The Lexus RZ 450e doesn’t provide an amazing range, but its Direct 4 AWD system promises to make up for it with unparalleled driving involvement.
Under the presence of Akio Toyoda and his team, Lexus and Toyota showcased their future for the next decade with several EV product lines, including crossovers, hatchbacks, off-road vehicles, and an all-electric LFA successor. Notably, Lexus plans to achieve a fully electric lineup by 2035, starting with the latest RZ 450e.
The crossover sits on the same scalable e-TNGA platform as the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra, albeit in a more premium suit. The styling is also more striking, particularly the “Spindle Body.” The new design feature replaces the spindle grille, as there is no need for one in an EV. On some “bi-tone” models, Lexus even highlights the feature with a blacked-out solid panel. The front also features side fins and a vent at the bottom to improve aerodynamic efficiency and cool the batteries.
Meanwhile, the rest of the crossover goes the angular route with sharp creases and side body lines. The rear-end looks even more dramatic with a split roof spoiler and sloping back glass, reminiscent of the Lotus Eletre.
Beyond the design, Lexus’ engineers put a lot of work into developing the electric powertrain. The RZ 450e is powered by two motors mounted on each axle, producing a respectable 308 hp — almost 100 hp more than its sibling bZ4X! However, the battery capacity stayed at 71.4-kWh, providing a 225-mile range. Lexus says the RZ 450e supports 150-kW fast charging, which is only okay in 2022.
Despite the range shortcomings, the RZ scores big on driving dynamics with an intelligent Direct 4 AWD system. Taking a slice of inspiration from cheetahs, the engineers created a system that can vary the amount of torque sent to each wheel depending on the amount of grip available. For example, more torque can be transferred on the outer wheels during cornering to improve confidence while attacking a corner. The system also minimizes pitch during hard launches for seamless acceleration.
The second magic pill of the handling experience is the cutting-edge steer-by-wire system. Just like the Toyota bZ4X and the Tesla Model S Plaid, the Lexus utilizes a yoke steering wheel calibrated for road use. In a steer-by-wire system, the steering wheel isn’t directly connected to the wheels. Instead, an electric motor turns the wheels, reducing the amount of effort, especially at lower speeds.
Notably, the steering only turns 150 degrees from lock to lock when driving in a parking lot, though the ratio increases with speed. Hence, a yoke makes a lot of sense here, as the driver won’t need to take their hands off the steering wheel. Unfortunately, Lexus will only offer the yoke in Europe at the moment, while North America will get regular steering.
Furthermore, Lexus also kept things simple and practical in the cabin, with the majority of the car toggles oriented towards the driver. The RZ 450e receives a 14-inch infotainment display with all-new software and standard support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
The electric car market is slowly heating up with more and more offerings set to disrupt Tesla’s sales in the future. Expect Lexus to roll out the 2023 RZ 450e to showrooms by the end of the year!
Gallery: Lexus RZ 450e
