2026 Lexus RZ EV First Look: Increased Range and a Powerful New F-Sport Trim
The all-electric Lexus RZ undergoes a mid-cycle update for the 2026 model year, featuring a larger battery, updated electronics, and the addition of a new top-tier trim level.
The 2026 Lexus RZ marks the Japanese luxury automaker’s first venture into fully electric vehicles. Launched in 2023, it initially offered all-wheel drive, with a later addition of a front-drive version offering greater range. For the 2026 model year, the RZ will undergo several updates, including an upgraded battery pack, more efficient systems, and the introduction of a new top-tier F Sport model. While the debut will first occur in Europe, these changes are expected to reach the U.S. by the end of 2025.
Let’s start with the exciting new 2026 Lexus RZ F Sport model. It features Lexus’ Direct4 dual-motor all-wheel drive system, delivering 408 horsepower. Additionally, there’s now an option to simulate gear shifts. This system mimics an eight-speed range of artificial gears, adjusting torque and power based on driver inputs through paddles behind the steering wheel, as if you were manually shifting gears in a conventional car. Speaking of the “steering wheel,” Lexus has equipped the RZ F Sport with its unique electronic steering system, which is more of a handle than a traditional wheel. The F Sport version also comes with lightweight 20-inch wheels and a two-tone paint scheme (black paired with another color), along with a new metallic grey finish available as an option.
In addition to the new F Sport trim, the entire RZ lineup is set to receive several notable upgrades. These include a new 77 kWh battery pack with revised chemistry for improved efficiency and range, as well as a redesigned Lexus e-axle system, which also enhances overall efficiency. To further improve performance, water cooling has been introduced for both the battery and motor temperature management, marking a significant advancement. Lexus claims that these changes will add up to 100 km (approximately 60 miles) of additional range, depending on the configuration. This is a much-needed improvement, especially considering that the current U.S. version of the RZ offers a relatively modest range of 266 miles at best (and as low as 196 miles in some configurations).
The updated 2026 Lexus RZ lineup now offers three available configurations: the RZ 350e front-wheel drive trim, producing 224 horsepower; the RZ 500e, which delivers 380 horsepower; and the new RZ 550e F Sport, which boasts 408 horsepower. Furthermore, the two all-wheel-drive trims of the refreshed RZ are capable of towing double the capacity of the previous model, now reaching just over 3,300 pounds. A new 22 kW onboard charger has been introduced to speed up battery charging, and the updated battery temperature management system should enhance charging times, particularly in extreme or fluctuating climates like cold weather. Additional improvements include efforts to reduce vibrations inside the cabin, minimizing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), as well as adding more sound insulation under the rear seats and in the tonneau cover.
As mentioned earlier, the new 2026 Lexus RZ will debut in Europe first, with the U.S. launch expected to follow at a later date. The timeline for the American release may be influenced by the evolving landscape of U.S. tariffs on imported goods, as the RZ is currently assembled in Japan.
