There are also Sport, Eco, and Range modes, and the latter two should wring more miles out of a charge. Note, however, that the RZ's EPA numbers are with the car in Normal drive mode. Might Lexus introduce a larger-capacity battery? Unfortunately, we're told the e-TNGA platform can't accommodate a larger pack unless the wheelbase is stretched. As a result, the RZ's EPA-estimated range is just 196 miles for the Luxury trim with 20-inch wheels and 220 miles for the entry-level Premium version on 18s. The RZ's battery pack is lifted directly from the bZ, and it's modestly sized with an estimated usable capacity of 63.4 kWh. ![]() But it's well shy of more performance-oriented dual-motor EVs like the Model Y, the Jaguar I-Pace, the Ford Mustang Mach-E, the higher-trim GV60, and the Lyriq. That's a healthy increase over the Toyota's weak-sauce 214 horses, and it compares favorably to dual-motor versions of the EQB, Q4, and the (base) GV60. (A single-motor version with front-wheel drive is likely to join later.) Compared to its dual-motor Toyota sibling, the Lexus gets a more muscular front motor, which ups total output to 308 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. Initially, the RZ450e will be offered in dual-motor, all-wheel-drive form only. Smartphone-as-key functionality is another subscription-based feature, this one requiring Remote Connect, which also provides the ability to remotely start/stop/monitor charging, lock/unlock the doors, start the car, and set the climate control. "Hey Lexus" summons voice recognition to work the infotainment, navigation, and climate controls-provided the car has an active Drive Connect subscription. There is, thankfully, a volume knob, along with a smattering of buttons on the center dash and console. You also select drive modes on the screen. The 14.0-inch touchscreen that's optional in the RX is standard here, and it incorporates most climate controls, including a touch slider for fan speed (there are knobs for temperature and buttons for the front and rear defrosters). The latter gets a repositioned instrument cluster that's slightly higher and farther away all versions have digital instrumentation. The driver faces a padded three-spoke steering wheel or, optionally, a steering yoke (more on that in a bit). A dual-pane panoramic sunroof is standard across the board, while the Luxury's optional Dynamic Sky version gets electronically dimmed glass that goes from transparent to opaque. As a result, there's no glovebox, but there's a cubby under the center console along with the usual covered bin and forward tray. Like the bZ4X, the Lexus offers radiant heating elements in the lower dash to warm front-seat occupants' legs (the feature is optional on the Premium, standard on the Luxury). In keeping with the green theme, there's no leather upholstery option: The Premium version features the brand's NuLuxe synthetic leather, while the Luxury model gets a rich-looking Ultrasuede. The RZ cabin offers minimal adornment, upscale materials, and typically impressive Lexus build quality. Narrow A-pillars and decently large windows make for good visibility. The rear seat boasts plenty of kneeroom and a flat floor. ![]() Inside, we find a comfortable, welcoming space for five.
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