The luxury brand of the Toyota group makes the commitment: from 2030, its range will be fully electrified.
So no time to waste.
Illustration with the launch of the Lexus RZ 450e, from the beginning of next year.
Indeed, if there has already been a zero emission proposal with the UX 300e, it was only the electrification of a thermal model.
Nothing to do, therefore, with the newcomer sharing with the ToyotabZ4X and the Subaru Solterra a new platform specifically dedicated to this technology.
Unlike its two cousins, which display a measured power of 204 hp in two-wheel drive and 218 hp with all-wheel drive, the Lexus SUV, however, asserts its superior standing by only being offered with four-wheel drive and two engines. , one at the front of 204 hp, the other at the rear of 109 hp.
Lexus
If the machine claims an acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h in just 5.6 seconds, against 7.7 s for its cousins, its top speed remains identical and limited to 160 km / h.
With the same 71.4 kWh battery, the WLTP range drops to around 400 km, while Toyota and Subaru claim 450 to 510 km depending on the version.
This announces little more than 300 km at steady speed on the highway.
Skinny for a road-oriented vehicle, even if Lexus innovates by offering a Range mode allowing you to grab a few kilometers of autonomy when the battery is almost discharged.
Lexus
With 4.80 m, the RZ is longer than the bZ4X and the Solterra by a dozen centimeters.
He takes the opportunity to offer a slightly larger trunk, around 550 liters.
Resting on a large wheelbase, its interior space is generous, with rear seats offering plenty of legroom and a flat floor.
Inspired by manga, the style remains quite tormented, with sharp angles and worked shapes.
The front face without grille and the plunging bonnet display the specificity of the model.
With a very sloping tailgate, barred by a wide light strip and surmounted by an original two-part spoiler, the rear reinforces the dynamism of the silhouette.
On the technological level, the attraction comes from an electronic direction dubbed “One Motion Grip”.
Doing without any mechanical link between the steering wheel and the wheels, it is a world first.
The device is accompanied by a surprising "Steer-by-Wire" steering wheel in the shape of a butterfly which would not denote in a Formula 1. With the variable gear ratio, it allows you to go from stop to stop in less than one turn .
It's quite amazing in the maneuvers, even if it takes a little getting used to not systematically oversteer.
Another advantage of the system is that it offers a much clearer view of the road and instruments.
Choose your direction
SEBASTIAN MAUROY
The model is not yet homologated, it is on circuit that we could try it.
If the behavior is of course not that of a sports car, the RZ 450e however makes you forget its 2.3 tonnes thanks to consistent acceleration, pleasant handling and convincing braking.
In addition to the low center of gravity provided by the batteries integrated into the floor, the Direct4 all-wheel drive, which allows an optimal and almost instantaneous distribution of the torque between the four wheels, adds a very reassuring natural balance.
If the active control of the sound, via the loudspeakers, possibly makes it possible to recreate an evocative sound atmosphere, silence remains one of the outstanding qualities of the electric.
Concerned about the well-being of its passengers, the RZ 450e embellishes it with a few original treats, such as radiant floor heating or a photosensitive panoramic roof that can be lightened or darkened with the touch of a button.
A large touchscreen tablet integrated into the dashboard allows you to manage the main vehicle functions, as well as the new Lexus Link multimedia system with voice assistant and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
In the end, the level of comfort has nothing to envy to that of a large sedan.
SEBASTIAN MAUROY
The RZ 450e will be available in dealerships from January 2023 in standard version.
On the other hand, it will be necessary to wait a few additional months to have the version equipped with the by-wire direction.
The price will range from 75,000 to 85,000 euros depending on the version.