The new 2023 Lexus RZ is the brand’s first EV SUV that will arrive next year to the US market. This model will wear the RZ450e designation, and it should be similar in size and shape to the Toyota bZ4X. Moreover, according to Lexus, the upcoming SUV will offer much more horsepower from the new Direct4 AWD setup.
Lexus has shared the first images of the electric crossover, and we must admit it looks much better than any Lexus SUV we saw so far. The design is familiar, and the RZ450e wears an attractive front end that looks very attractive and unique.
2023 Lexus RZ Design
Based on new images, it appears that the 2023 Lexus RZ will be closely related to its sibling Toyota bZ4X. At first glance, both models look to have familiar, distinctly styled front and rear ends, which should separate it from the rest of Lexus models. We first noticed its grille that looks attractive and is fully closed, as on other electric models. As we stated before, there is no need for an open grille and extra cooling because this model uses an electric motor connected to a battery. We like RZ’s razor-edged nose and super-slim LED headlights, which make this model more eye-catchy.
The RZ will also be reportedly the first Lexus model that will use a e-TNGA electric car platform. It’s worth mentioning that this platform is already used by the Toyota bZ4X and its Subaru Solterra twins.
Interior Expectations
At this moment, we don’t have any official information regarding the cabin design of the upcoming 2023 Lexus RZ. Based on some leaks, the forthcoming crossover should be no less comfortable than the Toyota bZ4X. Although, we’re hoping to see a much more upscale cabin with plenty of room to fit five passengers.
The large infotainment is likely, as well as Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration, and probably Amazon Alexa compatibility. The safety should also be great, featuring forward-collision warning, automatic braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.
2023 Lexus RZ Engine Specs
As far as we know, the forthcoming 2023 Lexus RZ model is expecting to wear the RZ450e designation, which suggests more power than the 215 horsepower. So, the new model will probably use a more potent all-wheel-drive two-motor setup compared to the recently introduced bZ4X.
According to Lexus, the powertrain will consist of a 201-horsepower electric motor on both the front and rear axle. The electric motors will draw energy from a very powerful battery. We’re expecting that this SUV will deliver a total amount of 350 or even 400 horsepower.
2023 Lexus RZ Release Date, Price
The 2023 Lexus RZ is an upcoming electric crossover that will likely hit showrooms next year. This SUV looks attractive, and it will have a more sumptuous interior than its Toyota sibling bZ4X. It should also use a new powertrain called Direct4 that will be connected with an electric motor on both the front and rear axle.
We expect the Lexus RZ to start at around $50,000, while the F Sport version will probably cost at least $60,000 or even more. The forthcoming Lexus RZ when arriving will face off against rivals like the Tesla Model Y, Audi Q4 e-tron, and Mercedes-Benz EQC.