Lexus RZ range extended with single motor option

Lexus is expanding its RZ range with a new longer-range model and a cheaper entry level version.

The RZ is Lexus’s first dedicated electric model and has been on sale since 2023 exclusively in twin-motor, all-wheel-drive guise. Later this year, that RZ 450e model will be joined by the RZ 300e.

The RZ 300e will use a single, front mounted motor to deliver 201bhp and 196lb ft, compared with the 450e’s 309bhp/320lb ft. That means a drop in 0-62mph acceleration from 5.3 to 8 seconds but does bring an increase in range. Like the 450e, the RZ 300e will use a 71.4kWh battery which, in the front-wheel-drive version, will return up to 297 miles of range, 25 miles more than the 450e manages.

Also coming later this year is a new entry level specification. The Urban trim level will be available on both the 300e and 450e versions of the car, and sit beneath the existing Premium grade. There’s no word on price but the 450e currently starts at £59,995 and we’d expect the 300e to be a few thousand cheaper than that.

While it’s described as an entry level trim, Urban models still feature 18-inch alloys, the Lexus Link Pro multimedia system with 14-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone charger, dual-zone climate control, heated steering wheel and a 10-speaker audio system. It also gets the full Lexus Safety System+ driver assistance setup, plus ‘Intelligent Clearance Sonar’ with front and rear sensors, rear cross traffic alert with auto-braking and the Safe Exit Assist system to help prevent doors inadvertently being opened into the path of traffic approaching from the rear.

Other trim changes include the option to specify 18-inch wheels on Premium and Premium Plus models to help improve the car’s driving range.