Lexus RZ 450e in the works

The Lexus RZ 450e is an enigma wrapped in a riddle. The Japanese luxury brand filed a trademark application for the all-new nameplate this month in a number of countries including Australia.

While that doesn’t mean the mystery vehicle is a done deal and will be in showrooms next year, it suggests that Lexus is serious about its next EV.

With a number of new models on the way, including the new Lexus IS mid-size sedan  later this year and a facelifted version of the Lexus LS limousine next year, the all-new Lexus RZ 450e would maintain new product momentum for a premium brand whose model range is getting old.

Trademark applications for the Lexus RZ 450e name have been filed in Australia, Europe and the USA, which adds a little more weight to the new global product, with the ‘e’ moniker meaning it will almost certainly be an electric vehicle or EV.

The RZ name has never been used by Lexus before but whether it’s a sports car along the lines of the RC coupe or an SUV akin to the RX range is anyone’s guess.

However, given the RZ moniker is close to the RX name and that higher-riding crossover wagons demand continues to increase, the smart money is on an SUV.

It could be a toned-down production version of the recently revealed LF-30 EV concept (pictured), a high-tech flagship SUV ‘coupe’ that would give the Audi Q8 and BMW X6 a run for their deutschmarks.

What is more obvious is that the EV will have a fair bit of gristle.

Lexus’ first EV, the UX 300e, generates 150kW of power and 300Nm of torque, so it could be expected that a vehicle bearing the 450e badge would be aiming for at least 200kW and potentially lots more torque depending on how many electric motors it gets.

It could even use two of the UX 300e motors, which would theoretically give it 300kW and 600Nm.

Lexus has made no secret of its desire to bring hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEV) to bear and there’s a slim chance this vehicle could based on the upcoming Toyota Mirai, itself a far more luxurious machine than the original version.

Separately, Lexus has also trademarked the LBX name in Europe, which could be a new flagship crossover vehicle. All Lexus models starting with L (LX, LS, LC, etc) are range-topping luxury vehicles fitted with lots of hand-crafted details using lavish materials.

There’s clearly plenty going on at Lexus. What do you think the RZ 450e and LBX could be? Have your say in the comments below.