THE new Lexus RZ has had its world premiere in Brussels, Belgium, with the battery electric luxury SUV benefitting from comprehensive revisions.

Lexus has been a pioneer in electrification in the luxury market since the launch of the RX 400h in 2005, consistently pursuing a balance between driving quality and engagement and environmental efficiency.

With its Lexus Electrified vision, announced in 2019, it is aiming to achieve a carbon-neutral society by offering a range of vehicle technologies, including battery electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid, to meet the diverse needs of its customers and markets.

The RZ was launched in 2023 as Lexus's first model constructed on a dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV) global architecture platform. It offered a new driving experience and design made possible by electrification technology. In 2024, the range was extended with the introduction of a front-wheel drive model, responding to customer demand.

Development of the new RZ focused on four key pillars: driving pleasure; driving range and battery charging; performance; and design.

The technical innovations are led by the first application of Lexus's steer-by-wire system. This provides a new driving experience with smooth, easy and more intuitive operation, particularly when enjoying winding roads.

It is also tuned for responsiveness and driver feedback that is free from unwelcome vibrations. To ensure the desired qualities of the Lexus Driving Signature were achieved, the car underwent extensive development at Lexus's Shimoyama test centre in Japan.

The new model range also brings F Sport performance and style to the RZ for the first time.

The all-wheel drive RZ 550e is the most powerful RZ and offers a new BEV driving experience with Lexus's Interactive Manual Drive, an electronic system that provides virtual manual gear shifting.

Comprehensive changes to the BEV system, including revisions to the lithium-ion battery for high output and capacity and an evolution of Lexus' eAxle, allow for an expected increase in driving range of up to 60 miles.

In addition, battery charging time will be quicker, aided by the adoption of a new battery pre-conditioning system and 22kW AC onboard charger.

The global reveal paves the way for the new RZ's UK market introduction during the first quarter of 2026. Details of the UK model range and specifications will be announced at a later date.

Charging performance has also been enhanced, thanks to the increase in battery capacity, revisions to the battery pack structure and the adoption of a new 22kW AC onboard charger, anticipating the wider provision of public infrastructure that supports faster charging.

Charging in low temperatures has been improved with a new battery pre-conditioning function. This optimises the battery temperature before charging starts, eliminating delays. As a result, charging time should be reduced by around 30 minutes.

The new RZ is the first model to adopt Lexus's new steer-by-wire system. This creates a new, intuitive and comfortable driving experience that seamlessly integrates driver and vehicle. It also transforms the traditional driver's cockpit.

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 focus the driver's attention on the road ahead and, being compact, it frees up 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 full left to right lock. This gives the driver precise control and easy operation.

Although there is no physical link between the steering wheel and the axles, the driver receives appropriate feedback communicated by electric signals, minimising unpleasant vibrations.