First photos of the model portray the RZ as a close relative of the Toyota BZ4X and, by default, the Subaru Solterra. Its design was first previewed in the Lexus LF-Z Electrified concept, which made its debut earlier this year.
The RZ will make its way to market as the company’s second electric vehicle (EV) but the company’s first EV to be sold in America (the UX 300e was only for the China market). It is expected to wear the RZ 450e badge, a name the company has already trademarked.
The “450” part of the SUV’s moniker likely points to the fact that the Lexus will be more powerful than the BZ4X, which offers 201 horsepower. The RZ is expected to have the automaker’s new Direct4 system technology, which allows the SUV to switch between two-, four- and all-wheel drive as conditions necessitate.
Also expect the model to wear new Lexus badging across its rear, like on the NX, and possibly the typical “L” emblem up front.
With the addition of the model, Lexus will become one of the few premium or luxury automakers to bring a two-row EV to market in the U.S. Mercedes-Benz has promised that the electric version of the GLB is on the way and BMW has North American deliveries of the iX in its plans for the U.S. and Volvo will ship the C40 to the U.S. next year.
More information about the SUV, including its price and on-sale date, are expected to be announced later this year.
