2026 Lexus RZ
2026 Lexus RZ
The updated Lexus RZ finally feels like the EV Lexus was meant to build in the first place with more power, more range, and a sharper driving experience that moves it closer to the segment’s best.
Powertrain
Lexus now offers the RZ with three powertrains: the front-wheel-drive RZ 350e, the RZ 450e with all‑wheel drive, and the new range‑topping RZ 550e F Sport AWD. The 350e uses a single motor good for 224 hp, while the 450e sticks with 313 hp from dual motors but benefits from revised e‑axles and power delivery. The headliner is the 550e F Sport, which cranks output to 408 hp and drops Lexus’ claimed 0–100 km/h time to about 4 seconds.
On the road, the RZ feels more composed than before thanks to increased body rigidity, retuned suspension, and a more sophisticated DIRECT4 all‑wheel‑drive calibration that shuffles torque from front to rear more aggressively under acceleration and cornering. The result is an EV that turns in more eagerly, pitches and dives less, and feels more confident on a twisty back road than the original version. Drivers will appreciate that the steering has more weight and precision, especially with the optional steer‑by‑wire system that reduces hand‑over‑hand shuffling and gives the RZ a more futuristic, almost sports‑car‑like response.
Range and Charging
The RZ’s battery pack grows to a 77‑kWh lithium‑ion unit, and Lexus has comprehensively revised the BEV system to cut losses and boost efficiency. Depending on model trim and wheel size, Lexus suggests range now lands roughly in the 370-480 km window. The most efficient being the front‑drive 350e on smaller wheels while the powerful 550e F Sport on 20‑inch rubber being at the lower end of the driving range.
Charging hardware finally matches the competition better. A new 11‑kW onboard AC charger replaces the old 7‑kW unit, effectively halving Level 2 home or workplace charging times when fed by a capable power source. Under ideal conditions, that means you can go from low state of charge to a full pack in roughly five to six hours on a compatible AC setup, rather than overnight. DC fast‑charging remains the go‑to for road trips, and while peak numbers vary by market and weren’t dramatically changed, software tweaks and battery preconditioning help the updated RZ reach and hold higher rates more consistently, especially in cold weather.
Interior
Inside, the RZ continues to lean into Lexus’s "Time in Design” theme, but the updated model doubles down on quiet and comfort. Additional sound‑deadening, improved motor mounts, and measures to quell road and wind noise make the cabin notably calmer at highway speeds than the earlier RZ. The seating position remains SUV‑like and upright, but the seats themselves offer more sculpting and better long‑distance support, with power adjustment and heating standard on most trims.
Materials feel appropriately premium for a luxury EV, with available leather‑alternative upholstery that looks and feels upmarket while aligning with the RZ’s eco‑conscious mission. Space is competitive for a compact‑to‑midsize electric SUV. There’s generous legroom for front passengers, good headroom even with the panoramic roof, and a rear bench that comfortably accommodates two adults and a child across. The cargo area isn’t class‑leading but is wide and useful, and Lexus’ typically thoughtful storage solutions make day‑to‑day life easy.
Technology
Front and center is Lexus’s latest LexusLink multimedia system, displayed on a standard 14‑inch touchscreen that runs modern, snappy software with large icons and over‑the‑air update capability. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cloud‑based navigation, and improved EV‑specific route planning (including charging stops and battery‑at‑destination estimates) transform the RZ into a much better long‑distance companion. Higher‑trim models add ambient lighting with configurable colors, a premium audio system, and upgraded cameras for a panoramic view monitor.
On the safety front, Lexus Safety System+ is standard and comprehensive, bundling adaptive cruise control, lane‑keeping assistance, blind‑spot monitoring, and forward‑collision mitigation with pedestrian and cyclist detection. The tuning of these systems is smoother than before, with lane‑keeping in particular feeling less “ping‑pongy” and more natural. The available steer‑by‑wire setup also works hand‑in‑hand with the driver‑assist features, making lane‑centering and automated lane changes feel more precise and less fussy.
Pricing
The new RZ350e starts at $59,990 in Canada. The RZ 450e will start at $66,990 with a couple of packages to choose from. Finally, the range-topping RZ 550e F Sport will have a $77,990 price tag.
For buyers who prioritized refinement and reliability but were underwhelmed by the original RZ’s range and specs, the updated model finally brings the numbers and the driving experience in line with the badge on the nose.