Latest news with #LexusRZ
Miami Herald
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
2026 Lexus RZ Updates Revealed, Everything You Need to Know
Three years after introducing its first electric vehicle, Lexus has upgraded the RZ for the 2026 model year, making this sleek SUV a more worthy competitor. It will now come as the 221-horsepower RZ 350e with front-wheel drive, the 308-horsepower RZ 450e with all-wheel drive, and the new, range-topping 402-horsepower RZ 550e F Sport also with all-wheel drive. The three models reportedly have 0-60 mph times of 7.2 seconds, 4.9 seconds, and 4.2 seconds, respectively. Range has also increased, with Lexus quoting 300 miles for the RZ 350e FWD, 260 miles for the RZ 450e AWD with 18-inch tires, and 225 miles on the new RZ 550e F SPORT AWD with 20-inch tires. The RZ now sports a North American Charging System charging port on the passenger side for charging at Tesla Superchargers. Filling the battery pack from 10% to 80% requires about 30 minutes using a DC fast charger. If more power is at the top of your checklist, the RZ 550e F Sport is for you, albeit at the expense of range. Interestingly, Lexus has fitted its trim-topping model with M Mode, a virtual gearbox that simulates manual gear shifting via paddle shifters. If this sounds familiar, that's because Ferrari and Hyundai already have it. The RZ 550e F Sport also wears the appropriate go-fast attire, with a black emblem, rear spoiler, front and rear bumper moldings, front grille, and 20-inch wheels. Its cabin proves equally sweet, lined in black Ultrasuede with blue stitching and with a panoramic glass roof, aluminum pedals and footrests, and an F Sport steering wheel. While the new Lexus RZ's upgrades help keep it competitive, the automaker's plan to build it in Japan means that it won't be eligible for a federal tax credit, should that survive the onslaught by Congress. Then again, Lexus hasn't released pricing yet, promising to do so closer to the 2026 Lexus RZ's on-sale date. Currently, the 2025 RZ starts at $43,795 and tops out at $58,605 with lower range figures, but given the specter of tariffs, those prices will likely increase. So far, at least, it seems like the 2026 Lexus RZ's longer range and higher performance should be well worth the wait, along with what is likely to be a higher price. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Motor 1
22-05-2025
- Automotive
- Motor 1
Lexus's First EV Has Fake Shifts
The Lexus RZ is the brand's first dedicated battery-electric vehicle—a swept-back crossover with some visual inspiration from the former Lexus CT hatchback. It's a huge deal for Lexus to have a nice-looking competitor in the space, but one of the RZ's key features got lost in the initial assault of press materials: The RZ will have fake shifts and a simulated drivetrain noise, following industry-bucking trends set by Hyundai and, of all automakers, Ferrari. Lexus calls its simulated system "Interactive Manual Drive," which is aimed at "allowing for a deeper and more engaging dialogue with the car." Uh... sure. Photo by: Lexus The IMD system allows RZ drivers to "shift" virtual gears using the paddles behind the car's steering wheel, similar to the system found in the excellent Ioniq 5N . Even though you know the shifts and drivetrain noises are faked, if both are done convincingly enough, the cumulative effect is that it makes you feel much more in control of and involved in the driving experience. And don't knock those fake gears until you've tried them; they blew my mind last year at Laguna Seca. Per Lexus's video, its system is activated by pressing an "M Mode" button on the center console—we presume that "M" means "Manual"—sending shift operation to the aforementioned paddles and prodding the speakers to life, filling the cabin with simulated powertrain noise in the vague stylings of a porpoise in mourning and/or a person blowing through a straw. Here's the system in action: The RZ's behavior in IMD mode responds in kind to its driver's inputs, accounting for the position of the accelerator pedal in addition to input from the car's "virtual power source" and "virtual transmission" to deliver power to the wheels. Then the ECU decides how much power it thinks you want and how you want that power delivered and... sends that amount of power to the wheels. A Shift Guide Meter on the dash display acts as a tachometer would, showing the driver shift points along the simulated power band. The RZ imitates an eight-speed transmission by cutting power momentarily to simulate a shift before running back up the virtual tachometer/power meter. There's an automatic mode that'll still simulate shifts for you, in addition to the steering-wheel paddles, which can shift the virtual transmission's "gears." Photo by: Lexus Lexus's so-called Interactive Manual Drive Sound is "the exclusive sound" paired with this Lexus IMD system. In the video demo it sounds an awful lot like someone hand whistling, mixed in with some vaguely mechanical noises. But also not dissimilar to a wailing sea creature. That's in stark contrast with Hyundai's system that's baked into the IONIQ 5N, wherein you can change the simulated powertrain noises to sound like a Tron bike or a literal fighter jet. That said, we're happy more companies are trying to bring some analog elements back to the EV driving experience, even if they're simulated. While Lexus's seems underwhelming (we'll reserve final judgement for an actual drive of the RZ), it's better to have something to inform our central nervous system about the speed and attitude of the drivetrain, even if it's simulated. Hyundai already proved the concept, and emphatically so. Our only advice for Lexus, to drag the RZ up to par: Give us an LFA DLC that makes the RZ crossover sound like V-10 fury and shift with the violent immediacy of an automated manual with straight-cut gears. That's a simulated powertrain we can get behind. The Latest From Lexus Toyota's Simulated Gearbox Is Coming to America This Lexus IS500 Special Edition Is the Rarest V-8 of All Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
Malaysian Reserve
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- Malaysian Reserve
2026 LEXUS RZ ADDS MORE POWER AND PERFORMANCE
New, extended lineup offers more power, greater efficiency, and dynamic performance Optimization of the battery electric system increases range and shortens charge times Expanded lineup includes RZ 550e F SPORT AWD with Lexus-first virtual manual gear shift system (M Mode) to promote an engaging driving experience PLANO, Texas, May 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The enhanced 2026 Lexus RZ made its North American debut today. The battery electric luxury SUV features comprehensive revisions that deliver more power, greater range, and a new driving experience. Since the launch of the RX 400h in 2005, Lexus has been a pioneer in electrification within the luxury market. Based on its electrification vision 'Lexus Electrified', Lexus aims to promote a multi-pathway approach to the adoption of electric vehicles such as HEVs (hybrid vehicles), PHEVs (plug-in hybrid vehicles) and BEVs (battery electric vehicles) to address the diverse needs of its customers and markets. Additionally, Lexus works to significantly enhance basic performance using electrification technology, offering a driving experience and lifestyle unique to Lexus BEVs. The RZ launched in 2023 and was Lexus' first globally available, purpose-built battery-electric vehicle, embodying the unique Lexus driving experience and design brought by electrification technology. Following its debut, the RZ has evolved with customer needs, bringing to market a front-wheel-drive (FWD) option in 2024 to expand the driving range. The 2026 RZ features a redesigned battery electric system, delivering increased motor output, an extended driving range, and reduced charging times under ideal conditions. In addition, it debuts a new addition to the lineup—the RZ 550e F SPORT AWD, which is equipped with higher-output front and rear motors, achieving a more powerful and exhilarating driving experience. The RZ lineup will have three different power options: 221 total system horsepower (RZ 350e FWD), 308 total system horsepower (RZ 450e AWD), and 402 total system horsepower (RZ 550e F SPORT AWD). With a diverse lineup, the new RZ is designed to meet the needs of a broad range of drivers, from those who prioritize daily convenience and practicality to those who want a more engaging and dynamic driving experience. The 2026 RZ is assembled at the Motomachi plant in Japan and is expected to go on sale later this year. Introduction of the RZ 550e F SPORT AWDF SPORT arrives to the RZ lineup, giving customers an option for a more exhilarating driving experience and sportier styling. The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD generates a maximum system output of 402 total system horsepower, making it the most powerful RZ model. Lexus-first M ModeLexus is also introducing M Mode on the 2026 RZ 550e F SPORT AWD, an electronic system that provides virtual manual gear shifting via paddle shifters. This innovation helps to deliver a sportier, more responsive driving feel. M Mode is a system that allows drivers to control power output with paddle shifters, as if using a manual transmission. Exterior Designed for PerformanceThe RZ 550e F SPORT AWD has an exterior design that includes distinctive black F SPORT features such as the F SPORT emblem, rear spoiler, front and rear bumper moldings, front grille, and 20-inch wheels with aero covers, which contribute to weight reduction and help to improve energy efficiency by smoothing airflow. The F SPORT model will be available in an exclusive new color, Wind, a solid light gray with subtle metallic highlight—a bold contrast to the black F SPORT features. In total, seven exterior monotone colors and four exterior bi-tone colors will be offered across the RZ lineup. Increased Driving Range and Faster ChargingThe 2026 RZ adopts the North American Charging System (NACS) charging port (SAE J3400) on the passenger's side of the vehicle. It will also have Level One and Level Two AC charging with a higher capacity 11-kW on-board AC charger (up from 7-kW capacity on the prior model year). Under ideal conditions when using DC fast charging* it is capable of charging from 10% to 80% battery capacity in around 30 minutes. The vehicle comes with an improved EPA-estimated driving range of approximately 300 miles for the RZ 350e FWD and approximately 260 miles for the RZ 450e AWD when equipped with 18-inch tires and charged under ideal conditions. The new RZ 550e F SPORT AWD sees an EPA-estimated driving range of approximately 225 miles when equipped with 20-inch tires and charged under ideal conditions. *Ranges and charging times will vary depending on weather and other factors. Lexus Driving SignatureLexus Driving Signature (LDS) is a guiding philosophy behind the development of Lexus vehicles, providing a unified driving experience across the lineup. LDS emphasizes a linear connection between the driver and vehicle and promotes a smoother, more comfortable ride. There is also exceptional quietness unique to Lexus BEVs, achieved through source-level noise and vibration suppression. The Evolution of the RZ InteriorThe 2026 RZ's cabin remains a minimalist, yet airy and maximally appointed luxury environment. The 2026 RZ will offer an improved Dynamic Sky™ Panorama Glass Roof, enabling greater shading when opaque and a clearer view of the outside when transparent. The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD interior features a sophisticated combination of Black Ultrasuede® interior trim with blue stitching accents available only on this grade. The design includes a center console with a micro-geometric pattern design, front F SPORT scuff plates, a steering wheel with the F SPORT emblem, and aluminum pedals and footrests, all designed to create a sporty driving experience. A Lexus-first, the available Ultrasuede® door trim features a laser-etched pattern design. Following the introduction of Door Trim Shadow Illumination on the RZ in 2023, Lexus has applied another first, adding a subtle flickering movement on the door trim that results in the available Thematic Illumination with Animated Door Trim Shadow Illumination. Based on Lexus' design philosophy 'Time in Design,' the faintly changing shadow patterns evoke the passage of time, providing a comfortable cabin experience for the vehicle's occupants. Full vehicle specs and pricing will be available closer to the on-sale date. 2026 RZ Preliminary Specifications Powertrain RZ 350e RZ 450e AWD RZ 550e F SPORT AWD Overall Length 189.2 in Overall Width 74.6 in Overall Height 64.4 in Wheelbase 112.2 in Vehicle Weight 4,500 lbs.*3 4,750 lbs.*3 5,000 lbs.*3 Tire Size 18／20-inch 18／20-inch 20-inch Estimated Range Approx: 300miles*1 *3 Approx: 260 miles*1 *3 Approx: 225 miles*1 *2 Estimated Electrical Consumption 266 Wh/mile*1 *3 306 Wh/mile*1 *3 353 Wh/mile*1 *2 Total Electrical Power 74.69 kWh*4 76.96 kWh*4 Connector Type North American Charging System (NACS) (SAE J3400) Onboard Charger Output 11 kW System Max Output 165 kW (221 hp) 230 kW (308 hp) 300 kW (402 hp) Acceleration (0-60) 7.2 sec 4.9 sec 4.1 sec *1 Provisional testing *2 20-inch tires *3 18-inch tires *4 The batteries are calculated according to IEC 62660-1 About Lexus Lexus' passion for brave design, imaginative technology, and exhilarating performance enables the luxury lifestyle brand to create amazing experiences for its customers. Lexus began its journey in 1989 with two luxury sedans and a commitment to pursue perfection. Since then, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of global luxury customers in more than 90 countries. In the United States, Lexus vehicles are sold through 244 dealers offering a full lineup of luxury vehicles. With nine models incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader. Lexus also offers nine F SPORT models, one F performance model and one F model. Lexus is committed to being a visionary brand that anticipates the future for luxury customers. MEDIA CONTACTSBrooke
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
2026 LEXUS RZ ADDS MORE POWER AND PERFORMANCE
New, extended lineup offers more power, greater efficiency, and dynamic performance Optimization of the battery electric system increases range and shortens charge times Expanded lineup includes RZ 550e F SPORT AWD with Lexus-first virtual manual gear shift system (M Mode) to promote an engaging driving experience PLANO, Texas, May 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The enhanced 2026 Lexus RZ made its North American debut today. The battery electric luxury SUV features comprehensive revisions that deliver more power, greater range, and a new driving experience. Since the launch of the RX 400h in 2005, Lexus has been a pioneer in electrification within the luxury market. Based on its electrification vision "Lexus Electrified", Lexus aims to promote a multi-pathway approach to the adoption of electric vehicles such as HEVs (hybrid vehicles), PHEVs (plug-in hybrid vehicles) and BEVs (battery electric vehicles) to address the diverse needs of its customers and markets. Additionally, Lexus works to significantly enhance basic performance using electrification technology, offering a driving experience and lifestyle unique to Lexus BEVs. The RZ launched in 2023 and was Lexus' first globally available, purpose-built battery-electric vehicle, embodying the unique Lexus driving experience and design brought by electrification technology. Following its debut, the RZ has evolved with customer needs, bringing to market a front-wheel-drive (FWD) option in 2024 to expand the driving range. The 2026 RZ features a redesigned battery electric system, delivering increased motor output, an extended driving range, and reduced charging times under ideal conditions. In addition, it debuts a new addition to the lineup—the RZ 550e F SPORT AWD, which is equipped with higher-output front and rear motors, achieving a more powerful and exhilarating driving experience. The RZ lineup will have three different power options: 221 total system horsepower (RZ 350e FWD), 308 total system horsepower (RZ 450e AWD), and 402 total system horsepower (RZ 550e F SPORT AWD). With a diverse lineup, the new RZ is designed to meet the needs of a broad range of drivers, from those who prioritize daily convenience and practicality to those who want a more engaging and dynamic driving experience. The 2026 RZ is assembled at the Motomachi plant in Japan and is expected to go on sale later this year. Introduction of the RZ 550e F SPORT AWDF SPORT arrives to the RZ lineup, giving customers an option for a more exhilarating driving experience and sportier styling. The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD generates a maximum system output of 402 total system horsepower, making it the most powerful RZ model. Lexus-first M ModeLexus is also introducing M Mode on the 2026 RZ 550e F SPORT AWD, an electronic system that provides virtual manual gear shifting via paddle shifters. This innovation helps to deliver a sportier, more responsive driving feel. M Mode is a system that allows drivers to control power output with paddle shifters, as if using a manual transmission. Exterior Designed for PerformanceThe RZ 550e F SPORT AWD has an exterior design that includes distinctive black F SPORT features such as the F SPORT emblem, rear spoiler, front and rear bumper moldings, front grille, and 20-inch wheels with aero covers, which contribute to weight reduction and help to improve energy efficiency by smoothing airflow. The F SPORT model will be available in an exclusive new color, Wind, a solid light gray with subtle metallic highlight—a bold contrast to the black F SPORT features. In total, seven exterior monotone colors and four exterior bi-tone colors will be offered across the RZ lineup. Increased Driving Range and Faster ChargingThe 2026 RZ adopts the North American Charging System (NACS) charging port (SAE J3400) on the passenger's side of the vehicle. It will also have Level One and Level Two AC charging with a higher capacity 11-kW on-board AC charger (up from 7-kW capacity on the prior model year). Under ideal conditions when using DC fast charging* it is capable of charging from 10% to 80% battery capacity in around 30 minutes. The vehicle comes with an improved EPA-estimated driving range of approximately 300 miles for the RZ 350e FWD and approximately 260 miles for the RZ 450e AWD when equipped with 18-inch tires and charged under ideal conditions. The new RZ 550e F SPORT AWD sees an EPA-estimated driving range of approximately 225 miles when equipped with 20-inch tires and charged under ideal conditions. *Ranges and charging times will vary depending on weather and other factors. Lexus Driving SignatureLexus Driving Signature (LDS) is a guiding philosophy behind the development of Lexus vehicles, providing a unified driving experience across the lineup. LDS emphasizes a linear connection between the driver and vehicle and promotes a smoother, more comfortable ride. There is also exceptional quietness unique to Lexus BEVs, achieved through source-level noise and vibration suppression. The Evolution of the RZ InteriorThe 2026 RZ's cabin remains a minimalist, yet airy and maximally appointed luxury environment. The 2026 RZ will offer an improved Dynamic Sky™ Panorama Glass Roof, enabling greater shading when opaque and a clearer view of the outside when transparent. The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD interior features a sophisticated combination of Black Ultrasuede® interior trim with blue stitching accents available only on this grade. The design includes a center console with a micro-geometric pattern design, front F SPORT scuff plates, a steering wheel with the F SPORT emblem, and aluminum pedals and footrests, all designed to create a sporty driving experience. A Lexus-first, the available Ultrasuede® door trim features a laser-etched pattern design. Following the introduction of Door Trim Shadow Illumination on the RZ in 2023, Lexus has applied another first, adding a subtle flickering movement on the door trim that results in the available Thematic Illumination with Animated Door Trim Shadow Illumination. Based on Lexus' design philosophy "Time in Design," the faintly changing shadow patterns evoke the passage of time, providing a comfortable cabin experience for the vehicle's occupants. Full vehicle specs and pricing will be available closer to the on-sale date. 2026 RZ Preliminary Specifications Powertrain RZ 350e RZ 450e AWD RZ 550e F SPORT AWD Overall Length 189.2 in Overall Width 74.6 in Overall Height 64.4 in Wheelbase 112.2 in Vehicle Weight 4,500 lbs.*3 4,750 lbs.*3 5,000 lbs.*3 Tire Size 18／20-inch 18／20-inch 20-inch Estimated Range Approx: 300miles*1 *3 Approx: 260 miles*1 *3 Approx: 225 miles*1 *2 Estimated Electrical Consumption 266 Wh/mile*1 *3 306 Wh/mile*1 *3 353 Wh/mile*1 *2 Total Electrical Power 74.69 kWh*4 76.96 kWh*4 Connector Type North American Charging System (NACS) (SAE J3400) Onboard Charger Output 11 kW System Max Output 165 kW (221 hp) 230 kW (308 hp) 300 kW (402 hp) Acceleration (0-60) 7.2 sec 4.9 sec 4.1 sec *1 Provisional testing *2 20-inch tires *3 18-inch tires *4 The batteries are calculated according to IEC 62660-1 About Lexus Lexus' passion for brave design, imaginative technology, and exhilarating performance enables the luxury lifestyle brand to create amazing experiences for its customers. Lexus began its journey in 1989 with two luxury sedans and a commitment to pursue perfection. Since then, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of global luxury customers in more than 90 countries. In the United States, Lexus vehicles are sold through 244 dealers offering a full lineup of luxury vehicles. With nine models incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader. Lexus also offers nine F SPORT models, one F performance model and one F model. Lexus is committed to being a visionary brand that anticipates the future for luxury customers. MEDIA CONTACTSBrooke View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Lexus Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Car and Driver
16-05-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
View Interior Photos of the 2026 Lexus RZ
If you want to shift the Lexus RZ into gear, you'll need to operate this rotary knob (press the P button to put it into Park).
