Intake 2023 Lexus RZ 450e

One electric SUV, two experiences.

- Alex Leanse

The RZ isn’t Lexus’ first all-electric vehicle; that distinction goes to the overseas-only UX 300e. But it is the company’s first dedicated EV, built on the e-TNGA platform that also underpins the Toyota bZ4X and many others yet to come from the Japanese giant. Sized between the compact Lexus NX and midsize Lexus RX, the RZ is built to take on luxury electric crossovers including the Cadillac Lyriq, Genesis GV60, and Tesla Model Y.

Inside, you find a 14.0-inch touchscreen. Air vents and trim lining the dashboard take a fluid shape as they lead to door panels that look sparsely decorated—until night falls. That’s when so-called Shadow Lighting becomes visible, projecting a lovely ethereal pattern across the upper portion. Every RZ comes with a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, and a wireless charging pad. Upgrades include a head-up display and electrically tinting glass roof.