Lexus has taken a proactive approach to its second full-EV, the RZ coupe-SUV. While the exterior remains largely unchanged from the 2023 launch, the “facelift” is much more than cosmetic. Lexus has listened to early criticisms regarding range and charging speeds, delivering a more capable—though occasionally eccentric—premium electric vehicle.
The Core Improvements: Battery and Speed
The primary goal of this update was to address the RZ’s biggest weaknesses: range anxiety and slow replenishment.
- Increased Capacity: The battery has been bumped from 71.4kWh to 77kWh.
- Faster AC Charging: The peak AC charging speed has doubled from 11kW to 22kW, meaning a full charge can now take roughly three and a half hours under ideal conditions.
- Enhanced Power: The entire lineup has seen a boost in output. The entry-level 350e now delivers 221bhp, while the flagship 550e reaches a muscular 402bhp.
Why this matters: In the rapidly evolving EV market, “range” is the most critical metric for consumer confidence. By increasing capacity and charging efficiency, Lexus is attempting to bridge the gap between its premium positioning and the high-performance benchmarks set by rivals like Tesla.
Driving Dynamics: Comfort Over Chaos
Lexus has refined the RZ’s driving experience by upgrading the suspension and increasing structural rigidity. The result is a vehicle that excels at high-speed cruising and offers a refined, peaceful motorway experience.
Performance Breakdown
| Model | Power | 0-62mph | Best For… |
|---|---|---|---|
| RZ 350e | 221bhp | 7.5s | Daily commuting and efficiency |
| RZ 500e | 376bhp | 4.6s | The “sweet spot” of performance and value |
| RZ 550e | 402bhp | 4.4s | Enthusiasts seeking maximum power |
While the 550e is the fastest, it introduces a controversial feature: Interactive Manual Drive. This system uses motor torque interruption and synthetic sounds to simulate gear changes. However, critics note the sounds are somewhat unconvincing—described by some as a mix between a jet engine and a cement mixer—and the “gears” shift too abruptly to feel natural.
The Steering Dilemma
One of the most polarizing updates is the steer-by-wire system found on higher trims. Instead of a traditional mechanical link, the steering is controlled electronically via a “yoke” shape.
– The Pro: It feels more organic at high speeds.
– The Con: It can feel sudden, imprecise, and awkward during low-speed maneuvers like parking.
For most drivers, a traditional round steering wheel remains the more reliable and intuitive choice.
Interior Luxury and Practicality
Inside, the RZ lives up to its premium billing. The cabin is spacious, aided by a low-set floor that maximizes legroom despite the coupe-SUV silhouette.
- Premium Materials: Expect soft leathers, grained plastics, and eco-friendly Ultrasuede on higher trims.
- Innovative Comfort: All models include infrared leg heaters, a clever, low-energy way to keep passengers warm without blasting the cabin heater.
- User Interface: The cockpit is driver-focused with an angled touchscreen, though some users may find the reliance on touch controls for climate settings slightly distracting.
The Economic Reality: Running Costs and Value
While the RZ offers a luxury experience, it comes with significant financial considerations.
- Depreciation: The RZ struggles to hold its value compared to competitors. While a Tesla Model Y might retain up to 64% of its value after three years, the Lexus typically retains only 37% to 42%.
- Taxation: Because many RZ models exceed the £50,000 threshold, owners may face an additional £440 annual luxury car tax.
- Real-World Range: While official figures are strong (up to 347 miles for the 350e), real-world testing suggests that high-performance models like the 550e may see significantly lower mileage in actual driving conditions.
Final Verdict
The updated Lexus RZ is a much more competitive EV than its predecessor, offering improved range, faster charging, and a more refined ride. However, its high entry price, rapid depreciation, and experimental steering technology mean it remains a niche choice for those who value Lexus refinement over pure value-for-money.
Summary: The RZ is a highly polished, comfortable premium SUV that has fixed its technical flaws, even if it occasionally stumbles with over-ambitious digital gimmicks.
