Lexus Enhances RZ Luxury EV with New Shifts, Sounds, and Increased Power
Lexus is updating its all-electric RZ for the 2025 model year, introducing several enhancements, including a new performance-oriented F Sport model, a refined steer-by-wire system, and an intriguing simulated shifting technology complemented by an “immersive sound” system.
Lexus revealed the updated RZ in Brussels, with a planned launch in the fall of 2025. The refreshed RZ will feature an RZ 550e F Sport model, a next-generation steer-by-wire system, and an improved range. The addition of simulated shifting seeks to synchronize with the “immersive sound” system.
Lexus’s updated RZ lineup, showcased in Belgium, is expected to arrive at dealerships this fall. Key updates include a new 550e F Sport variant, an increase in battery capacity, and a redesigned drive system. Furthermore, it will incorporate simulated shifting technology, a new immersive sound system, and the second generation of its steer-by-wire system.
Lexus highlights a completely redesigned battery-electric vehicle system backed by a larger battery. The updated RZ now houses a 76.96-kWh battery pack, an upgrade from the current 71.4-kWh battery powering the existing RZ.
The battery powers a single electric motor at the front in the RZ 350e, now producing 221 hp, a 20-hp increase over the existing RZ 300e model in the US. The all-wheel-drive, dual-motor RZ 500e uses the same battery pack as the RZ 350e, but its configuration generates 375 hp. This represents a 67-hp increase compared to the current RZ 450e. The refresh also introduces a more powerful model, the RZ 550e F Sport, boasting 402 hp.
These specifications are based on European models. Lexus has indicated that US-specific details will be released at a later date. However, substantial power differences are not anticipated during its transition to the US market.
In addition to the power upgrades, Lexus is introducing a feature called Manual Drive. This system offers the driver simulated gear changes in conjunction with a sound enhancement system. Though not entirely novel, it’s a first for Lexus, and such systems could become more common in performance-oriented BEVs going forward.
The updated RZ will also incorporate the next generation of the company’s steer-by-wire system. Originally intended for the launch of the original RZ, the technology now appears ready to market.
Lexus plans to gradually roll out the updated RZ starting this fall, though the exact regions for the initial launch have not been confirmed.
With these updates, a price increase is likely, potentially surpassing the current starting price of $43,975.
