Lexus RZ 450e full electric SUV now in Singapore
Singapore - This could be the second time lucky for Lexus. Their first EV, which was the UX300e did not make much of a ripple for the brand. But now, we have the RZ, a larger SUV, which retails for $403,800*, and is from the ground-up, a purpose-built EV.
For the price tag, owners will enjoy an eight-year Bumper to Bumper warranty, which includes the battery. On-top of this, there is also a five-year Lexus Electrification package which covers essential servicing items, and includes a year’s worth of free Shell Recharge credits.
As with other manufacturers building EVs, there is the need for improved aerodynamics. However, the RZ still retains unmistakable Lexus design hallmarks. Their signature Spindle Grille is interpreted by being embedded into the frontal bodywork, and there is familiar angular bodywork, which is matched with slim front and rear lighting.
The interior boasts what Lexus calls the Tazuna concept, where passengers are greeted with an airy feeling. Controls are intuitively placed around the driver, for ease of access.
Lexus also mentions that they will soon make available, the much hyped Steer-by-Wire system, which eliminates the need for hand-over-hand operation. Lexus says that the electronic steering system provides effortless steering around winding roads and also with tighter turning requirements like u-turns.
The RZ’s dual-motor setup, which is managed by Lexus’ new DIRECT4 all-wheel electronic drive torque control, produces 309hp and 435Nm, and gets the electric SUV from 0-100km/h in 5.3 seconds. The underfloor lithium-ion battery has a capacity of 71.4kWh, which Lexus claims a range of up to 440km. As with many EVs, the RZ has both AC and DC charging capabilities, with the AC charging function providing a charge time of 10 hours. With a 150kW DC charger, it brings the battery from 10 percent to 80 percent capacity in 30 minutes.
For a size comparison, the RZ is moderately smaller than the RX, though they have the same 2850mm wheelbase.
*Price correct at time of publication
PHOTOS Lexus Singapore
