2023 Lexus RZ 450e Revealed! We Have All the Details
A new all-wheel drive system, steer by wire, advanced technologies, and a new design language are a few of the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e highlights.
The all-new 2023 Lexus RZ 450e is the brand’s first global Battery EV (BEV) and brings a unique driving experience based on the ‘Lexus Electrified’ vision. Today Lexus has taken the wraps off this extremely important model, and we now know all the details. There is a lot to cover here. But one thing we are excited about straight away is the fact that it seems to have a traditional steering wheel, and not the yoke that was teased a couple weeks ago. At least not initially. Whew!
The RZ 450e is monumental because it is the first step in an aggressive all-electric strategy for Lexus. It is the first BEV for the brand and by 2035 they expect to have a 100 percent BEV portfolio globally. The all-new RZ marks Lexus’ transition into a BEV-centered brand. Since this is the direction the company will follow in the future they want to make sure the first model is a successful and memorable one. So with that, let’s take a look at what we now know about the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e.
Performance
We assumed that the Lexus RZ 450e would make more power than the Toyota bZ4X and it appears to be true. The RZ has dual motors. Upfront is a motor that generates 201 horsepower which is the same as you get in the Toyota. However, the Lexus also has a rear motor that is good for 107 horsepower. No acceleration figures were released but the quickest Toyota bZ4X is expected to hit 60 mph in about 6.5 seconds. It could be a safe bet to expect the Lexus to be a full second quicker. The expected range in a single charge is 225 miles when the RZ is equipped with 18-inch wheels. Th performance theme is carried over to the sound department. “Lexus created expressive in-cabin sounds to convey the exhilaration of driving. Engineers matched sound frequencies to the vehicle’s speed and sound levels during dynamic actions such as acceleration.”
DIRECT4
An all-new all-wheel drive system called DIRECT4 will be available on the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e. This system is not designed for just low traction situations, but to also enhance performance driving and responsiveness. “The DIRECT4 distribution control uses wheel vehicle speed, acceleration, and steering angle sensor information to control front to rear drive force ratio distribution between 100:0 and 0:100. This contributes to improved start-up acceleration, handling stability, and low power consumption. The system uses an approximate front-to-rear drive force ratio distribution between 60:40 and 40:60 to minimize vehicle pitch during launch and straight-line acceleration, thereby achieving a direct acceleration feel.” The system also monitors cornering speed and steering angle to optimize torque split for the best acceleration and traction in all conditions.
Steer By Wire
Available at a future date will be a Lexus-first steer by wire system. “The control’s steering angle is set at approximately 150 degrees, thus greatly reducing the driver’s workload and eliminating the need for hand-over-hand operation at intersections, U-turns, parking, winding roads, and other driving situations. Unhindered by a sizeable standard steering wheel, designers crafted the steering control’s compact shape and lowered the instrument meter’s placement to encourage driver engagement and environmental awareness.” So, this is where we would likely see the steering yoke and maybe it will actually make sense in this application as opposed to what Tesla does in the Model S Plaid.
Aerodynamic Shape
The design of the RZ was driven by performance. It has the familiar Lexus spindle front end but the whole vehicle was designed to control airflow. The center roof, the ducktail shape on the trunk, the smooth undercarriage, the front grille shutters. It is all there to help reduce drag and generate downforce. Lexus wants the RZ to be economical but also have a dynamic driving feel. Overall, it is a nice design. It looks good but doesn’t break any new ground. In other words, it looks like a Lexus.
A Welcoming Interior
Omotenashi. It means hospitality and that was the goal of the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e interior. It is meant to be welcoming and comfortable. I nice place to spend time. It does appear that they met that goal. The RZ has a light and airy feel. Everything flows well together, and the materials used seem to be typical Lexus top notch quality. For a bit of flair there is what Lexus calls “Shadowy Illumination.” It changes the shade of light projected on the door trim when the doors are opened and closed. “The RZ will feature the North American-developed Lexus Interface multimedia system recently launched on the NX and LX. The system will be accessible via voice commands and a 14-inch touchscreen.”
Advanced Technology
Do you like acronyms? The RZ 450e comes with a boatload of them. There is PCS, DRCC, LDA, EDSS, and LTA to name a few. These are all safety features. Pre-Collision System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, Emergency Driving Stop System, and Lane Trace Assist. There is also an available Advanced Park system with remote function that now includes parallel parking. While you are not being bothered to park the car yourself you can enjoy the panoramic roof. It is equipped with a Lexus-first, available dimming function, which instantly reduces the amount of light entering the cabin area.
Stay Informed
The official reveal gave us a lot of information but there are still many open questions. Things like how much will all of this cost are still unknown. We expect the RZ to be on sale by the end of this year, so we will be sharing additional information as it becomes available. You can also follow along with Lexus by clicking here. What are your thoughts on the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e? Let us know in the Club Lexus forums.
Photos: Lexus
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