Lexus NZ has just launched the RZ 450e to its portfolio with two models available for the all-new luxury compact SUV.

The RZ is designed from the ground up as the brand works towards next-generation BEVs by 2026, with a focus on optimising everything in the car for the battery electric powertrain.

Under the ‘Lexus Electrified’ vision, Lexus aims to invigorate all owners’ authentic love for driving exhilaration, and in doing so, will broaden its Lexus Electrified portfolio of hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), battery electric vehicles (BEV), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) to exceed the needs and expectations of a more diverse set of luxury buyers.

Vice President of Lexus New Zealand, Andrew Davis, says Lexus is working towards the goal of 100% BEV models by 2035, with a full range of BEVs across the entire Lexus range by 2030.

“The new electrified Lexus RZ is our future of electrification and will continue to accelerate our carbon reduction journey. From the brave design through to the exhilarating performance, it will be a delight to drive. And of course, being a Lexus, the build quality and luxury interior will be second to none,” he says.

Two models are available, the Core from $141,600 and the Dynamic from $151,600.

Both variants adopt new eAxle technology integrating the transaxle, motor generator, and inverter with 230kW total output (150kW front and 80kW rear motor).

The Dynamic variant adds two dozen more features including 20” black and machined-faced alloy wheels (up from 18” for the Core), a power-dimming panoramic roof, adaptive high-beam headlights, Ultrasuede® seat fabric (NuLuxe for the Core), Lexus TeamMate Advanced Parking, and a head-up display.

The RZ front, and rear feature a new Lexus Electrified look with sleek lines and sharply angled lights. The RZ is built on a new e-TNGA platform, which gives Lexus the flexibility to create a range of vehicles with different motor sizes, battery types and drive systems. 

The “Lexus Driving Signature” is a uniquely Lexus driving experience that aims to achieve predictable, linear response according to the driver’s intentions. In the RZ, the high-precision motor torque control and optimal battery and motor placement help to achieve ideal weight distribution and high response.

This concept is based on the DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system that controls front and rear drive force according to driving and road surface conditions. It achieves driving performance where the vehicle directly responds according to the driver’s input.

DIRECT4 and the newly developed high-output electronic axle (eAxle) motor continuously controls the drive force of the four wheels with high precision. It works according to the ground contact load of the vehicle regardless of road surface and driving conditions to achieve an exhilarating driving experience in line with the driver’s intention.

The thin, high-capacity 71.4kWh battery pack is placed flat under the floor, to achieve a low centre of gravity. RZ includes an 11kW internal charger and is three-phase charging capable. The approximate driving range is 470km.