The Lexus RZ is a more upscale version of the Toyota bZ4X and its first all-electric SUV. The RZ 450e is an all-wheel-drive vehicle that employs a ‘Direct4’ system and comes with a front-mounted electric motor with 150 kW and a rear-mounted electric motor with 80 kW giving it extra punch. Together, they produce 230 kW or 308 bhp and a decent 44.35 kgm of torque. It retains the 71.4-kWh battery pack, and Lexus claims that it has a range of 362 km on a full charge.
The RZ 450e is similar in size to the current NX, which is powered by a combustion engine. By the way, we’ve already driven the NX 350h in India, you can read all about it here. Back to the RZ 450e, then. Its exterior design retains Lexus’s ‘spindle grille’ concept, albeit the spindle shape has been incorporated into the vehicle’s front body rather than a typical ICE grille. New headlamps have been developed to mix in with the spindle shape, and a split roof spoiler helps increase airflow and stability at the back, while a classic Lexus light bar runs the length of the car.
The interior is based on Lexus’ tazuna design idea, which has evolved through time. The vehicle features a big head-up display and a 14-inch infotainment system, as well as a number of standard controls that have been removed. A wide panoramic roof and radiant heaters are two significant add ons. If you fancy a yoke instead of a steering wheel, then you can opt for the yoke steering wheel as well. Apart from looking different than a regular steering wheel, Lexus says the system requires less input as the drivers can do a full lock with a 150-degree turn of the yoke. Get this to India already, Lexus!
