There’s one thing fascinating concerning the present part of electrical autos. Everybody’s racing towards the longer term, however nobody’s fairly positive what it’s speculated to really feel like. Some carmakers are stripping issues again to monk-like minimalism. Others are leaning into cyberpunk extra. However Lexus is doing one thing completely different. They’re asking: what if the longer term nonetheless felt like driving?
Unveiled in Brussels, the 2025 Lexus RZ represents the newest transfer in Lexus’ sport plan to steer the premium electrical cost. The brand new RZ introduces a variety of technical updates, together with the primary Lexus software of steer-by-wire, an enhanced BEV system, quicker charging, and the debut of the F SPORT variant.
Lexus has spent almost 20 years toiling away to refine the stability between driver engagement and environmental duty, starting with the launch of the RX 400h in 2005. Because the announcement of its Lexus Electrified imaginative and prescient in 2019, the model has dedicated to delivering quite a lot of electrical and hybrid applied sciences. The unique RZ, launched in 2023, was the model’s first mannequin constructed on a devoted battery electrical platform and this new model reveals a targeted evolution, developed round 4 major targets: improved driving pleasure, elevated vary and charging effectivity, increased efficiency output, and a modernised design philosophy.
One of many cool new headline additions is Lexus’ steer-by-wire system, changing the standard mechanical hyperlink between the steering wheel and the axles with digital management. This has been calibrated to ship intuitive, fluid operation and was fine-tuned by in depth improvement at Lexus’ Shimoyama check centre in Japan. It gives a quieter and extra linked drive, significantly noticeable when negotiating tight city corners or sweeping roads. The steering operates inside roughly 200 levels from centre lock to full flip, and the system dynamically adjusts the gear ratio based mostly on pace, enhancing manoeuvrability at low speeds whereas sustaining stability at increased speeds. Regardless of the absence of a bodily steering column, the motive force nonetheless receives highway suggestions by way of real-time electrical indicators, tuned to get rid of undesirable vibration whereas preserving highway really feel.
The RZ’s battery electrical system has additionally undergone an entire overhaul. A brand new eAxle design, mixed with a revised inverter and improved motor effectivity, permits for a major discount in energy losses. These parts work in live performance with a brand new 77.0 kWh lithium-ion battery, which has been optimised to extend each power output and general vary. Lexus estimates that the brand new RZ achieves an extra 100 km of driving vary, relying on mannequin configuration. Charging efficiency has additionally been addressed, with the combination of a 22 kW AC onboard charger and a brand new battery pre-conditioning system, which adjusts the battery temperature earlier than charging begins. This reduces cost time, significantly in colder climates, by as much as half-hour. Enhancements to battery construction and power administration additionally contribute to larger general effectivity and longer vary below real-world driving situations.
The brand new mannequin vary can be joined by the RZ 550e F SPORT, probably the most highly effective variant within the line-up. With a most output of 300 kW and all-wheel drive by way of Lexus’ up to date DIRECT4 system, the F SPORT delivers a extra dynamic drive. The suspension has been retuned particularly for this mannequin, with revised damper and spring settings. A notable addition is Lexus’ new Interactive Guide Drive system, out there completely on the F SPORT. This electronically managed characteristic permits simulated gear shifting utilizing paddle controls, mimicking the texture of an eight-speed guide gearbox. The system calculates torque output based mostly on the accelerator place and chosen digital gear, offering real-time suggestions by throttle response, sound and visible cues. A rev limiter and engine sound simulation add to the impact, providing drivers a extra immersive reference to the automotive. A shift information within the digital instrument show helps the motive force synchronise gear adjustments.
Energy supply throughout the up to date RZ vary is managed by Lexus’ refined DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system. Torque is distributed between the entrance and rear axles dynamically, starting from 60:40 to 0:100 below straight-line acceleration, and as much as 80:20 throughout cornering, relying on steering enter and highway situations. The result’s elevated stability, flatter cornering behaviour, and extra quick traction below different driving conditions. These traits are additional supported by Lexus’ Automobile Dynamics Built-in Administration (VDIM) system, which contributes to improved emergency response dealing with and general journey high quality.
The structural rigidity of the RZ has been elevated with the addition of a brand new radiator assist construction and a rear brace, serving to to cut back localised torsional flex and enhance steering precision. Suspension calibration has been fine-tuned throughout the vary, enhancing general stability and luxury. Towing capability for all-wheel drive fashions has additionally been doubled, with the RZ now in a position to deal with braked a great deal of as much as 1,500 kg.
In the meantime, the inside of the brand new RZ options the primary use of laser-patterned Ultrasuede door trim, comprised of 30% plant-based supplies. A dynamic ambient lighting system tasks cool shifting shadow patterns that subtly change over time and the panoramic roof now contains an upgraded dimming operate, decreasing glare whereas sustaining visibility.
Native specification and pricing for the New Zealand market will likely be introduced nearer to the mannequin’s launch later this yr.
