Lexus Unveils RZ, Its First Bespoke Electric [Video]

Lexus announced on Wednesday the unveiling of its 2023 Lexus RZ450e, the luxury marque’s second entry into the EV market, and the first car designed specifically on an electric car platform from the RZ450e.

Lexus RZ450e is expected to show off a new active four-wheel-drive system dubbed DIRECT4 with a 71.4kWh battery and a claimed range of around 280 miles.

Lexus said that the features will enable the car to automatically distribute force to each wheel according to its need.

DIRECT4 is expected to offer “excellent driving performance” with a “stronger human-machine connection.”

According to the automaker, the RZ450e interior looks like it caters to a more affluent buyer than the Toyota bZ4X.

The cabin is said to be styled with simplicity in mind and is lined with upscale materials.

While Lexus has confirmed that the RZ450e will be offered with a yoke-style steering wheel, the A 14.0-inch touchscreen will control the infotainment system, which has the same new software we've seen on the Lexus NX and LX models.

Lexus said that owners can expect lots of interior space and plenty of comforts, both for the driver and their passengers.

The rear passengers look of the RZ450e also comes standard with a dimming panoramic sunroof function that includes a host of driver-assistance technology, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist help make those seats feel a little more spacious, especially compared to most Lexus crossover SUVs.

Among its more desirable options are a head-up display as well as a feature that allows drivers to remotely parallel park the vehicle.

2023 Lexus RZ450e shares some similar components with the Toyota bZ4X as they both ride on e-TNGA platform that Toyota co-developed with Subaru. Lexus calls its dual-electric-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain Direct4.

The motor upfront is rated at 201 horsepower and the one in the rear is rated at 107 horses.