The Lexus RZ receives substantial updates and an F Sport variant
Just as Toyota debuted heavy updates to its new e-TNGA-equipped models in the bZ4x and CH-R+, it’s only natural that its more luxurious offering, the Lexus RZ would benefit from these inherent changes. This time around, it seems that the RZ gets a heftier update and a new sporty variant as well.
The improved eAxles are present for improved power output and efficiency, including a high-output 77kWh battery with an onboard 22kW AC charger and battery pre-conditioning function, and the range is touted to have been improved up to 100km over the previous RZ.
The Direct4 vehicle motion control tech has been updated to improve acceleration and stability, reduce vehicle pitch and roll during cornering, and there is water cooling for the battery and BEV system, allowing for improved performance across all speeds, and improved soundproofing, suspension tuning, and chassis stiffness over the previous model.
The steer-by-wire system that was shown off in demos before finally makes its debut, which explains the yoke-style steering wheel present in the car.
It’s an electronically operated steering system with a range of operation of 200 degrees from neutral to full left or right lock. It has a dynamic steering gear ratio that adjusts feedback and weight feedback depending on the driving conditions.
It’s available in three different variants with varying power outputs and maximum range figures:
- RZ 350e – 224 horsepower (165 kW) and 268.6Nm, front-wheel drive, up to 575km
- RZ 500e – 380 horsepower (280 kW) and 268.6Nm, all-wheel drive, up to 500km
- RZ 550e F Sport – 408 horsepower (300 kW), and 268.6Nm, all-wheel drive, up to 450km
Visually, the RZ is identical to the previous generation, other than the addition of new Ultrasuede interior trims and a new “dynamic shadow effect” for the multi-color ambient lighting. Otherwise, the most noteworthy improvement comes from the F Sport variant.
Apart from being the most powerful variant, it has F Sport styling with more aggressive bumpers and functional brake ducts, a small rear spoiler, aerodynamic 20-inch wheels, and an exclusive two-tone Neutrino Gray x Black finish.
The interior also receives a Black x Dark Gray finish with blue accents, F-Sport scuff plates, steering wheel, aluminum pedals, and improved bolstering on the front seats.
Apart from a retuned, stiffer suspension for a more engaging drive, Lexus debuts the Interactive Manual Drive system, which simulates a transmission via feedback and sound, similar to Hyundai’s N-e Shift system.
Using the paddle shifters, the driver can row through eight virtual gears, each with a corresponding powerband, fake engine sounds, and even a rev limiter with an indicator in the digital instrument cluster to let you know when it’s time to shift.
The new tech found in the RZ 550e F Sport is exciting as it may preview how Toyota Gazoo Racing may carry over the tech that will make its electrified vehicles more engaging to drive.
As for the new updates, it is simply a matter of time before Lexus Philippines will be introducing it to our market, and we hope that includes the RZ 550e F Sport, too.|
Photos from Lexus
