Fully electric Lexus RZ priced for New Zealand

Pricing and specification has been announced for the new Lexus RZ 450e which is set to lead the fully electric charge for the Japanese carmaker when it arrives in New Zealand later this year.

The new halo model is one of the first in the line of EVs which will carry Lexus to its goal of becoming a 100 per cent electric brand by 2035. Before then, the brand will offer a full range of electric cars across its lineup by 2030.

Upon the RX 450e’s arrival, Kiwis can expect to see a sharp new design which boasts an “aerodynamic silhouette” as well as find the brand’s Direct4 all-wheel drive system underpinning the model.

Powering the fully electric SUV is a 150kW motor up front and an 80kW unit at the rear to generate a combined 230kW output, with each motor drawing power from a lithium-ion 71.3kWh battery.

Driving range comes to 470km while an 11kW internal charger is included, accommodating for three-phase charging.

Both variants are fitted with Lexus’ eAxle technology which integrates the transaxle, motor generator, and inverter. Alongside the Direct4 all-wheel drive system, this helps the model boast a towing capacity of 750kg braked/unbraked.

New Zealand customers will have a choice of two variants when the RZ 450e goes on sale, including Core and Dynamic.

Dynamic adds 20-inch black and machined faced alloy wheels compared to the Core’s 18-inch units, a power dimming panoramic glass roof, adaptive high-beam headlights, Ultrasuede seat fabric (synthetic leather for the Core) and a head-up display.

Six exterior colours are available to choose from including Ether Metallic, Sonic Copper, Graphite Black, Sonic Shade, Sonic Quartz, and Sonic Iridium. Three two tone choices are available for the Dynamic variant.

“The new electrified Lexus RZ is our future of electrification and will continue to accelerate our carbon reduction journey. From the brave design through to the exhilarating performance it will be a delight to drive. And of course, being a Lexus, the build quality and luxury interior will be second to none,” says Vice President of Lexus New Zealand, Andrew Davis.

Lexus New Zealand expects the RZ 450e to arrive in May 2023 and has priced the Core variant at $141,600 while the Dynamic is $151,600. The Dynamic’s two tone option adds $2000 to its price tag.