The all-electric Lexus RZ luxury SUV is being revised for the 2026 model year. It introduces a series of comprehensive upgrades that will further elevate the driving experience, through innovative technologies, enhanced control, and deeper driver engagement. Here we outline the enhancements that customers should expect when the new model is introduced to the UK in the first quarter of 2026.
2026 Lexus RZ: new powertrain
The RZ’s all-electric powertrain has been completely revised, beginning with a new 77kWh lithium-ion battery. The number of cells within this high-output pack has been increased, which, in turn, enables higher outputs from efficient new eAxle electric motors. Higher performance is further supported by the adoption of water cooling for the battery. For the customer, these revisions will improve full-throttle acceleration and top speed performance, but also contribute to a more exhilarating and responsive drive in the mid-range.
Combining the high-output battery and eAxle with different systems has produced an RZ range with an extended market reach. This will allow the model to cater to a wider spectrum of customer needs and preferences. These are the new power options:
| Lexus RZ 350e | 221bhp |
| Lexus RZ 500e | 376bhp |
| Lexus RZ 550e | 402bhp |
These enhancements yield a significant improvement in the driving range, with provisional data showing that it has increased by up to 60 miles. In addition, the towing capacity of the all-wheel drive RZ has doubled, meaning it can now pull braked loads of up to 1,500kg.
Reduced charging times
Thanks to the increase in battery capacity and revisions to the pack structure, the 2026 Lexus RZ offers enhanced charging performance through the adoption of a new 22kW AC onboard charger. A new pre-conditioning function also improves charging performance in low temperatures by warming the battery before charging starts. By eliminating cold-weather delays, charging time should be reduced by around 30 minutes.
2026 Lexus RZ: steer-by-wire
The new RZ is the first model to adopt our new steer-by-wire system. Instead of being completely round, the steering wheel is designed without the upper and lower sections so is almost rectangular in shape, with curved grips on the left and right sides. The design helps the driver focus on the road ahead and frees more space around the knees and legs for easier entry and exit to the car.
The system operates in a range of approximately 200 degrees from lock to lock, and dynamically adjusts the steering gear ratio according to vehicle speed. This provides easier manoeuvrability at low speeds, agility for smooth driving on winding roads, and stability in high-speed motorway driving. Although there is no physical link between the steering wheel and axles, the driver receives appropriate feedback communicated by electric signals, minimising unpleasant vibrations.
Direct4 drive control improved
The 2026 Lexus RZ is equipped with an evolved version of the Direct4 all-wheel drive system that made its production debut in the RZ 450e in 2023. The system is designed to adjust the front/rear balance according to prevailing conditions and driver input, delivering a rewarding feel when cornering and precise line tracing. The breadth of this flexibility can be anywhere between 100:0 and 20:80 and is delivered in a matter of milliseconds — more precisely than any mechanical system.
The adoption of our Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management technology contributes to a flatter, more comfortable ride comfort, together with enhanced driving stability and emergency hazard avoidance handling. Strategic physical measures reinforce these qualities, such as increased structural rigidity and fine adjustments to the suspension’s spring and damper settings.
2026 Lexus RZ: interior
Exceptional cabin quietness is a key quality of Lexus BEVs, so the new RZ has been enhanced with additional soundproofing and sound absorption measures. These include a new silencer beneath the rear seats and enhanced soundproofing in multiple locations, including the tonneau cover, back door trim and load compartment. Action has also been taken to further suppress vibrations.
In terms of interior design, Lexus is introducing the first cabin trim with laser-processed graphics. In another first, the multi-colour ambient lighting has a new, dynamic shadow effect which creates changing patterns that evoke the passage of time. A new dimming function for the panoramic roof helps keep the cabin comfortable in bright sunshine.
New Lexus RZ 550e F Sport
The 2026 Lexus RZ will be available as F Sport model for the first time. Delivering a maximum 402bhp, this engaging derivative sets the bar as the most powerful version and as such adopts sportier styling and sports-tuned suspension.
To create a closer connection between man and machine, the F Sport models adopts our new Interactive Manual Drive system. This allows the driver to control the power output with eight virtual gears, as if using a manual gear selector. Operation is accompanied by real-time feedback — from replicated engine sounds to a rev counter in the instrument display so that drivers have a sense of timing their gear shifts and experience changes in the vehicle’s state.
The F Sport’s exterior styling makes a bold visual statement and contributes to its aerodynamic performance. The functional features include front lower bumper mouldings, brake ducts, front and rear spoilers, and rear bumper. The 20-inch wheels have an alloy base and aerodynamic resin covers to smooth airflow, improve efficiency and save weight. F Sport models will also be exclusively available in Neutrino Grey (see lead image and image above), a solid paint finish with metallic highlights that contrast strongly with the car’s black styling elements.
Inside, the dedicated F Sport interior features black and dark grey upholstery with blue stitched accents, plus a trim panel with a microgeometric pattern. The front seats are made using an integrated foaming method to provide superior body-holding performance. Other details include F Sport scuff plates and steering wheel and an aluminium pedal set.
Details of the 2026 Lexus RZ were correct at the time of publishing, with all performance data remaining tentative prior to homologation. The full UK model range and specifications will be announced soon, ahead of its launch in early 2026.
