Lexus is entering the world of electric vehicles with their latest model, the RZ450e. This electric vehicle shares its platform with the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra. As expected, the 2023 Lexus RZ450e boasts a luxurious cabin to complement its sophisticated exterior design.
While the RZ450e shares a 63.4-kWh battery pack with the bZ4X, its powertrain is more robust, featuring a dual-motor setup that delivers an impressive 308 horsepower. Lexus refers to this powertrain as Direct4, providing standard all-wheel drive for enhanced performance.
The RZ450e stands out with its sharp and stylish exterior, featuring a floating roof, a sleek ducktail spoiler, and striking headlamps. Inside the cabin, the design takes a minimalist approach, with most controls conveniently integrated into a large 14.0-inch touchscreen infotainment display.
What’s New?
The RZ will be an all-new entrant in the Lexus lineup for 2023 and the brand’s first all-electric offering.
2023 Lexus RZ450e Price and Which One to Buy
Base/As: $59,650/$63,415
RZ450e Luxury – $65,150
We’re guessing on price here, but we think Lexus will offer the RZ450e in standard and F Sport trims. Lexus hasn’t released pricing yet, but we know that a host of desirable features will be standard, including a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, and more.
EV Motor, Power, and Performance
The 2023 Lexus RZ450e is an impressive electric vehicle that boasts a cutting-edge powertrain known as Direct4. This advanced system utilizes dual motors, delivering a total of 308 horsepower, and offers the added advantage of all-wheel drive as a standard feature. While the acceleration of the RZ450e is undeniably swift, during our initial test drive, we found it to be slightly less exhilarating compared to its competitors such as the Jaguar I-Pace and the Volvo C40 Recharge.
Based on our estimations, the RZ450e should be able to reach 60 mph in approximately 5.5 seconds, demonstrating commendable performance. In terms of steering, the RZ450e comes equipped with a steer-by-wire system as standard. However, for those who prefer a more traditional driving experience, Lexus has confirmed that an optional yoke-style steering wheel will be available. Rest assured, if you’re not quite ready for the unconventional yoke design, you can opt for the standard circular wheel instead.
Although the steer-by-wire system may require some adjustment initially, once we familiarized ourselves with its operation, we discovered that it greatly enhanced the vehicle’s handling capabilities. To provide a comprehensive assessment, we are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to test the 2023 Lexus RZ450e at our dedicated test track. As soon as we have conducted these tests, we will update this story with the results, ensuring you stay well-informed.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
The 2023 Lexus RZ450e model is set to employ the identical 65.6-kWh battery pack found in the bZ4X and Solterra. This battery pack is expected to provide an approximate driving range of 225 miles per charge, as per information from Lexus. While the RZ450 offers a respectable range, it’s worth noting that its onboard charger has a power output of 6.6 kW, which is comparatively weaker than what some of its competitors offer. Additionally, the RZ’s fast-charging capabilities are somewhat limited, as it can only connect to DC fast chargers with a maximum power rating of 150 kW.
Despite these limitations, the RZ450 still promises a practical driving range for everyday use. Its shared battery technology with the bZ4X and Solterra ensures that owners can rely on a familiar and proven power source. The 65.6-kWh battery pack strikes a good balance between capacity and weight, allowing for efficient performance without sacrificing too much interior space or adding excessive weight to the vehicle.
However, it’s important to note that the RZ450’s 6.6-kW onboard charger might require more time to fully charge the battery compared to some of its competitors with more powerful chargers. This could be a consideration for those who frequently rely on home or workplace charging. Nonetheless, the RZ450’s charging capabilities are still more than sufficient for overnight charging or topping up during extended stops.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe
According to the official fuel economy estimates for the RZ450e, the vehicle showcases higher efficiency when equipped with the standard 18-inch wheels. These wheels earn EPA ratings of 115 miles per gallon gasoline equivalent (MPGe) in city driving and 98 MPGe on the highway. However, if you opt for the optional 20-inch wheels, these estimates decrease to 102 MPGe in the city and 87 MPGe on the highway.
To further evaluate the vehicle’s fuel efficiency, we conducted our own test on a highway route with a constant speed of 75 miles per hour. During this test, we recorded a fuel economy rating of 68 MPGe. It’s important to note that this test was specifically designed to reflect real-world driving conditions and provides valuable information regarding the RZ450e’s performance in high-speed situations.
These fuel economy numbers indicate that the RZ450e offers impressive efficiency, especially when paired with the standard 18-inch wheels. The EPA ratings highlight its environmentally friendly nature, delivering a commendable balance between city and highway driving. However, it’s worth considering that the optional 20-inch wheels slightly reduce the vehicle’s overall efficiency, resulting in lower MPGe figures.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The 2023 Lexus RZ450e introduces a refreshing and simplicity-focused interior design that aims to enhance the overall user experience. In an effort to declutter the cabin, the designers have significantly reduced the number of buttons and switches on the dashboard and doors. Instead, these functions have been cleverly integrated into a large and intuitive infotainment display.
This approach draws inspiration from other successful electric vehicle models like Tesla and Polestar, which have also embraced streamlined interiors. While the results may vary among different brands, the Lexus RZ follows suit and achieves a remarkable sense of spaciousness, especially for a small crossover. The overall ambiance of the cabin exudes an upscale feel, thanks to the generous use of premium materials.
Upon entering the RZ, you’ll immediately notice the surfaces adorned with faux suede or synthetic leather, adding a touch of luxury to the surroundings. This choice of materials not only elevates the visual appeal but also ensures a comfortable and refined experience for both the driver and passengers. The attention to detail is evident throughout the cabin, showcasing Lexus’s commitment to creating a serene and sophisticated driving environment.
By integrating various functions into the infotainment display, Lexus has not only simplified the interior but also provided a more intuitive and user-friendly interface. Controlling the vehicle’s features and settings becomes more convenient, allowing drivers to focus on the road ahead. This thoughtful design approach aligns with Lexus’s dedication to providing a seamless and enjoyable driving experience.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2023 Lexus RZ450e boasts an impressive 14.0-inch infotainment touchscreen that takes center stage on the RZ’s dashboard. This sizable display shares a striking resemblance to the screen found in its gasoline-powered counterpart, the NX SUV. Lexus proudly announces that drivers have the option to engage with the system through touch functionality or by utilizing voice commands, adding a seamless and convenient user experience.
In addition to the captivating infotainment screen, the RZ450e comes equipped with a digital gauge display and a head-up display. These features provide essential information directly in the driver’s line of sight, allowing for a safer and more focused driving experience.
For tech-savvy individuals, the 2023 Lexus RZ450e is set to offer both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features. Furthermore, the wireless connectivity capabilities of these platforms make it effortless to sync and enjoy a personalized digital ecosystem within the vehicle.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 2023 Lexus RZ450e, like other exciting new models from Lexus, comes fully equipped with a comprehensive range of standard driver-assistance features. This means that drivers can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with advanced safety technology. Among the standard features are adaptive cruise control, which intelligently adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles on the road. There’s also lane-keeping assist, a system that helps drivers stay centered in their lane by providing gentle steering assistance.
To further enhance safety, the RZ450e includes automated emergency braking. This feature is designed to detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes if necessary, helping to mitigate the severity of accidents or avoid them altogether. It’s reassuring to know that these advanced safety features are built into the vehicle as standard, providing an added layer of protection on the road.
For those seeking even more convenience, optional features are available for the 2023 Lexus RZ450e. One such feature is an automated parking system, which takes the stress out of maneuvering into tight parking spaces. With this optional feature, drivers can let the vehicle handle the steering while they focus on controlling the speed and braking. It’s a convenient and impressive addition for those who frequently find themselves in crowded parking lots or busy urban areas.
For more information about the RZ’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Standard adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Lexus provides a competitive limited warranty and an even better powertrain warranty. The automaker also includes a short period of complimentary scheduled maintenance.
- The limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- The powertrain warranty covers six years or 70,000 miles
- Hybrid components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance is covered for one year or 10,000 miles
2023 Lexus RZ450e Specifications
Vehicle Type: front- and mid-motor, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon
PRICE (C/D EST)
Base/As Tested: $59,650/$63,415
Options: Technology package (digital key, head-up display, parking assist), $1425; 20-inch wheels, $1240; premium Ether paint, $500; Cold Area package (headlamp washers), $200; digital rearview mirror, $200; illuminated front badge, $200
POWERTRAIN
Front Motor: permanent-magnet synchronous AC, 201 hp, 196 lb-ft
Rear Motor: permanent-magnet synchronous AC, 107 hp, 124 lb-ft
Combined Power: 308 hp
Combined Torque: 320 lb-ft
Battery Pack: liquid-cooled lithium-ion, 65.6 kWh
Onboard Charger: 6.6 kW
Transmissions, F/R: direct-drive
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 112.2 in
Length: 189.2 in
Width: 74.6 in
Height: 64.4 in
Passenger Volume (C/D est): 94 ft3
Cargo Volume (C/D est): 26 ft3
Curb Weight (C/D est): 4650 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST)
60 mph: 5.5 sec
1/4-Mile: 14.0 sec
Top Speed: 120 mph
EPA FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST)
Combined/City/Highway: 95–105/100–113/90–96 MPGe
Range: 200–225 mi
