The refreshed 2026 Lexus RZ doubles down on value, bringing major changes while simultaneously keeping the prices down. In fact, this may just be one of the strongest values in its class, especially considering Lexus’s reputation for reliability. The base 2026 RZ 350e includes dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Every model also includes Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, a power liftgate, a wireless charger, and a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Meanwhile, the Premium trim adds a surround view monitor, a panoramic glass roof, and Intuitive Parking Assist with Automatic Braking. Luxury models add thematic interior ambient lighting, front radiant heating, heated rear seats, and a 13-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system. On the other hand, the F Sport model adds 20-inch alloy wheels with aero covers, simulated manual mode, and trim-specific suspension calibration.
2026 Lexus RZ: Priced for Max Appeal
Pricing starts at $47,295 for the base RZ 350e or $50,795 for the RZ 450e, which includes AWD. The RZ 350e Premium costs $49,495, while the RZ 450e Premium checks in at $52,995. The range-topping RZ 450e Luxurt and RZ 550e F Sport cost the same at $58,295. The closest rivals to the Lexus RZ are the Genesis Electrified GV70, Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, Jeep Wagoneer S, Cadillac Optiq, Tesla Model Y, and Audi Q6 e-tron.
In terms of options, the 2026 RZ only offers a few. In addition to two-tone and premium exterior colors, you can opt for standalone extras like blue brake calipers and a digital rearview mirror. Features like the front radiant heater are available on the Premium variant as part of the Cold Area Package. You can also add 20-inch alloy wheels as a standalone option on lower trims. Option packages on the Premium trim include the Technology and Convenience Packages. These add features like the Digital Key, a head-up display, and a host of additional driver assistance technologies. On the F Sport model, the Luxury Package adds the 13-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system, Digital Key, and all of the features from the Premium trim’s Convenience Package.
Thoroughly Upgraded
Underneath its subtle exterior design refresh, the 2026 Lexus RZ got a major overhaul. It now comes standard with the NACS charging port and plug & charge capability. The RZ 350e and RZ 450e now feature a 74.69-kWh battery pack, while the RZ 550e has a 76.96-kWh unit. In terms of output, the RZ 350e has 221 hp going through the front wheels only. Meanwhile, the RZ 450e has a dual-motor AWD system with 308 hp or 375 hp with a dealer-installed upgrade for an extra $1,750. At the top of the lineup, the RZ 550e has 402 hp.
All models also come with an 11-kW onboard charger and have a peak DC charging rate of 150 kW. Similar to its cousins, the Toyota bZ and Subaru Solterra, the RZ is expected to charge from 10 to 80% in 30 minutes under ideal conditions. It should also include a standard battery preconditioning function. Other changes for 2026 include additional bracing between the lower rear body and the rear wheelhouses. AWD models also receive a floor silencer under the rear seats to keep out noises from the rear motor. Additionally, the RZ receives more soundproofing and extra high-damping adhesive to improve refinement.
Improved AWD
AWD models also see a revised power distribution to enhance traction and stability. In straight-line acceleration, they can vary power from a 60:40 front bias to 0:100 rear bias, minimizing pitch and resulting in a more direct response to acceleration. When cornering, that changes to an 80:20 front bias to a 0:100 rear bias based on vehicle speed and steering input.
The system also sends more power to the front wheels for added smoothness and precision during turn-in. When exiting a corner, torque is allocated to each wheel’s contact load for even acceleration and extra stability. As a result, the RZ has more precise line tracing and smoother, more responsive cornering. Meanwhile, in Range mode, the RZ’s power distribution splits evenly at 50:50 front to rear to help maximize efficiency.
2026 Lexus RZ: Big Range Increase
Thanks to powertrain improvements, the 2026 Lexus RZ sees massive improvements in driving range ratings. The front-drive RZ 350e can travel 301 miles per charge when equipped with the standard 18-inch wheels. Opt for the available 20-inch wheels and that number drops to 284 miles. That’s a significant increase over the outgoing RZ 300e, which the EPA rated at 266 miles with 18-inch wheels or a paltry 224 miles with the 20-inch units.
On the other hand, the RZ 450e jumps from 220 miles to 264 miles with the 18s. With the 20s, it’s rated at 257 miles, or 61 miles more than the outgoing model. Finally, the new RZ 550e F Sport, which comes exclusively with 20-inch alloys has an EPA-estimated rating of 229 miles. Against the competition, the Tesla Model Y remains at the top with every model EPA-rated for over 300 miles. That’s followed by the Audi Q6 e-tron, which is rated up to 321 miles. The Cadillac Optiq and the Lexus are next with similar ratings in most models. The Jeep Wagoneer S, Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, and Genesis Electrified GV70 bring up the rear with no model cracking the 300-mile mark in their EPA ratings.
Now back to the Lexus RZ. We suspect that these are conservative estimates, considering how efficient all three e-TNGA-based EVs are in real world driving. Heck our 2023 Subaru Solterra frequently manages 4.2 miles per kWh or higher. Mind you, that’s with the older 72.8-kWh CATL battery and supposedly less efficient and less powerful electric motors.
Expect the 2026 Lexus RZ to arrive before the end of the year.
Source: Lexus
