Lexus' Tesla Model Y rival gets racy makeover

The Lexus RZ isn’t the quickest electric SUV in its class, but in limited edition F Sport Performance guise it may just be the most aggressively styled.

Lexus revealed the modified RZ at the Tokyo Auto Salon, and will produce just 100 units for the Japanese market.

It’s based on the RZ Sport Concept revealed at last year’s show, and Lexus says it features 17 special aero parts.

These include a carbon wing and a carbon tuning vane, the latter of which Lexus says uses aerodynamic technology employed in aircraft.

There are actually two rear wings, while the bonnet features a carbon bulge, large vents and a prominent carbon splitter juts out up front.

It rides on unique 21-inch aluminium wheels and is finished in a matte white/silver paint Lexus calls Hakugin – “inspired by the silent silver world of light and shadow”, in the company’s words – with various blue accents.

Underneath the racy exterior is revised suspension, with specially tuned coil springs and shock absorbers.

Inside the cabin, there are more blue accents on the dashboard and Ultrasuede-upholstered seats.

The F Sport Performance doesn’t pack any more power than the regular RZ 450e. There are still 150kW/266Nm and 80kW/169Nm rear electric motors powered by a 71.4kWh lithium-ion battery.

It’s priced at ¥11,800,000, or A$123,964, and will be available to Japanese customers through a lottery system.

The RZ 450e arrived in Australia in 2023. Available here exclusively with all-wheel drive, it’s priced from $121,675 before on-road costs.

The mid-sized luxury SUV is based on the same e-TNGA underpinnings as the more affordable Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra.

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