Available?
The new RZ450e will be available for purchase by Lexus in the second half of 2022.
It has been difficult for the company to pinpoint the exact timeframe due to chip shortages and supply issues plaguing the automotive industry.
Lexus has confirmed that it will begin selling the RZ in 2023 models by the end of this year.
How Much Will the 2023 Lexus RZ450e Cost?
We expect the RZ450e to be priced at around $55,000, although Lexus has not yet released pricing information. Lexus has not yet released information about trims or options.
The bZ4X starts from $43,215 and includes $2,000 for AWD. The Solterra, which is also AWD, starts at $46,220.
When will the 2023 Lexus RZ450e electric SUV come to Australia?
The RZ’s production timing is yet to be determined. For now, the Lexus office in your area will confirm that the new EV “is being evaluated for Australia” and leave buyers in a waiting-and-see situation.
Is the 2023 Lexus RZ450e a good SUV?
We will not know the exact details until we test it out later in the year.
However, the dual-motor all-wheel-drive RZ will only be available with one variant, the 450e model.
What’s the 2023 Lexus RZ450e?
Lexus has been slow to catch up in the electric vehicle space. You would think Lexus and Toyota would sell thousands of hybrids yearly.
But, this has not been the case. The Toyota bZ4X was revealed late last year. Now it’s the car’s more expensive sibling. The 2023 Lexus RZ450e is the brand’s first EV.
What’s the interior like in the 2023 Lexus RZ450e?
The RX 450e may look like the NX from the outside, but you might feel like it has deja vu inside.
The RZ’s cabin almost looks identical to the NX’s, with the same instrument cluster as the NX and a 14-inch infotainment display.
At an unspecified date later in the year, the RZ’s optional steering wheel will be the most noticeable difference between the crossovers.
Where was the 2023 Lexus RZ450e made?
Japan
Conclusion
The 2023 Lexus RZ450e Electric SUV gives us a glimpse at Lexus’s future in electric power.
The Hydrogen technology Toyota is the most prominent company Toyota, but the electric future of Lexus is powered entirely by batteries.
Lexus International’s Chief Engineer stated that Lexus, a well-known luxury automaker, should pursue the creation of new exciting cars while respecting the environment and nature to create a carbon-neutral society.
