Lexus RZ: Brand's first BEV coming to Malaysia?

Hey EV enthusiasts! Get ready to try your hands on Lexus's first electric vehicle, the RZ. The luxury automaker is now registering buyers' interest for this advanced electric vehicle in Malaysia. Although, the launch is yet to be announced, with possibilities to happen later next year. The ROI page on Lexus Malaysia's official website gives us all the reasons to get excited. So, here we bring all the details about the Malaysian-bound Lexus RZ you need to know.

Avant-garde tech

Sharing its base with the Toyota bZ4x and Subaru Solterra EV, the Lexus RZ goes its own way with the new and innovative tech on board. These include - 

Direct4 all-wheel-drive system: The car features an all-new Direct4 all-wheel-drive system. It uses the high-output electronic axle motor that manages the power transferred to all four wheels with high precision. 

Steer-by-wire: Lexus's first Steer-by-wire system lets you drive with effortless agility and make sharp turns convenient. How? This innovative system eliminates the need to connect the driver and front wheels mechanically and sends the steering input to an electronic system that manages the steering at the wheels. 

Yoke steering wheel: This steering wheel is also crafted thoughtfully to eliminate the need for hand-over-hand operation at U-turns and intersections while offering an enjoyable and engaging driving feel.

Sound of electrification: Further increasing the levels of exhilaration is the exciting sound of electrification. This tech matches the sound frequencies to the vehicle's speed during dynamic actions.

Unique design 

Lexus' first BEV sports a unique identity with proportions derived from the dynamic driving experience. On the front lies a sculpted body panel and vertical air vents merging with headlights. In addition, there is a unique sloping coupe-like roofline with a spoiler on the rear windshield. The rear fascia also looks elegant thanks to the sleek tail lights linked through an LED light bar.

If we talk about the Lexus RZ exterior colours choice, the automaker will offer the EV in 6 unique shades, including metallic textures like Aether Metallic and Sonic Cooper.

The highlights of the minimalistic, spacious interior are:

• A human-centered cockpit based on a concept called the Tazuna concept (a Japanese term which means using reins to control a horse)
• 14.0-inch infotainment unit
• Digital driver's display and head-up display
• Rotary drive selector
• Suede door trims and premium seat upholstery made with 30% bio-based sustainable materials
• Ambient illumination with 14 colour choices
• Touch interface controls 
• Dimmable panoramic roof

Dual-motor setup

The Lexus BEV runs on a dual-motor setup; 150 kW at the front and 80 kW at the rear. Combinedly, the setup generates a maximum power output of 308 horsepower and a peak torque of 435 Nm, higher than the numbers the BZ4X/Solterra brings to the table. The motors are paired with a 71.4-kWh battery pack offering an estimated range of up to 400 km on a single charge. 

Performance, the Lexus RZ can run from nought to 100 kmph in 5.6 seconds before hitting a top speed of 159 kmph.

Innovative safety features

This luxury EV hosts a number of innovative safety features, including -

Lexus Safety System+ 3.0: This pack comprises advanced driving aids like Proactive Driving Assist, Lane Departure Alert, Pre-Collision System, and Emergency Driving Stop System.

Advanced Drive: Lexus's first Advanced Drive system supports drivers' judgment and perceptions and the car's operation during hectic jams. That's how it tries to reduce driving fatigue.

Advanced Park: As the name suggests, this feature helps in parking. It supports parallel parking, forward-facing parking, and backup parking.

Price not yet announced

Looking for the Lexus RZ price? Unfortunately, the automaker has not yet spilt the beans on this. However, the EV is expected to hit the US roads later this year at an estimated price of USD 50,000 (approximately equal to RM 219,045).

So, that's all we know so far about the Malaysian-bound Lexus RZ. For all the further updates on the EV's price and launch, stay tuned with us.

Also read: Buy or Hold: Should you wait for the new Lexus NX or buy the BMW X3?