KCR Summer 2025 Mag V2 - Flipbook - Page 94
KCR Cars: Lexus RZ: The All-Electric SUV
That Rede昀椀nes Luxury and Performance
Lexus has never been shy about blending cutting-edge technology
with re昀椀ned luxury, and the new Lexus RZ takes that philosophy to an
electrifying new level. Due to arrive in the UK from early 2026, the latest
evolution of Lexus’s all-electric SUV delivers more power, greater e昀케ciency, and a driving experience that feels as much about craftsmanship
as it is about innovation.
crisp 14-inch touchscreen, now incorporates advanced BEV route planning. Not only does it display charging points along your journey, but
it can also dynamically re-route you to the most suitable options based
on real-time availability, wait times, and battery state. This intelligent
mapping removes the guesswork from electric motoring, particularly on
longer trips.
At the heart of the RZ’s transformation is a comprehensive overhaul of
its battery electric powertrain. Across the line-up — from the RZ 350e
front-wheel drive to the high-performance RZ 550e F Sport — Lexus has
introduced a high-capacity 77kWh lithium-ion battery, revised eAxles,
and a more e昀케cient inverter. The result? Stronger performance, longer
driving ranges, and faster charging. In fact, thanks to a 22kW onboard
charger and an advanced pre-conditioning system, a 10 to 80 per cent
charge can be achieved in just 30 minutes in cold climates — almost
halving the time required without it.
Safety remains a cornerstone of the Lexus experience. All RZ grades are
equipped with the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+, which includes
features such as Lane Change Assist, Driver Monitor, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Tra昀케c Alert, and Adaptive High-beam System. These
are backed by Lexus’s renowned build quality and attention to detail,
o昀昀ering peace of mind as standard.
For drivers seeking a true performance 昀氀agship, the RZ 550e F Sport
is the one to watch. With a 402bhp output, all-wheel drive, and a
0–62mph sprint of just 4.4 seconds, it delivers sports car pace in a
luxury SUV body. Adding to its uniqueness is Lexus’s new Interactive
Manual Drive — a world 昀椀rst in a fully electric vehicle — allowing enthusiasts to enjoy virtual manual gear shifting via paddle controls, complete
with motor sound simulation, G-force feedback, and a tachometer
display. It’s an unexpected but welcome touch for those who still relish
the engagement of traditional performance driving.
Another debut technology comes in the form of Lexus’s steer-by-wire
system, available on the RZ 550e F Sport and F Sport Takumi. By
replacing the conventional mechanical link between the steering wheel
and front wheels with electric signals, Lexus has created an agile, intuitive, and con昀椀dence-inspiring setup. The radical new steering wheel
design, more compact and shaped for optimal grip, also improves forward visibility and cabin space. At low speeds it makes tight manoeuvres
e昀昀ortless, while at higher speeds it delivers exceptional stability.
Lexus has always been known for the ‘Lexus Driving Signature’ — a
blend of comfort, control, and composure — and the new RZ pushes this
philosophy further. Engineers have increased body rigidity, 昀椀ne-tuned
the suspension, and evolved the DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system to
seamlessly adjust torque distribution between the front and rear wheels
for optimum stability and response. Whether you’re navigating city
streets, sweeping country roads, or motorways, the RZ feels planted,
precise, and e昀昀ortlessly composed.
For those seeking variety, the RZ range o昀昀ers 昀椀ve distinct grades —
Premium, Premium Plus, Takumi, F Sport, and F Sport Takumi — each
with its own blend of styling cues, luxury features, and performance
characteristics. Whether you prioritise maximum range, ultimate
comfort, or an engaging driving feel, there’s a model tailored to your
lifestyle.
The arrival of the new Lexus RZ marks more than just a model update.
It’s a statement about the future of luxury electric mobility: a future
where e昀케ciency doesn’t come at the expense of driving pleasure, where
innovation serves elegance, and where every journey is as rewarding as
the destination.
In a segment where many electric SUVs lean heavily on technology
at the expense of character, the Lexus RZ stands apart. It’s a car that
combines the serenity of a luxury lounge, the precision of advanced
engineering, and the thrill of a truly connected drive. For discerning
drivers ready to embrace electri昀椀cation without compromise, the new
RZ might just be the perfect balance of performance and poise.
Visit: www.lexus.co.uk
Model on text: Lexux RZ300e
By Lisa Curtiss
Inside, Lexus has taken re昀椀nement to new heights. Already whisper-quiet thanks to its electric powertrain, the RZ’s cabin bene昀椀ts from
additional insulation, higher-performance soundproo昀椀ng materials, and
vibration-damping measures. The result is a cocoon-like environment
where conversation 昀氀ows easily, even at motorway speeds. Upholstery choices include a sustainable Ultrasuede made from 30 per cent
plant-based materials, available with exquisite laser-cut detailing for a
bespoke, tactile 昀椀nish. Ambient lighting now includes a new ‘Dynamic
Shadow’ e昀昀ect, casting gentle moving patterns across the door panels
for a serene, contemporary ambience.
Space and practicality haven’t been forgotten either. Clever eAxle
packaging and the 昀氀at battery 昀氀oor mean generous passenger room and
a versatile 522-litre boot, expanding to 1,451 litres with the rear seats
folded. Takumi and F Sport Takumi grades o昀昀er a panoramic roof made
from a new blue glass with dimming capability, providing shade without
sacri昀椀cing the open, airy feel of the cabin.
From a design perspective, the RZ remains every inch a Lexus — sharp
lines, purposeful stance, and a distinctive presence. The F Sport variants
bring extra drama with exclusive aero wheels, sporty spoilers, and bold
details like blue-昀椀nished brake callipers. A new Neutrino Grey paint
option, available in bi-tone or monotone, adds sophistication to the
palette.
Technology, as you’d expect from Lexus, is deeply integrated but never
intrusive. The latest Lexus Link Pro multimedia system, displayed on a
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