Lexus RZ 450e locked in for Australia: All-electric SUV set for 2023 launch

The first dedicated EV from Lexus will arrive in Australia by the middle of next year, with the RZ 450e promising a luxury electric SUV experience Down Under.

The RZ 450e might be the first EV-only model, but it’s not Lexus’ first electric vehicle, with the Lexus UX 300e taking those honours.

But the RZ 450e promises to be a different beast entirely. Promising 230kW from its twin motor, AWD setup, and a zero to 100km/h sprint time of around 5.2 seconds, it promises to be a sprightly and capable SUV.

The range, though, is limited to an estimated 450km, which puts the RZ 450e behind vehicles like the Tesla Model Y, which offers up to 514km of driving range.

“I am delighted to confirm the RZ as the next all-new offering in the Lexus Electrified portfolio in Australia,” say Lexus Australia Chief Executive John Pappas. “This is a luxury SUV for customers wanting the latest in Lexus zero-emission technology and innovative design.”

“The RZ expands our portfolio of electrified vehicles, moving Lexus ever closer to our ultimate goal of a sustainable society.

“This exciting zero-emissions luxury Lexus also evolves the Lexus Driving Signature of intuitive, smooth and faithful driving performance, now with exceptional refinement and quietness.”

The RZ is the first dedicated EV that Lexus has built from a “clean-sheet design”, rather than adapting an existing model, with the SUV riding on the brand’s e-TNGA platform with its batteries and motor positioned at the base of the vehicle for dynamics and weight balance.

It will also feature the brand’s eAxle, which packages the motor, transaxle, and inverter in one unit for better interior packaging, or space in the cabin.

Pricing and full specifications will be confirmed closer to the vehicle’s launch, but given Toyota has already warned the bZ4X won’t be cheap, the RZ 450e will clearly be more expensive. Something closer to six figures seems likely.