New Lexus RZ 300e, the Japanese electric SUV now with front-wheel drive

Just a couple of years ago the Lexus RZ became the first fully electric model from the Japanese brand, arriving at dealerships shortly afterwards with the RZ 450e version as the only option available. Two years on, the range is being expanded with a more affordable option that will sit at the entry point of the line-up, named RZ 300e.

When Lexus launched the RZ 450e on the market, its mechanical layout was defined by two electric motors, one producing 150 kW on the front axle and another with 80 kW on the rear, resulting in a combined system output of 230 kW (313 CV), which is sent to all four wheels through the full-time all-wheel drive system the brand calls Direct4.

The new Lexus RZ 300e is a new entry point to this model, keeping the same essence and the same quality of equipment across its different trim levels, so the main difference lies in its mechanicals. The RZ 300e uses only the 150 kW (204 CV) motor for the front axle, with 266 Nm of torque, so drive is front-wheel only, which does not prevent it from accelerating quickly to 100 km/h in 8.0 seconds.

Otherwise, the RZ 300e’s electrical system is similar to that of the RZ 450e, meaning it still uses a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 71.4 kWh. Thanks to this battery, the Lexus RZ 300e achieves a WLTP combined range of 480 kilometres when equipped with 18-inch Aero EV wheels, which drops to 419 kilometres with the 20-inch Premium EV wheels. With the same wheel options, the RZ 450e recorded ranges of 440 and 395 kilometres respectively.

Lexus will offer the new RZ 300e in the e-Business, e-Executive and e-Luxury equipment levels, with very appealing equipment from the e-Business trim onwards, including a heated steering wheel and front seats, the 12.3-inch Lexus Link Pro multimedia system with integrated premium navigation, Bizone climate control with Nanoe X technology, or the Smart Entry hands-free access system. Not to forget other features such as the dimmable panoramic roof available on the e-Luxury trim, or the radiant heating system and power tailgate on the e-Executive and e-Luxury trims. All topped off with the latest third-generation Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 safety systems.

The new Lexus RZ 300e can now be ordered at the brand’s Spanish dealerships, and deliveries to its future owners are expected to begin from September, with prices starting at 57,900 euros for the e-Business trim, 62,900 euros for the e-Executive trim and 68,900 euros for the e-Luxury trim.