Lexus New RZ – 2025 and Beyond

There’s something fascinating about the current phase of electric vehicles. Everyone’s racing toward the future, but no one’s quite sure what it’s supposed to feel like. Some carmakers are stripping things back to monk-like minimalism. Others are leaning into cyberpunk excess. But Lexus is doing something different. They’re asking: what if the future still felt like driving?

Unveiled in Brussels, the 2025 Lexus RZ represents the latest move in Lexus’ game plan to lead the premium electric charge. The new RZ introduces a range of technical updates, including the first Lexus application of steer-by-wire, an enhanced BEV system, faster charging, and the debut of the F SPORT variant.

Lexus has spent nearly two decades toiling away to refine the balance between driver engagement and environmental responsibility, beginning with the launch of the RX 400h in 2005. Since the announcement of its Lexus Electrified vision in 2019, the brand has committed to delivering a variety of electric and hybrid technologies. The original RZ, launched in 2023, was the brand’s first model built on a dedicated battery electric platform and this new version shows a focused evolution, developed around four primary goals: improved driving pleasure, increased range and charging efficiency, higher performance output, and a modernised design philosophy.

One of the cool new headline additions is Lexus’ steer-by-wire system, replacing the traditional mechanical link between the steering wheel and the axles with electronic control. This has been calibrated to deliver intuitive, fluid operation and was fine-tuned through extensive development at Lexus’ Shimoyama test centre in Japan. It offers a quieter and more connected drive, particularly noticeable when negotiating tight urban corners or sweeping roads. The steering operates within approximately 200 degrees from centre lock to full turn, and the system dynamically adjusts the gear ratio based on speed, improving manoeuvrability at low speeds while maintaining stability at higher speeds. Despite the absence of a physical steering column, the driver still receives road feedback via real-time electric signals, tuned to eliminate unwanted vibration while preserving road feel.

The RZ’s battery electric system has also undergone a complete overhaul. A new eAxle design, combined with a revised inverter and improved motor efficiency, allows for a significant reduction in power losses. These components work in concert with a new 77.0 kWh lithium-ion battery, which has been optimised to increase both energy output and overall range. Lexus estimates that the new RZ achieves an additional 100 km of driving range, depending on model configuration. Charging performance has also been addressed, with the integration of a 22 kW AC onboard charger and a new battery pre-conditioning system, which adjusts the battery temperature before charging begins. This reduces charge time, particularly in colder climates, by up to 30 minutes. Improvements to battery structure and energy management also contribute to greater overall efficiency and longer range under real-world driving conditions.

The new model range is also joined by the RZ 550e F SPORT, the most powerful variant in the line-up. With a maximum output of 300 kW and all-wheel drive via Lexus’ updated DIRECT4 system, the F SPORT delivers a more dynamic drive. The suspension has been retuned specifically for this model, with revised damper and spring settings. A notable addition is Lexus’ new Interactive Manual Drive system, available exclusively on the F SPORT. This electronically controlled feature enables simulated gear shifting using paddle controls, mimicking the feel of an eight-speed manual gearbox. The system calculates torque output based on the accelerator position and selected virtual gear, providing real-time feedback through throttle response, sound and visual cues. A rev limiter and engine sound simulation add to the effect, offering drivers a more immersive connection with the car. A shift guide in the digital instrument display helps the driver synchronise gear changes.

Power delivery across the updated RZ range is managed by Lexus’ refined DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system. Torque is distributed between the front and rear axles dynamically, ranging from 60:40 to 0:100 under straight-line acceleration, and up to 80:20 during cornering, depending on steering input and road conditions. The result is increased stability, flatter cornering behaviour, and more immediate traction under varied driving situations. These characteristics are further supported by Lexus’ Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, which contributes to improved emergency response handling and overall ride quality.

The structural rigidity of the RZ has been increased with the addition of a new radiator support structure and a rear brace, helping to reduce localised torsional flex and improve steering precision. Suspension calibration has been fine-tuned across the range, improving overall balance and comfort. Towing capacity for all-wheel drive models has also been doubled, with the RZ now able to handle braked loads of up to 1,500 kg.

Meanwhile, the interior of the new RZ features the first use of laser-patterned Ultrasuede door trim, made from 30% plant-based materials. A dynamic ambient lighting system projects cool shifting shadow patterns that subtly change over time and the panoramic roof now includes an upgraded dimming function, reducing glare while maintaining visibility.

Local specification and pricing for the New Zealand market will be announced closer to the model’s launch later this year.