2026 Lexus RZ Gets Sporty New Trim, Tesla-Style Charge Port

Lexus is breathing new life into its first-ever electric vehicle (EV), with more power and range than before to go with quicker charging times across a trio of trims to choose from.

The 2026 Lexus RZ will be offered in the choice of front- or all-wheel drive, with the former delivering an estimated 480 km on a full charge. Previously, the RZ was offered in a single 450e trim with all-wheel drive, making the 350e the first in the lineup to feature front-wheel drive.

Unlike the closely related Toyota bZ that was recently updated, the base RZ will use the same 77-kWh battery pack as all-wheel-drive examples. For the sake of comparison, the front-wheel-drive bZ uses a 57.1-kWh battery.

Meanwhile, both the 450e and 550e F Sport trims feature four-wheel traction and as much 418 km of range for the former and 360 km with the latter. Regardless of trim, the RZ now features a built-in Tesla-style charge port and an 11-kW onboard charger, up from the seven-kW unit from before.

Maximum charging speeds are the same 150 kW as before, although the benchmark 10-to-80 per cent jump is faster this time. According to Lexus, it can happen in around 30 minutes in ideal conditions.

The front-wheel-drive RZ 350e makes 221 hp, according to Lexus, while the all-wheel-drive 450e makes the same 308 hp as it did last year. Finally, the sporty 550e F Sport makes 402 hp. To boost its sporting intentions, the range-topping trim is also set to include a so-called M Mode, which will provide simulated manual shifting via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

A similar system was first introduced with the high-performance Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, providing a sensation similar to engine braking when downshifting with a gas-powered vehicle. While it remains to be seen how the RZ’s system compares, Lexus promises “a sportier, more responsive driving feel.”

The RZ looks largely the same as before, unlike the bZ that’s had its style transformed for 2026, although the top trim’s F Sport treatment gives it a unique look in the lineup. Apparently the fixed panoramic glass roof has also been updated for more contrast between the electrochromic opaque and clear settings.

The 2026 Lexus RZ is set to go on sale at dealers across Canada later this year. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.