2026 LEXUS RZ ADDS MORE POWER AND PERFORMANCE

• New, extended lineup offers more power, greater efficiency and dynamic performance

• Optimization of the battery electric system increases range and shortens charge times

• Expanded lineup includes RZ 350e and RZ 550e F SPORT AWD with Lexus-first virtual manual gear shift system (M Mode) to promote an engaging driving experience

• On sale later this year at Lexus dealers across Canada 

TORONTO, May 20, 2025 – Thoroughly enhanced for 2026, the battery electric luxury SUV features comprehensive revisions that deliver more power, greater range, and a new driving experience.

Since the launch of the RX 400h in 2005, Lexus has been a pioneer in electrification within the luxury market. Based on its electrification vision 'Lexus Electrified', Lexus aims to promote a multi-pathway approach to the adoption of electric vehicles such as HEVs (hybrid vehicles), PHEVs (plug-in hybrid vehicles) and BEVs (battery electric vehicles) to address the diverse needs of its Guests and markets. Additionally, Lexus works to significantly enhance basic performance using electrification technology, offering a driving experience and lifestyle unique to Lexus BEVs. 

The RZ launched in 2023 and was Lexus’ first globally available, purpose-built battery-electric vehicle, embodying the unique Lexus driving experience and design brought by electrification technology. 

The 2026 RZ features a redesigned battery electric system, delivering increased motor output, an extended driving range and reduced charging time under ideal conditions. In addition, it debuts a new model to the lineup, the RZ 550e F SPORT AWD, which is equipped with higher-output front and rear motors, achieving a more powerful and exhilarating driving experience. The 2026 RZ also introduces a front-wheel drive model for the first time in Canada, called RZ 350e. The RZ lineup offers three different power options: 224 total system horsepower (RZ 350e FWD), 313 total system horsepower (RZ 450e AWD), and 408 total system horsepower (RZ 550e F SPORT AWD).

With a diverse lineup, the new RZ is designed to meet the needs of a broad range of drivers, from those who prioritize daily convenience and practicality to those who want a more engaging and dynamic driving experience.

Introduction of the RZ 550e F SPORT AWD

F SPORT arrives to the RZ lineup, giving customers an option for a more exhilarating driving experience and sportier styling. 

The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD generates a maximum system output of 408 total system horsepower, making it the most powerful RZ model. The suspension has been specially tuned with adjustments to the damper and spring settings to provide an exhilarating ride.  

Lexus-first ‘M Mode’

Lexus is also introducing M Mode on the 2026 RZ 550e F SPORT AWD, an electronic system that provides virtual manual gear shifting via paddle shifters. This innovation helps to deliver a sportier, more responsive driving feel. M Mode is a system that allows drivers to control power output with paddle shifters, as if using a manual transmission.

The system features a virtual eight-speed gear setup where drivetrain output is determined by combining the virtual power source torque, calculated based on throttle input and vehicle speed, with the gear ratio selected via the paddle shifters. To enhance the experience, Lexus has simulated engine and exhaust sounds and a shift guide meter in the instrument display to allow drivers to intuitively track gear changes in real-time.

Revised BEV System

The 2026 RZ features a revised BEV system with key changes including the introduction of a new eAxle and a new lithium-ion battery. Battery capacity has increased to 76.96 kW for all models in Canada. 

The eAxle sees an improved motor output of 167 kW (previously 150 kW in the front and 80 kW in the rear) and, depending on the model, the system utilizes a high-torque eAxle unit that drives the front wheel set and, for the RZ 450e AWD and RZ 550e F SPORT AWD, the rear wheel set as well.  

The new, high-capacity lithium-ion battery has been enhanced by improving and increasing the number of battery cells, enabling the higher output from the new eAxle’s electric motor. In addition, high power performance is further supported by an updated water-cooling system for the BEV system and battery that helps maximize output.

Increased driving range and faster charging

The 2026 RZ adopts the North American Charging System (NACS) charging port (SAE J3400) on the passenger’s side of the vehicle, enabling access to thousands of high-speed charging stations across Canada It will also have Level One and Level Two AC charging with a higher capacity 11 kW on-board AC charger (up from 7 kW capacity on the prior model year). Under ideal conditions, when using DC fast charging*, it is capable of charging from 10% to-80% battery capacity in around 30 minutes. 

The vehicle comes with an improved Manufacturer-estimated driving range of approximately 486 kilometres for the RZ 350e and approximately 420 kilometres for the RZ 450e AWD when equipped with 18-inch tires and charged under ideal conditions. The new RZ 550e F SPORT AWD sees a Manufacturer-estimated driving range of approximately 366 kilometres when equipped with 20-inch tires and charged under ideal conditions.

*Ranges and charging times will vary depending on weather and other factors.

Lexus Driving Signature

Lexus Driving Signature (LDS) is a guiding philosophy behind the development of Lexus vehicles, providing a unified driving experience across the lineup. LDS emphasizes a linear connection between the driver and vehicle and promotes a smoother, more comfortable ride. There is also exceptional quietness unique to Lexus BEVs, achieved through source-level noise and vibration suppression.

For the 2026 RZ, an increased structural rigidity around the radiator support and the addition of a rear brace reduce deformation of the body in all directions, resulting in a clean and linear steering response. 

Also lending to the RZ’s drive performance is the refined suspension system, which supports vehicle dynamics and ride comfort. For the Macpherson strut suspension in the front, the low-frequency damping force has been increased to create a flatter, more stable ride. In the rear suspension, an expanded damper variable range optimizes both low- and high-frequency damping forces to improve handling stability and ride comfort.   

DIRECT4

DIRECT4, an all-wheel drive system first introduced with the 2023 Lexus RX, has been further refined for the 2026 RZ AWD models as the system continues to optimize drive force, traction, and posture control (e.g., pitch and dive).  

The power distribution has been revised, achieving better traction performance and driving stability. During starting and straight-line acceleration, the system uses a front-to-rear drive force ratio between 60:40 and 0:100 to minimize vehicle pitch and provide a more direct acceleration response. During cornering, the drive force is distributed between 80:20 and 0:100 based on driving conditions, utilizing data such as vehicle speed and steering angle.  

During turn-in, more power is directed to the front wheels to help achieve smooth and precise cornering. At corner exit, torque is allocated to each wheel’s contact load, allowing for even acceleration and vehicle stability. The result is a smooth, responsive cornering experience, and precise line tracing.  

When the driver selects Range mode to maximize efficiency, the front-to-rear balance is maintained at 50:50. 

Achieving Exceptional Quietness and Body Rigidity

A high level of body rigidity is key to achieving responsive performance, faithful to the driver’s inputs. For 2026, additional bracing between the lower rear body and rear wheelhouses contribute to the vehicle’s stability and responsiveness. 

To further pursue the refined quietness of Lexus BEVs, a rear floor silencer has been installed under the back seat to suppress noise from the rear drive motor in the RZ 450e and RZ 550e F SPORT models. Additionally, to address road and wind noise, soundproofing has been introduced to the tonneau cover, back door trim and deck box. A high-damping adhesive on the body floor panel has also been used to reduce vibrations and contribute to a high-quality ride comfort.

Exterior designed for performance

The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD has an exterior design that includes distinctive black F SPORT features such as the F SPORT emblem, rear spoiler, front and rear bumper moldings, front grille, and 20-inch wheels with aero covers, which contribute to weight reduction and help to improve energy efficiency by smoothing airflow. Blue brake calipers will be available to the F SPORT grade.

The F SPORT model will be available in an exclusive new colour, Wind, a solid light gray with subtle metallic highlights, a bold contrast to the black F SPORT features. In total, seven exterior monotone colours and thee exterior bi-tone colours will be offered across the RZ lineup. 

The evolution of the RZ interior

The 2026 RZ’s cabin remains a minimalist, yet airy and maximally appointed luxury environment. The 2026 RZ will offer an improved Dynamic Sky™ Panorama Glass Roof, enabling greater shading when opaque and a clearer view of the outside when transparent.

The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD interior features a sophisticated combination of Black Ultrasuede® interior trim with blue stitching accents available only on this grade. The design includes a centre console with a micro-geometric pattern design, front F SPORT scuff plates, a steering wheel with the F SPORT emblem, and aluminum pedals and footrests, all designed to create a sporty driving experience. 

A Lexus-first, the available Ultrasuede® door trim features a laser-etched pattern design. Following the introduction of Door Trim Shadow Illumination on the RZ in 2023, Lexus has applied another first, adding a subtle flickering movement on the door trim that results in the available Thematic Illumination with Animated Door Trim Shadow Illumination. Based on Lexus' design philosophy “Time in Design,” the faintly changing shadow patterns evoke the passage of time, providing a comfortable cabin experience for the vehicle’s occupants.

2026 RZ Preliminary Specifications

^*1 Provisional testing
^*2 20-inch tires
^*3 18-inch tires
^*4 The batteries are calculated according to IEC 62660-1

Assembled at the Motomachi plant in Japan, the 2026 RZ is expected to go on sale later this year at Lexus dealers across Canada. Full vehicle specs and pricing will be available closer to the on-sale date. For complete and up to date details and specifications on the Lexus RZ Series, visit www.lexus.ca/rz

About Lexus Canada
Lexus Canada is the exclusive Canadian distributor of Lexus luxury cars and sport utility vehicles through a sales and service network of 40 dealers across Canada. Guests have access to a wide range of luxury and performance vehicles, with a total of 12 Lexus nameplates available in Canada, including the country’s largest electrified luxury vehicle lineup (hybrid, plug-in hybrid or battery electric) models. Inspired by bold design, intuitive technology and peak performance, Lexus is committed to delivering the highest quality products and services, and to creating amazing experiences for their Guests. The Lexus RX and RX Hybrid, Lexus NX and NX Hybrid are built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada’s award-winning Cambridge plant. For more information about Lexus and Lexus products, please visit: www.lexus.ca

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