Lexus RZ (2022 - )

Lexus maintains a sense of modesty, and as a result, it sometimes flies under the radar when it comes to receiving the praise it merits, writes motoring journalist Tim Barnes-Clay.

It consistently ranks among the most reliable manufacturers globally and often leads the way in technological innovations.For example, it’s been two decades since it introduced its first hybrid model, the RX SUV, beating other premium brands to the punch by several years.

However, times have changed. In 2023, Lexus launched the RZ, its first all-electric vehicle developed from the ground up, following the earlier all-electric UX, which was based on a predecessor with hybrid capabilities.

Despite being pretty new, the RZ has already undergone a subtle facelift, although you might struggle to discern any significant alterations. The primary changes include the ushering in of two new top-end models and some adjustments to the powertrain range.
 

As mentioned, I tested the mid-range 500e in the Takumi trim, the highest level available for this powertrain, and it looks stunning in Lexus's vibrant 'Sonic Copper' colour.
With an impressive 0-62mph time of just 4.6 seconds - damn quick for an SUV - and a top speed of 112mph, it's certainly exciting. 

The 550e F Sport, also driven for this review, is only slightly faster, improving the pace by a mere 0.2 seconds with the same maximum speed. The entry-level 350e is still respectable, achieving this in 7.5 seconds, although its top speed is limited to 99mph.

The RZ handles well, providing good grip, but body roll isn't as tightly controlled as that of some premium competitors. The steering becomes more precise with speed, allowing confident cornering.

A cool feature is the One Motion Grip, also known as 'steer-by-wire', which means there's no physical link between the Lexus's steering wheel and the wheels. Instead, input is relayed via sensors, making it highly responsive - needing just 150 degrees to turn from dead centre to full lock. This sensitivity requires adjustment, but it's more stable at higher speeds. It is included as standard on the 550e F Sport.

Ride comfort is good at moderate speeds, although the suspension struggles with rapid bumps at higher speeds. Both the Takumi and F Sport models feature 20-inch wheels, offering a balance between comfort and sportiness.

The RZ is a quiet and comfortable cruiser with some agility, but it's not designed to be a sports car. All-wheel drive models utilise the Direct4 system, which manages power between the front and rear wheels for enhanced stability. However, you'll outpace it if you floor the throttle. 
 

The Lexus RZ presents a bold and futuristic appearance when approached from the front.

In keeping with the design language seen in many modern Lexuses, it features an 'X’-shaped front grille panel, characterised by aggressive diagonal lines that form large arrow-like shapes on either side to accommodate the headlights. The sharply defined bonnet contributes to its formidable presence.

From the side, the RZ possesses a shapely profile, with prominent creases originating from both the top and bottom of the wheel arch, extending back across the doors. The rear door showcases a distinctive jagged edge, while higher up, the bodywork ascends from the C-pillar at the base of the side windows.

The roofline descends, but the rear windscreen's steep angle means that the majority of the slope is attributed to the glass rather than the body itself. The rear view is equally dynamic, featuring two pronounced air intakes on the sides, a horizontal light bar, and lower body cladding that draws attention to the vehicle.

Overall, it's a striking design - bold, modern, and full of character. Ultimately, whether you find the Lexus appealing is, with all things, a matter of personal preference. The 500e in Takumi trim, as tested here, has a striking 14.0-inch infotainment display dominating the centre of the spacious dashboard. This touchscreen boasts vibrant graphics and responds quickly to user input.

However, no rotary dial makes it challenging to navigate the infotainment system. Furthermore, Lexus has integrated the climate controls into the touchscreen, further complicating the system. On a positive note, the voice control feature works effectively.
 

Finding a comfy driving position in the Lexus RZ is a piece of cake, due to its supportive and plush seats, as well as a steering wheel that offers ample adjustment options. They adjust electrically, too - adding a touch of convenience. However, compared with some other SUVs, you'll be seated slightly lower.

Front passengers will enjoy liberal legroom and headroom. Meanwhile, the rear seats offer bags of space for passengers to stretch out comfortably.

The rear seats can recline slightly, but they can’t slide forward or backwards. Nevertheless, with such ample space, this shouldn't pose much of an issue - it's undoubtedly one of the roomiest SUVs in terms of rear legroom.

One drawback is the relatively high floor, which can cause your knees to be positioned higher than the rest of your body; however, the under-thigh support is good. When it comes to boot capacity, you'll find a volume of 522 litres, which is slightly more than some direct rivals, although the Tesla Model Y boasts significantly greater space.

Collapse the rear seats, and the cargo capacity balloons to 1,451 litres, but the seats only fold in a 60:40 split, lacking the more flexible 40:20:40 configuration. No boot lip makes it easy to slide items in and out, and some underfloor storage is available.

On the downside, unlike some electric vehicles, there's no additional 'frunk' for storage underneath the bonnet. And the installation of an infrared heater means there's no glovebox. Interior storage options could be improved, as there's just a small tray for your mobile phone, a couple of cupholders, a cubby in the centre console, and relatively small door bins.
 

The Lexus RZ has upgraded to a more powerful 77kW battery across all trims. 

This enhancement is enough to allow the base 350e model, equipped with 18-inch wheels, to achieve a range of up to 353 miles. However, if you opt for the 20-inch wheels instead, that range decreases to 316 miles.

The 500e version can do 311 miles with the smaller wheels, but this drops to 283 miles when fitted with the larger ones.

As for the 550e, it's exclusively paired with 20-inch rims, yielding a maximum range of 280 miles.

Keep in mind that actual driving conditions may result in a lower range than what's advertised.

The latest Lexus RZ boasts a maximum charging capability of 150kW DC across all models. This should enable a 10-80% top-up in just 30 minutes when utilising Lexus's battery preconditioning feature; however, without it, the same charge will take around 55 minutes.

The onboard charging capacity has also been upgraded, increasing from 11kW to an impressive 22kW AC. Charging to full can now be done in just over three (3.5) hours. It is worth noting, though, that only a limited number of AC chargers currently support these rapid charging speeds. Although you may have the necessary setup at home, many residences can't handle such capabilities, so it's advisable to assess your situation before installation.

As a pure electric vehicle, the RZ clearly doesn't have a miles-per-gallon rating and produces zero carbon emissions. Therefore, it makes it more cost-effective for road tax; however, it's worth noting that the annual road tax of £195 now applies, with the first year available for a tenner.

If you're considering it as a company motor, the RZ's zero emissions could save you some wonga, making it an attractive option due to its low Benefit-in-Kind tax. However, it's essential to mention that any electric vehicle will qualify for similar benefits.

Regarding reliability, Lexus continues to uphold its reputation as one of the most trustworthy brands in the industry, with no signs that this will change anytime soon.

If you're thinking about pulling the trigger on a premium SUV with electric go-go juice, then this Lexus is a fab option.

Not only is the latest RZ practical and spacious, but it also offers a slick and powerful drive, along with a beautifully appointed interior. Furthermore, the factory-fitted features are generous.

If all-wheel drive isn't a necessity for you, we recommend opting for the base 350e model, which delivers ample poke and comes with an extensive range of standard features.

On the negative side, the RZ’s infotainment system can be somewhat convoluted, and the vehicle comes with a substantial price tag.

Nevertheless, when you compare its cost to those of many other high-end electric SUVs, the Lexus RZ starts to appear as good value for money.