Lexus RZ Teases All-New Electrified RX-Infused SUV

The all-new electrified Lexus RZ shares a similar side profile to the Lexus RX and the sleek rear end of the 2023 Toyota bZ4x.

Lexus USA this morning unveiled teaser images and a video for the “all-new electrified Lexus RZ.” There’s no much to report in terms of specs, pricing, or availability. But based on its size and a few design elements, lets’ presume the RZ is the Lexus version of the Toyota bZ4x.

Built on the brand-new e-TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture), the bZ — which stands for Beyond Zero — claims up to 250 miles of range with a front-wheel-drive configuration. It will also be available in all-wheel-drive for “light off-roading,” inclement whether and, one hopes, added performance.  And Toyota being Toyota, the engineers designed the bZ4x’s battery pack to retain 90% of battery capacity even after 10 years.

2023 Toyota bZ4x (left); 2022 Lexus RX (right)

Also, based on the pictured side profile, there’s a lot of Lexus RX DNA in the forthcoming RZ. And with the R in the model’s name, it appears Lexus plans to carry over its current naming structure to future electrified models. Speaking of which, it’s interesting that Lexus refers to the RZ with the slightly vague term of “electrified.” Are they leaving room for a hybrid? Given the timing and the Z naming structure, probably not. We suspect the RZ is all-electric.

Fun Factor

After spending a week with a 2022 Lexus NX prototype (review HERE!), I couldn’t help but wonder how the experience could improve had the vehicle been an EV. The hybrid NX 350h surely sips fuel. And it offers a massive 400+ mile range. But acceleration and handling are lackluster. EVs benefit from lower centers of gravity as well as instant torque. Add in some type of dual-motor AWD system and you can expect a peppy driving experience with less body roll than a similarly sized gas-powered vehicle.

In other words, EVs tend to be faster and more fun despite the added weight.

Rear End Design

Looking at the RZ’s rear, it’s easy to see how Lexus designers are infusing the new wrap-around LED lighting from the new NX and LX 600, but in a slightly more minimalist fashion similar to the bZ4x.

Lexus RZ

2022 Lexus NX

2023 Toyota bZ4x

Lexus RZ Full Teaser Video

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Images & Video: Lexus, Toyota, & Michael S. Palmer

Michael S. Palmer

Michael S. Palmer began his career assisting and developing content for Academy Award-winning and studio-based film and television producers. He has been a professional writer since 2008, when he joined the Writers Guild of America West (WGAw). As a journalist and Content Editor/Manager, he has covered numerous emerging imaging, theatrical exhibition, home entertainment, and automotive technologies. He currently spends his days creating original content at the Internet Brands Automotive Group for some of the world's largest online automotive communities, including Ford Truck Enthusiasts, CorvetteForum, ClubLexus, AudiWorld, and LS1Tech. He still owns his first car, a 1987 Mercury Cougar; adores driving his Boss 302 Mustang; and recently teamed with Chevrolet Performance, Holley, Magnaflow, Eaton, Wilwood, Michelin, Chemical Guys, Summit Racing to build his first project car. Installing an LS3 E-ROD Connect & Cruise system into a 1992 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon made his eight-passenger wagon faster than a C5 Corvette to 60mph and 50 state emissions legal. His wife and daughter are very patient.