Lexus updated the lineup of the RZ, its first electric car. The carmaker brought in a new front-wheel drive variant, two new paint options, and a higher price.
The new variant in the lineup is the RZ 300e FWD, with a single-motor powertrain and 201 horsepower. The energy is stored in a 72.8-kWh CATL-sourced lithium-ion battery, which stores enough energy for an EPA-estimated range of up to 266 miles (428 kilometers) when the car rides on 18-inch wheels. With 20-inch wheels, it can drive as far as 224 miles (360 kilometers).
Meanwhile, the RZ450e remains in the lineup with the DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system that Lexus introduced in its portfolio with the 2023 RX. The rear eAxle is linked to the engine and front motor.
Each of the two eAxle units drives a set of wheels, generating 201 horsepower (204 PS) at the front and 107 horsepower (109 PS) at the rear for a total system output of 308 horsepower (313 PS). The figures make the car accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 kph) in 5.0 seconds.
The RZ450e features a 71.4 kWh battery pack developed by Prime Planet Energy & Solutions, which provides it with an EPA-estimated range of 220 miles (354 kilometers) with 18-inch wheels and 196 miles (315 kilometers) with 20-inch wheels.
The Lexus RZ is underpinned by Toyota’s lightweight e-TNGA steel platform. Two trims are available in the lineup, the Premium with 18-inch wheels in a Dark Gray Metallic finish and Luxury, sorting 20-inch wheels in a Black and Machined finish.
Photo: Lexus
Starting in 2024, customers can also order the model in Copper Crest in either mono- or bi-tone with Ether and Cloudburst Gray. The color was first introduced to the North American market with the 2023 RX. Caviar, Iridium, Cloudburst Gray, Eminent White Pearl, and Ether are the other exterior paint options.
The RZ keeps the minimalist approach on board. Customers can check the box for the optional Dynamic Sky panorama glass roof. The relevant information regarding driving is available on a 10-inch head-up display, while the infotainment system shows up on the 14-inch touchscreen.
The Premium grade brings the Ultrasuede and upholstery material made from bio-based sustainable materials, while the Luxury comes with the all-new Tsuyasumi film, which is a shiny charcoal effect on the center console. Five USB ports are on board.
Three interior color options are available: the Thunderstorm and Macadamia combination, Palomino, and Dapple Gray.
A new dual-voltage charging cable for 120V and 240V outlets becomes standard, nregardless of the trim.
The Lexus RZ rolls off the production lines of the Motomachi Plant in Toyota City, Japan. The 2024 variant is going on sale this December, with the deliveries slated for the first quarter of the next year.
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