2026 Lexus RZ: What a Difference a Refresh Can Make
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Loulé, Portugal—Lexus and Toyota owe their tremendous success to an ability to combine bold moves with an extremely careful approach, sometimes to the point of exaggeration. Look no further than the Lexus RZ for evidence. Introduced three years ago, this midsize luxury crossover shares a dedicated EV architecture called e-TNGA with the Toyota bZ (formerly known as bZ4X) and Subaru Solterra, which launched at the same time.
Unlike these non-identical twins, however, the RZ has been largely spared by critics despite its unimpressive range, relatively slow charging speeds and daily limits on the number of DC fast charging sessions. Let’s put it another way: it’s been criticized less harshly. The RZ even managed to attract more customers in Canada than most of its direct competitors last year thanks in no small part to the strength and appeal of the Lexus name.
- Also: 2026 Lexus RZ Gets More (or Less) Power, Longer Range, NACS Port
- Also: Future Toyota, Lexus EVs to Add Tesla’s NACS Connector
On the other hand, it was outsold almost 20-to-1 by the Lexus RX, which has proven to be a star since its introduction over 25 years ago and boasts a very similar look and size (wheelbase included). The company intends to close this gap as early as this year following a series of major revisions and upgrades as well as a broader range of models.
A Transplant That Pays Off
In order to spur RZ sales and become a leader in the segment, Lexus first had to find a way to increase power, responsiveness and endurance. Its engineers therefore came up with a larger-capacity 76.96kWh battery (previously 71.04kWh) that benefits from a new liquid-cooling system and easily supplies energy to the equally new, more muscular eAxle motors. The front motor now produces 224 hp instead of 201 hp, while the rear unit matches that output where it used to generate only 107 hp (select models).
In addition, the new battery can extract up to 150 kW on fast charging stations and will also charge faster on Level 1 and Level 2 charging stations, with a maximum of 11 kW instead of 7 kW previously. Not only that, but the daily limit on fast charging imposed on the first RZs is no more. And as you’ve probably heard, the new 2026 models will have access to thousands of additional public chargers including compatible Tesla Superchargers thanks to a standard NACS port.
Catering to More Drivers
Canadian brand manager Martin Gilbert makes no secret of his confidence and ambitions for the revised and revitalized 2026 RZ. He actually expects sales to triple this year. How? Well, the number of models will increase from three to five—the more the better, as the RX has demonstrated.
In order to make the RZ more accessible and to appeal to pragmatic buyers, Lexus is adding the FWD-equipped RZ 350e, a configuration that will reassure many about winter driving. Powered by the new 224-hp motor, this entry-level model boasts a projected range of 486 km, longer than that of any other RZ. According to Lexus, it accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 7.5 seconds, which is perfectly fine and in keeping with its more reasonable aspirations.
At the other end of the lineup, the new-for-2026 RZ 550e F Sport brings a serious dose of sportiness and thrills to the RZ series. First of all, the dual motors generate a combined 408 hp, promising a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 4.4 seconds. Chief engineer Yasuyuki Terada and his team also went to great lengths to refine the driving experience beyond the stiffer chassis and revised suspension tuning that all RZ models benefit from this year. Mission accomplished. On the tight Portuguese roads and faster highways, the RZ 550e F Sport proved to be as solid, stable and precise as it was quiet and comfortable—except for the limited foot space in the second row.
The top-line RZ visually stands out from its lesser siblings with a more sharply cut front bumper as well as a more sculpted rear end topped by a small spoiler. The aero-designed 20-inch wheels are exclusive to the RZ 550e F Sport, too, and fitted with wide performance tires (235/50 front, 255/45 rear). Unsurprisingly, they shorten the vehicle’s projected range to 366 km.
A Big Tease
In Canada, the 2026 RZ 550e F Sport will still not be available with the sophisticated steer-by-wire system that Lexus engineers have spent a decade developing and perfecting. This innovative feature, which eliminates the mechanical link between the steering wheel and front axle, is said to improve steering precision and enjoyment. Currently exclusive to Europe, it has yet to be certified for use in North America, so don’t hold your breath.
Behind the wheel of the RZ 550e F Sport, Canadian drivers will find solace in activating M Mode, which simulates eight gears and is controlled through the paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Acceleration is accompanied by amusing, if unrealistic, sounds. Believe it or not, there's even a fake backfire sound when downshifting. The system is not as advanced or exciting as that of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, but still nice to have—especially when paired with the electronic, yoke-style steering wheel of the European versions of the RZ 550e we drove in Portugal.
The Happy Medium
Slotting between the new RZ 550e and RZ 350e models, the RZ 450e returns for 2026 with a selection of three trim levels including Signature, Luxury and Executive with varying degrees of luxury and convenience. Output is rated at 313 hp, which represents a modest 5-hp bump over the 2025 model. On the other hand, projected range in RZ 450e Signature trim increases from 354 to 420 km. The RZ 450e Luxury and Executive won’t travel that far because they ride on 20-inch wheels instead of the standard 18-inch alloys. Still, Lexus expects the RZ 450e Luxury to become the most popular model among Canadian customers, accounting for up to 40 percent of total RZ sales.
One thing's for sure: amid this display of power and luxury, the base RZ 350e should not be overlooked despite its lesser specs. This model has everything that many buyers look for including serious range and quick, easy charging, combined with the usual Lexus staples of comfort, quality and reliability. Its smooth ride, sure-footed handling and decent performance will prove quite adequate and satisfying in everyday driving. Want real excitement? That’s what the new RZ 550e F Sport is here for.
