Lexus RZ Update: More Power, More Tech, More Simulated Thrill

Lexus is giving its all-electric RZ a serious boost, with more power, a longer range, and cutting-edge tech aimed at making the drive more exhilarating than ever. The close ties to Toyota’s oddly named BZ4X and Subaru’s unimpressive Solterra have not done RZ any favours. While the Lexus didn’t attract the same criticism, buyers have not taken RZ to their hearts

With the company selling a modest 2,023 cars for the first 2 months of 2025, Lexus RZ account for only 18 units, down from 32 for the same period last year. Competition is stiff not only from established legacy brands such as Kia, Hyundai, and Genesis, new Chinese brands are washing into Australia like shells onto a beach.

The market is fickle, and tesla stands as a crumbling example of arrogance, poor management, inadequate product development and appalling customer service. But it is more than that, Japanese brands have stubbornly resisted. Mazda’s EV failed having sold very few examples. It was far too expensive for the insignificant range, and no amount of slick advertising was going to persuade buyers otherwise.

Toyota has a mere handful of EVs and all but one are lexus, with both Lexus and Toyota spruiking hybrid drivetrains instead. Lexus is asking buyers to stick with them so is this change enough? If you thought electric SUVs were all about quiet efficiency, Lexus wants to prove otherwise.

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ABOVE: Upgraded Lexus RZ

The changes

The RZ simply wasn’t selling as it was and in the 2 years since launch, the people in charge scrambled to improve the offering. The local range kicks off with the RZ 500e, now with 280kW – a much needed 50kW bump over the outgoing model. But the real star is the new RZ 550e F Sport, flexing a hefty 300kW and 645Nm of torque. That’s still only average grunt for an EV in this class, delivering the 0-100 km/h time of around 5.3 seconds is nippy-ish, considering the opposition.

Adding to the experience is Lexus’ Steer-by-Wire system, now available with a unique yoke-style steering wheel, giving drivers a taste of the future.

A major talking point is Lexus’ Interactive Manual Drive. While it won’t fool die-hard petrolheads, it aims to replicate the sensation of a manual transmission—complete with virtual gears and an engine-like soundtrack. Purists may scoff, but for those who miss the theatre of traditional driving, it’s an intriguing touch.

Beyond the powertrain, Lexus has refined the RZ’s ride and handling, tweaking the DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system for sharper responses and improved traction. The torque-split system dynamically shifts power between the front and rear axles to enhance stability and acceleration, ensuring confidence-inspiring control in all conditions. Suspension upgrades, stiffer body structures, and new aerodynamic elements round out the package, ensuring this EV stays true to Lexus’ signature driving feel.

Inside, the RZ embraces Lexus’ latest design philosophy with more sustainable materials, an optional panoramic dimmable roof, and upgraded soundproofing to keep things whisper-quiet. The Ultrasuede trim, made from plant-based materials, adds a premium touch while nodding to eco-conscious luxury. Lexus has also worked on reducing road noise through extensive insulation measures, ensuring a serene cabin even at high speeds.

The interior is dominated by a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system with an upgraded interface, complemented by a 13-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system for an immersive sound experience. A fully digital 7-inch instrument cluster provides key driving information, while an optional head-up display projects essential details onto the windshield for easy viewing. Heated and ventilated seats come as standard, with premium leather upholstery available in select trims. The spacious cabin offers ample legroom for both front and rear passengers, while a redesigned centre console enhances storage and usability. Additionally, ambient lighting with customisable colours adds to the luxurious atmosphere.

Battery performance is another key focus, with the updated RZ featuring a 71.4kWh lithium-ion pack offering an estimated range of up to 475km (WLTP). While it still falls short of some rivals, improved efficiency and charging speeds (now supporting up to 150kW DC fast charging) mean the RZ can top up from 10-80% in approximately 30 minutes under optimal conditions.

Despite its improvements, the RZ still has something to prove. Lexus has taken a measured approach to electrification, lagging behind some rivals in raw range and charging speed. However, the brand continues to prioritise refinement and driving engagement, carving out a unique space in the luxury EV segment.

With the updated RZ set to arrive in Australia later this year, all eyes will be on pricing and final specifications. If Lexus can strike the right balance between performance, technology, and value, the RZ could make a strong case for itself in the rapidly evolving EV landscape.

RZ main specifications⁴

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