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Lexus has been teasing its first dedicated EV, the RZ450e, for quite some time – but now we have a better look than ever at what to expect
Lexus has released new pictures of its upcoming RZ450e fully-electric midsize SUV that shares its e-TNGA platform – and most proportions – with the Toyota BZ4X and Subaru Solterra crossovers.
The first dedicated electric model from Lexus, the RZ450e will join the brand’s UX 300e small SUV as the second all-electric vehicle on the brand’s showroom floors.
With a similar size to the petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid Lexus NX midsize SUV, the RZ450e will compete with the BMW iX3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi E-tron and Tesla Model Y.
Lexus has confirmed that the RZ450e will have the brand’s Direct4 AWD system with dual motors. Precise power and torque outputs are yet to be confirmed.
The AWD variants of the BZ4X and Solterra make 160kW combined, though US publication Car and Driver has reported that the Lexus RZ450e will make significantly more power than its mainstream siblings, suggesting each motor will produce 149kW/300Nm for a combined output of 298kW/600Nm.
Battery specifications have also not yet been revealed, though the Toyota and Subaru each make use of a 71.4kWh usable battery pack that should provide a range of around 500km WLTP.
While looks are always subjective, Lexus seems to have gotten the design and proportions just right for the RZ 450e.
Up front, the 450 e has the classic Lexus-shaped grille – which is now solid due to there being no combustion engine – along with new swoosh-style daytime running lights.
On the sides of the vehicle, black flared side skirts help to compliment the front and rear diffusers, adding a sporting undertone to this sleek SUV.
The inside of the car is largely still a secret, but we expect the cabin to be luxurious in typical Lexus fashion, while the yoke steering wheel from the Toyota BZ4X is not likely to be carried over.
More information should come to light in Spring (for the northern hemisphere) so expect to hear more about the RZ 450e around April or May 2022.
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