The new RZ , a minor change model officially announced by Lexus on March 12, 2025 , is a significantly improved version of the first-generation RZ , which debuted in 2023 as the company’s first electric-only model . With its launch in Japan scheduled for December 2025, the car has undergone some fascinating evolutions, including a completely revamped powertrain, a significant extension of the driving range, and the addition of a new grade, the RZ550e F SPORT.
Major changes to the new RZ: Overview of the 2025 model
LEXUS RZ550e “F SPORT”
New powertrain lineup
New grade structure
- RZ350e (FWD): 227ps, range 575km
- RZ500e (AWD): 381ps, range 500km
- RZ550e F SPORT (AWD): 408ps, range 450km
The new model is a complete redesign of the previous RZ300e and RZ450e, and features a more powerful and efficient powertrain. The addition of the F SPORT model in particular caters to users seeking a sportier ride.
Innovative “steer-by-wire system” comes standard
The most notable feature of the new RZ is the inclusion of a steer-by-wire system, which eliminates any mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the tires.
Main features:
- Steering wheel rotation angle limited to approximately 200 degrees left and right (no need to change grip)
- Cuts out unnecessary vibrations from tires
- Only necessary road information is transmitted
- Greater freedom of driving position
Dramatically improved cruising range
Improvement rate:
- FWD model (RZ350e) : Approximately 20% improvement to 575km
- AWD model : Approximately 14% improvement
This improvement is due to an increase in battery capacity to 76.96 kWh and the increased efficiency of a newly developed powertrain.
Improved charging performance
Reduced charging time:
- Charging time reduced by up to 30 minutes or more
- “Battery preconditioning function” eliminates charging delays in low-temperature environments
- Improved charging efficiency through optimized battery pack structure
The appeal of the new grade “RZ550e F SPORT”
Lexus RZ
Exclusive equipment and design
Exterior:
- Dedicated front lower bumper molding
- Dedicated brake duct
- Dedicated rear spoiler and lower bumper
- 20-inch aero wheels
- New color “Neutrino Gray”
interior:
- F SPORT exclusive “Black x Dark Gray” interior
- Blue stitching accents
- Micro Geometric Pattern Film
- Foam-in-one front seats
Equipped with “Interactive Manual Drive”
This new feature, a first for Lexus, gives the EV the feel and sound of a manual car. The shift feel when accelerating and decelerating and the uplifting sound provide the joy of sporty driving.
Evolution of interior and equipment
Advanced Infotainment
- 14-inch multimedia system
- Connected navigation : Real-time traffic information and parking availability information
- BEV-specific functions : Display of charging facilities, display of driving range area
- OTA update support
- Digital key : Control your vehicle with your smartphone
Comfort equipment
Panoramic roof with dimming function
- Improved clarity when dimming function is on
- Improved light blocking when dimming function is off
- Compatible with electronic inner mirror
A first for Lexus
- Dynamic shadow illumination (multi-color)
- Laser-cut graphic door trim
Safety and driving performance
Lexus Safety System + 3.0
Equipped with the latest active safety system, it offers the following features:
- Collision avoidance assistance at intersections
- Detects oncoming vehicles when turning right
- Pedestrian and cyclist protection
- Active steering assist function
DIRECT4 four-wheel drive system
The electric AWD system “DIRECT4” precisely controls the front/rear drive force distribution between 0:100 and 100:0.
- When starting or accelerating straight ahead : Stability is ensured with a front/rear ratio of 40:60 to 60:40.
- When cornering : Sporty cornering with optimal distribution according to the situation
Price and release date
Release Schedule
- World premiere : March 12, 2025 (completed)
- Scheduled release date in Japan : December 2025
The price has not yet been announced, but considering the significant improvements in functionality over the previous model, it is expected to increase from the current price (starting at 8.2 million yen).
Current model or new model: Key points for purchasing decisions
Users who should wait for the new model
✅ Recommended for:
- I want to experience the latest technology (steer-by-wire)
- More emphasis on range (575km vs 599km FWD)
- The sporty F SPORT model is appealing
- Prioritize shortening charging time
- Looking for the latest interior and equipment
The current model is sufficient for some users
✅ If you are like this, the current model is worth considering.
- Emphasis on price (price increase expected for new models)
- We urgently need EVs
- The current RZ300e (FWD 599km) range is sufficient.
- Emphasis on basic performance, no need for sports performance
Comparison with competitors
Toyota bZ4X vs Lexus RZ
| item | bZ4X | New RZ350e | New RZ500e |
|---|---|---|---|
| price | Approximately 4.6 million yen and up | Unreleased | Unreleased |
| Range | 559km | 575km | 500km |
| output | 204ps | 227ps | 381ps |
| Interior texture | Standard | Premium | Premium |
Competition with other manufacturers
- BMW iX3 : 520km range, luxury
- Audi e-tron : 400km range, traditional brand power
- Tesla Model Y : 507km range, advanced technology
Compared to these, the new Lexus RZ offers well-balanced performance and the quality and service that only Lexus can offer.
Summary: Overall evaluation of the 2025 new RZ
Top 3 reasons to wait
- 20% increase in range significantly improves practicality
- Experience the revolutionary technology of the steer-by-wire system
- Charging time reduced by more than 30 minutes for improved convenience
Points to note
- High probability of price increase
- Delivery times may be extended for some time after release
- New technology , risk of initial defects
Conclusion: The new RZ, due for release in December 2025, will be a significant improvement over the current model, and if you can tolerate the price increase, it’s well worth waiting. If you prioritize range, charging performance, and advanced technology, we recommend waiting for the new model.
However, if you need an EV quickly and price is a priority, the current model remains an attractive option.
