After teasing the vehicle over recent months, Lexus has finally unveiled its first EV designed for global production: the RZ 450e electric SUV. As you’d expect, the new RZ 450e is built on the same e-TNGA architecture shared by both Toyota and Subaru‘s own electric SUVs, and runs on a DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive powertrain with a 71.4kWh battery that provides a range of 225 miles per single charge.
While the automaker hasn’t specified exact numbers, it says the front motor can deliver 201 horsepower to the front axle while the rear motor can push out 107 horsepower to the rear axle. The two motors work together through an eAxle and DIRECT4 distribution control system that sends power to where you need it most, giving you all the traction you’ll need. Other features include a large interior with Ultrasuede upholstery, an electrochromic roof, a 14-inch touchscreen by the console, and the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 package.
On the exterior, you’ll notice design cues taken from the automaker’s current RX range of SUVs, with the brand’s iconic spindle grille staying at the forefront of the vehicle. Now called the BEV Spindle Body, the design element plays a much bigger role aesthetically than it did performance-wise for engine cooling on its ICE-equipped counterparts, setting a pronounced stylistic precedent for more Lexus EVs in the future. Elsewhere on the car, you’ll also find an underbody pan and a ducktail spoiler to increase its aerodynamic properties.
Unfortunately, Lexus has provided any pricing information yet for the RZ 450e, but it says the electric SUV will be available before the end of the year.
Elsewhere in the automotive world, Mercedes-Benz has also unveiled its own electric SUV: the EQS SUV.
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