Marking the brand’s first step into the U.S. electric vehicle landscape, the RZ enters on a shared platform with the bZ4X. As a compact crossover, it faces tough competition from rivals like the C40, GV60, Lyriq, and the Model Y, which dominated global sales in the first two quarters of 2023. This debut model aims to carve out its place in a fast-evolving segment.
DESIGN
The 2023 Lexus RZ 450e brings a refined design approach, with a clean, button-light interior that emphasizes simplicity. Sporting 20-inch alloy wheels and distinct body lines that lead into twin wings on the floating rear roof, it makes a bold, sporty impression.
Its daring design includes a sharply angled rear windshield and a spoiler above the Lexus emblem. Up front, checkmark-shaped daytime running lights frame the spindle grille, and an illuminated Lexus badge can be added for $200. Unlike the bZ4X, the RZ’s instrument cluster sits closer to the steering wheel, blending into a 14.0-inch center touchscreen for a more cohesive driver experience.
Inside, the cabin features a combination of ultrasuede and synthetic leather, breaking from Lexus’s traditional style with a minimalist, organized layout. Climate controls and vents surround the touchscreen in a fresh arrangement, providing an intuitive, user-friendly design focused on comfort and accessibility.
PERFORMANCE
Standard all-wheel drive on the RZ combines a 150-kilowatt motor at the front with an 80-kilowatt motor in the rear, all powered by a 71.4-kilowatt-hour Panasonic cell battery. Five selectable drive modes adapt speed and power distribution, with a typical 60% front and 40% rear power split under standard driving conditions.
Dynamic power shifts between front and rear motors during turns, enhancing maneuverability and stability when exiting corners. A low center of gravity and evenly balanced weight distribution contribute to a stable feel, while a multilink rear suspension and reactive dampers add to the RZ’s composed ride.
Drive modes include Normal, Eco, Sport, and custom settings that impact steering and acceleration response through the touchscreen. Streamlining the mode selection process from the current three steps would improve ease of use.
Range mode optimizes efficiency by moderating speed, deactivating the AC, and primarily using the rear motor. Above 62 mph, it automatically reverts to Eco mode, extending city driving range by approximately 5% to 10%.
Four levels of regenerative braking are available to maximize range. Instead of a B setting, paddles behind the steering wheel allow control over regenerative intensity. Even at the highest level, braking won’t stop the vehicle fully; Lexus recommends the brake pedal for a smooth, complete stop.
RANGE
Although the RZ doesn’t reach the range of some competitors, it utilizes its battery power quite effectively.
During our test, the model outfitted with 20-inch wheels experienced a reduced range, managing just 196 miles at an efficiency rate of 95 MPGe, translating to approximately 2.8 miles per kilowatt-hour.
Switching to the standard 18-inch wheels boosts its range to 220 miles, along with an improved efficiency of 107 MPGe, or around 3.2 miles per kilowatt-hour.
VERDICT
We spent over a week test-driving the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e Luxury, which carries an MSRP of $64,000. Factoring in all the added options discussed in this review, the final cost rises to an impressive $67,270.
Competition
In the market, the Lexus RZ holds a unique look compared to its platform siblings, the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra.
The Volvo C40, Polestar 2, and XC40 Recharge share systems but diverge in styling; the C40 and Polestar go for a hatchback look, while the XC40 favors a small-crossover aesthetic.
Cadillac’s Lyriq, with a 102-kWh battery and a spacious cabin, achieves 312 miles of range and boasts a striking interior design.
Genesis’s GV60 brings a distinctive blend of high-tech features, swift DC charging, and smooth acceleration within a cozy cabin space.
Despite some pricing differences, the Tesla Model Y, starting at $60,000, remains a top performer in both range and efficiency.
