Lexus RZ 450e here mid-2023
First-ever bespoke electric Lexus confirmed for Aussie introduction next year, but there’s no word yet on priceLexus Australia has confirmed its first-ever dedicated electric vehicle, the Lexus RZ 450e, is headed Down Under and will enter local showrooms in the middle of 2023.
Pricing and finer specification details will be released closer to the model’s launch in around seven or eight months, but so far Lexus has nominated a circa-450km effective driving range and the inclusion of all-wheel drive courtesy of a dual-motor powertrain.
“Our customers have been excited by the RZ ever since its global reveal back in April,” Lexus Australia chief executive John Pappas said.
“I am delighted to confirm the RZ as the next all-new offering in the Lexus Electrified portfolio in Australia. This is a luxury SUV for customers wanting the latest in Lexus zero-emission technology and innovative design.
“The RZ expands our portfolio of electrified vehicles, moving Lexus ever closer to our ultimate goal of a sustainable society.”
Underpinned by Toyota’s bespoke e-TNGA modular EV platform, the Lexus RZ can be seen as the electric counterpart of the new-generation Lexus RX large SUV and the Lexus equivalent of the Toyota bZ4X.
The RZ’s dual-motor powertrain consists of 150kW front and 80kW rear electric motors – though a combined figure is yet to surface – and draws current from a 71.4kWh battery pack.
MacPherson strut front and double-wishbone rear suspension arrangements take care of bump absorption and aid the active ‘DIRECT4’ all-wheel drive system in keeping things composed through the bends.
We don’t know yet if the controversial and supposedly optional steering yoke will be offered in our market or not; that’ll depend on whether it meets the relevant ADR requirements.
Even so, Lexus put its faith in the Tesla-inspired feature from the outset, claiming it “greatly reduces the driver’s workload, eliminating the need for hand-over-hand operation, such as for intersections, U-turns, parking and winding roads” given it acts on a variable-ratio steer-by-wire system.
The RZ’s Aussie introduction will bring the number of electrified models in the local Lexus line-up to nine, joining six hybrids, one plug-in hybrid and the one other battery-electric offering, the UX 300e.
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