Key Points
- Lexus has showcased the exterior design of its RZ 450e electric SUV
- Same e-TNGA underpinnings as the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra
- Will debut in full next year ahead of 2023 launch
The exterior design of the upcoming 2023 Lexus RZ electric SUV has been showcased, ahead of a full unveiling next year.
It will become the first electric vehicle from Lexus based on a dedicated EV architecture, sharing the same e-TNGA platform as the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra twins – but with a completely different look.
The production RZ takes strong inspiration from the LF-Z Concept unveiled earlier this year, as well as the second-generation NX medium SUV.
In Lexus speak, the RZ 450e model designation points to a more-potent setup over the Toyota and Subaru electric SUVs, which can be had with an all-wheel dual-motor powertrain producing 160kW of power.
The model could instead feature the 90kWh battery pack from the LF-Z, with a total system output of approximately 300kW, courtesy of two 150kW/300Nm electric motors.
Lexus’s new Direct4 electric all-wheel-drive system will also make an appearance in the RZ.
A claimed driving range of between 500 and 600 kilometres on a single charge is anticipated, although real-world figures are likely to be lower.
Despite lacking a traditional grille, the front end of the RZ retains the brand’s spindle design by way of sculpturing the front bumper – rather than having a fake one.
The front bumper also sports dark grey accents below the sharp headlights, along with a set of air intakes.
Along the side, there is grey wheel cladding, a charging port ahead of the front door and a blacked-out C-pillar to create the impression of a floating roof. A set of 20-inch alloy wheels will be available on the RZ.
The LED tail-light strip extending across the tailgate from the concept carries over to the production car, and is joined by Lexus badging and a closed-off lower bumper.
Lexus has yet to provide any details or images for the interior of the RZ, but we can expect similar technology to both the bZ4X and the new NX, with the latter SUV featuring a large 14-inch touchscreen running the marque’s latest infotainment system.
Full specifications – including Australian details – for the 2023 Lexus RZ will be announced in the first half of 2022.
Keyword: 2023 Lexus RZ 450e design revealed