Lexus RZ First Generation (2023-present)

Single generation since 2023. Built at Toyota Motomachi, Japan on e-TNGA platform shared with Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra. Launched as RZ 450e (US-only initial trim): dual-motor AWD with front and rear electric motors providing 313 hp combined / 320 lb-ft, ~5.0 sec 0-60. 71.4 kWh battery (64 kWh usable — same battery as bZ4X / Solterra), 400V architecture. ~220 mi EPA range on RZ 450e — disappointing for a $59k+ luxury EV, well behind the segment leaders Cadillac Lyriq (~314 mi) and Mercedes EQE SUV (~285 mi). DC fast-charging peak 150 kW with the same aggressive charging-curve taper as bZ4X — drops sharply after 60% SOC, making practical fast-charging slow vs Korean 800V rivals. 2024 RZ 300e variant added for the US market: single-motor FWD, 268 hp, ~266 mi EPA range — the FWD trim providing the segment's best Lexus EV range while sacrificing AWD. Cabin: dual 14-inch touchscreen + 12.3-inch driver display standard on Premium and up, Mark Levinson 13-speaker premium audio optional, distinctive 'One-Motion Grip' yoke steering wheel option — Lexus's signature differentiation feature. The yoke is connected to a steer-by-wire system that varies steering ratio with vehicle speed (more turning at low speed for parking, less at high speed for stability). The yoke system requires only ~150 degrees of total rotation (vs 360+ degrees on a conventional steering wheel) — designed to make city driving and parking easier without hand-over-hand turning. Polarizing in reception: some reviewers love the modern, clean feel, while many find it awkward in parking lots, U-turns, and low-speed precision maneuvering. Standard equipment: Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 ADAS, panoramic glass roof, heated/ventilated front seats, available Lexus Interface infotainment with Lexus Concierge connected services. Trims: Premium (~$59k base), Luxury (top — Mark Levinson, head-up display, 20-inch wheels). Pricing $59k-$68k. The RZ has been commercially disappointing — slow sales since launch, range disappointment, and the bZ4X / Solterra wheel-detach recall stigma has affected the RZ by association even though the RZ wasn't directly affected. 2026 model year brings significant updates: improved range (target ~250-280 mi), NACS port adoption (matches Toyota's industry move), refreshed front fascia, updated software. The RZ qualifies for federal tax credit if leased (Japan build means purchase eligibility under IRA spotty, but lease pathway works).