Lexus spices up RZ with simulated gearbox

LEXUS has revealed its updated RZ line-up globally, which boasts a redesigned powertrain geared towards performance, turning up the heat on its otherwise sensible electric SUV offering.

This comes just months after the Japanese manufacturer canned its RC F performance range globally – the last model to score a naturally-aspirated V8 engine – suggesting its go-fast focus is electric from here on in.

The range now kicks off with the RZ 500e, with Lexus dropping the 450e variant altogether, and is topped by a new RZ 550e F Sport option that features performance technology like steer-by-wire and a simulated manual ‘box.

Lexus has reworked the dual-motor drive system for the RZ, using e-axles that are more energy efficient, and the Direct4 all-wheel drive system has been fettled too.

According to Lexus, the all-wheel drive system is now capable of sending 100 per cent of the torque to the rear axle, adjusting the torque distribution dynamically, and at corner exit the system will allocate torque to individual wheels based on contact load.

Both models use a larger 16.96kWh battery system, which when paired with more efficient motors, equates to an approximate range of 500km for the RZ 500e and 450km for the slightly peppier RZ 550e F Sport.

The base RZ 500e gets a 50kW power bump over the current model, bringing total outputs to 280kW/537Nm, resulting in a 0-100km/h sprint time of 4.6 seconds.

The RZ 550e F Sport ups the ante, but not by a great deal, offering up 300kW and a slightly quicker sprint time of 4.4 seconds – but it’s in the finer details that the F Sport’s performance focus becomes evident.

Lexus equipped the RZ 550 e F Sport with a yolk-style steering wheel that uses a steer-by-wire system to eliminate the need for large steering inputs – apparently operated across just 200 degrees of rotation.

The range-topper also scores the brand’s Manual Drive system, which is effectively a pretend manual transmission that offers eight gears and engine sounds to mimic the sensations felt in an ICE car.

More practical performance upgrades include sport-tuned suspension, functional brake ducts, a rear spoiler, and 20-inch aluminium wheels that feature aero covers. It’ll also be offered in an exclusive Neutrino Grey hue, reminiscent of the popular Nardo Grey paint offered by Euro makers.

Lexus Australia has confirmed the RZ line-up will be available Down Under but has not yet provided pricing or a specific launch date – indicating that details will become available later this year.