The 2025 Lexus RZ brings more options to consumers in the BEV marketplace, adding the entry-level grade to its RZ 300e and RZ 450e AWD lineup. With this addition, the RZ now offers three grades as it continues to showcase a minimal yet refined interior and a smooth, quiet ride that's become synonymous with the Lexus brand.

The 2025 RZ is built at the Motomachi Plant in Toyota City, Japan, and goes on sale later this year. Powered by a 72.8kWh Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) lithium-ion battery and offered only with FWD, the RZ 300e realizes a total system horsepower rating of 201. The RZ 300e has an EPA-estimated range rating of 266 miles when equipped with 18" wheels and an EPA-estimated MPGe rating of 137/112/125 (city/highway/combined). With 20" wheels, the EPA-estimated range rating is 224 miles and EPA-estimated MPGe rating is 114/96/105.

A subframe has been adopted for the FWD model, replacing the rear eAxle of AWD model. This subframe suppresses vibrations and noise, contributing to a smooth and quiet ride.

DIRECT4, an all-wheel drive system first introduced with the 2023 Lexus RX, is utilized in the RZ 450e and features a rear eAxle coupled with the engine and front motor. The DIRECT4 system utilizes two high-output, high-torque eAxle units that each drive a wheel set, one in the front (150-kW) and the other at the rear (80-kW). Three-point eAxle motor mounts, each using a lightweight aluminum bracket, are placed symmetrically on each side to counterbalance the eAxle's torque.

The DIRECT4 system works to optimize drive force, traction, and posture control (e.g., pitch and dive) in accordance with driving conditions and the load carried by each wheel. DIRECT4's front-to-rear torque distribution has a maximum range of 100:0 to 0:100, depending on the driving situation.

The RZ 450e's 71.4 kWh battery, developed by Prime Planet Energy & Solutions (PPES), delivers on performance with a total system horsepower rating of 308 and a 0-60 acceleration time of 5.0 seconds. It has an EPA-estimated range rating of 220 miles when equipped with 18" wheels and an EPA-estimated MPGe rating of 115/98/107 (city/highway/combined). When utilizing 20" wheels, the RZ 450e has an EPA-estimated MPGe rating of 102/87/95 with an EPA-estimated range rating of 196 miles.

With its lightweight e-TNGA steel platform, the RZ possesses an optimal placement of mass and high body rigidity. RZ's body employs high-tensile steel panels and an aluminum hood to reduce weight and increase rigidity. Marrying body and platform is a bevy of innovative technologies, including Laser Screw Welding and Laser Peening, short pitch spot welds, and high rigidity expansion joints.

The lightweight platform also offers enhanced stability and ride comfort by mounting the 96-cell lithium-ion battery pack under the vehicle floor, creating a low center of gravity and inertia movement. A urethane sealant helps to keep dust and water out of the stack's reinforced structure, while efficient water-cooling and water-heating systems work to maintain an ideal battery temperature.

Braking and Steering
Lexus Driving Signature is also reflected in the new Active Hydraulic Booster-G (AHB-G) braking system that works with RZ's regenerative motor capability to reduce vehicle speed while helping to improve vehicle posture. With a new Vehicle Stability Control actuator and on-demand pressurizing system using a high-performance pump motor, this braking system provides a natural and responsive brake pedal feel. The front-to-rear brake force distribution is controlled by independent pressure regulation, contributing to a comfortable drive and stable vehicle composure while braking. Furthermore, ergonomic brake pedal pads are used for easy pedal changes and pedal depression.

In addition, the Vehicle Braking Posture Control program adjusts front-to-rear brake force distribution according to a driver's braking input as well as the suspension's vertical inputs. This aims to improve handling and body posture while braking and turning.

A standard rack assist-type Electric Power Steering (EPS) system reduces the amount of steering input needed by utilizing a new motor and reduction gear setup that is installed parallel to the steering box. Moreover, a Motor Control Unit (MCU) with an integrated motor and motor current control ECU, reduces the EPS' size footprint and minimizes operational noise.

From the side, the front fenders seemingly wrap around the wheels and tires, then flow rearward to express a forward-moving momentum. The strong three-dimensional shape over the rear fenders emphasizes the tires' width. In addition, the flowing contrast of the doors' sculpted shapes aims to achieve a captivating and scintillating surface.

Having no engine to cool results in a low hood design and minimal front grille opening. The grille uses a grille shutter to improve aerodynamic efficiency. When cooling air is not required, the grille shutter is closed to reduce air resistance. In the rear, the RZ features a clean and simple horizontal design matched to hips highlighting the wide stance; it is a look that accentuates the RZ's torque-filled performance identity.

An available illuminated front "L" emblem indicates charging status and discreetly incorporates a millimeter wave radar sensor. A spelled-out LEXUS logo (as seen on the NX, LX, and RX) resides on the horizontal rear combination lamps. The lowered center portion of the red lens accentuates the logo type and emphasizes a sharp look.

The RZ is offered in three grades, including an entry-level grade (RZ 300e, RZ 450e AWD), Premium (RZ 300e Premium, RZ 450e Premium) and Luxury (RZ 300e Luxury, RZ 450e AWD Luxury). The RZ 300e, RZ 450e AWD and Premium grade ride atop 18-inch wheels in a Dark Gray Metallic finish while the Luxury grade is outfitted with 20-inch wheels in a Black and machined finish.

Exterior color options include: Caviar, Copper Crest1, Iridium2, Cloudburst Gray2, Eminent White Pearl2 and Ether2. Copper Crest4, Ether3 and Cloudburst Gray3 are also available as bi-tone paint options with the Premium and Luxury grades.

The RZ's cabin is a minimalist, yet airy and maximally appointed luxury environment. RZ's interior layout benefits from a compact powertrain with a low platform and thoughtful wheel placement. RZ's low hood allows for better front passenger forward visibility and the available panorama glass roof further lends a sense of wide openness and front-to-rear expansiveness. The goal of eliminating a roller shade function and adopting a smart-function low-e coating is to help the panorama glass roof suppress radiant heat. A dimming function, which instantly reduces the amount of light entering the cabin area, is available with the Dynamic Sky™ panorama glass roof option.

RZ introduces the intuitive shift-by-wire technology which includes a dial-type shift knob on the center console to select drive modes by turning it in a clockwise and counterclockwise motion. With no mechanical connections, the compact setup improves driver convenience while keeping in line with the minimalistic cabin space.

The concept of oto-kukan, Japanese for "sound space", lends to the RZ's peaceful interior as it aims to eliminate unwanted exterior sounds from entering the passenger cabin. Features helping the vehicle achieve a serene environment include: a slimmer A-pillar cross-section (to better manage passing airflow); a continuous hood seal rubber that reduces wind entry and turbulence; sound-dampening carpets, glass, and foam; and Active Sound Control (ASC). ASC directs EV system sound frequencies into the cabin to cancel out unwanted penetrating noise, giving the driver clearer vehicle feedback.

Contacts:

Media:

Laura Finley
469-971-3503
[email protected]

Source: prnewswire.com