LEXUS Finally Has an EV - Should You Buy the 2023 LEXUS RZ450e?

Three trims available in Canada with standard DIRECT4 AWD
Signature - $64,950
Luxury - $73,550
Executive - $80,950

Lexus has already enhanced its portfolio of luxury vehicles with the application of the Lexus Driving Signature. Introduced to all new models released since its debut on the 2021 Lexus IS, this is a uniquely Lexus driving experience that aims to achieve predictable, linear responses to driver intentions. For the RZ, Lexus engineers pushed the Lexus Driving Signature to an even higher level. Lexus applied its first dedicated BEV platform to maximize vehicle performance and driving pleasure. Engineers then developed the all-new DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system to control front and rear drive force according to driving and road surface conditions. The result is impressive start-up acceleration, handling stability that ensures confident driving, and low power consumption. The standard shift lever is replaced with a dial-type shift knob – a Lexus first that contributes to the sleek interior design.
Curbside, the RZ’s body captures the seamless acceleration and dynamic, torque-filled performance that are intrinsic qualities of pure battery EVs. L-signature daytime running lights are joined on the nose by a striking, heated and illuminated Lexus “L” emblem, while LEXUS is spelled out across the rear of the vehicle, above the blade-shaped taillight.
Inside, a minimalist yet luxurious and spacious interior amplifies the goals of sustainable mobility through the application of mindfully sourced materials. Driver and passengers will enjoy the available panoramic roof that visually opens up the space, the ambient lighting system that welcomes Guests to the cabin, and the comfort of a highly efficient heating system featuring a Lexus-first radiant heater.
All RZ models feature the Lexus Interface – the brand’s newest, most user-friendly multimedia and connectivity system, featuring a 14” touchscreen and natural language voice commands. All models also feature an impressive portfolio of active and passive safety features, including Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, a backup camera with back guide monitor, eight airbags, the Blind Spot Monitor system with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, the Digital Latch with Safe Exit Assist system, and the Rear Seat Reminder system.
Lexus will offer Canadian Guests a choice of three RZ models to suit a variety of tastes:
The 2023 Lexus RZ 450e Signature (starting MSRP: $64,950) welcomes Guests to the Lexus luxury BEV experience. This model features 18” five-spoke alloy wheels with dark metallic grey and machined finish, LED headlamps and tail lamps, headlamp washers, the Lexus Drive Mode Select system with Sport, Normal, and ECO settings, NuLuxe upholstery, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, a 10-speaker audio system with 14” touch screen display, the Lexus Interface (with Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Remote Connect), a 7” digital instrument cluster, single-setting ambient lighting system, dual-zone automatic climate control, a wireless charging system for personal electronics, and a Level 1 vehicle charging cable for a 120V outlet.
The 2023 Lexus RZ 450e Luxury (starting MSRP: $73,550) builds on the Signature model, adding a fixed glass panoramic moon roof, power back door with kick-sensor activation, driver’s seat memory system, ventilated front seats, 20” split 10-spoke alloy wheels with dark metallic grey and machined finish, the Lexus Interface (with Drive Connect as well), a single setting ambient lighting with shadow feature, door courtesy lamps, premium instrument panel decoration, Parking Support with Brake, the Lexus Panoramic View Monitor system, and additional safety technologies including Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Change Assist, and Front Cross Traffic Alert.
The 2023 Lexus RZ 450e Executive (starting MSRP: $80,950) further enhances the Luxury model, adding Ultra-suede upholstery, heated rear seats, fixed glass panoramic moon roof with dimming feature, head-up display, 13-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, the Lexus Adaptive High Beam system with dynamic leveling, 20” split 10-spoke alloy wheels with gunmetal finish, a digital key with key card, a high-grade meter cluster, acoustic front and rear side glass, multi-colour ambient illumination system with shadow feature, and the Lexus Advanced Park system.

[RF-ituv]

I switched from the Tesla Model Y to the Lexus RZ450e (18 inch wheels) and it was the best decision ever. Do not listen to the skeptics /critics. The range and efficiency is amazing. 95% of my driving is in the city (Washington DC) at speeds below 35 MPH and I average well over 4.5 kWh/mi. On a recent drive, I got 7.2 kWh/mi. Using regen at lowest setting is key to getting maximum efficiency because Lexus designed an adaptive automatic regen braking system that recognizes when the car needs to slow down (for curves or stopped traffic) and blends in appropriate regen and friction braking as needed to simulate a true one pedal driving experience.

The RZ’s ride quality, powertrain refinement, quietness and sound system all blow the Tesla Model Y away. Lexus discounted this heavily so it ended up being a $43, 000 car.

As for the Normal/Eco/Range settings, once you sign in, it remembers your preferred settings. The radiant heat feature is genius BTW — feels like a warm blanket on your legs. Safety features like Safe Exit Assist prevent doors from opening if a car or cyclist is approaching (can be overridden). There are so many thoughtful touches and safety features, makes Tesla looks pretty crude and ancient.

[sammygoris]

I disagree with all the people saying 'do more reviews of the base model'. You already do it very well, but it's better to show all the features but know and tell the viewers what features ARE NOT offered in the base model. It's hard to review cars if half the features you're talking about are missing. But enjoyed the video myself!

[huanronghu]

honestly, even if it is a base model, it is a lexus, not a toyota, so there should be a powered tailgate

[sophaman]

My 2022 venza hybrid limited lock unlock front and rear door too just put the finger on the top of the door handles very convenient by the way beautiful car thanks for your video take care bye from milton Ontario Canada 🇨🇦

[Operafiend]

Nice scoop....I've not seen any other reviews for this yet! Benny is adorable, congrats

[stephenwinter]

Hello from southern Ontario thanks for the presentation

[Aikynbreusov]

That white color makes this Lexus a perfect fit for Storm Trooper vehicle for the next Star War

[GammaPanda]

Great review as always. I think it would be helpful to provide more info on what is an optional upgrade on base trims, and for the top trims you review, mention what is an option that you have to pay for. That way all basis are covered and we can get a better idea of all trims and options available. Also welcome to the fam Bennie!

[markgarcia]

If the range and charging speed is anything similar to the bz4x, this ev is too expensive.

[mylexrcfupgrades]

Got you on the Night Rider thing; Kit! Like!

[Jrbettis]

Pass through harkens back to the Gen 4 RX. K.I.T.T. steering and you don't have to turn the wheel/yoke past 11 or 1 (clockface) depending which way you're turning.

[ALS]

As a 7 time Lexus owner (now an RZ and an LX) I buy the brand because the service is head and shoulders better than any other car brand I have ever owned. And for the EV purchase I looked and looked at Tesla, Lucid, Ioniq, Rivian, BMW, and Volvo, but the dealerships in my area for those brands (and I have owned Volvo and BMW) or the service locations and reviews for those brands without dealerships) really suck hind tit compared to the Lexus service experience.

[Larseus]

Beautiful car, I would totally get one but the range is not competitive for the price. I hope in the next few years it gets there!

[bobdrago]

Great review. Now I gotta decide lease or buy. With battery tech still in flux, maybe lease. Gifted my fully loaded 2013 Lexus 450h to my MD son ( still paying off his loans) and I love Lexus for the bulletproof reliability, luxury and comfort. My Polestar 2 lease ends in 2025 and maybe by then Lexus battery tech will improve to make this a viable purchase.

[denault]

How about the mileage and range, I guess in Part II.

[stephenwinter]

Problem with the yoke steering wheel is I have a steering wheel knob because of medical issues

[reikasdad]

are the lexus models subject to the bz4x/solterra recalls too?

[stephenwinter]

Vinfast are very good but you have to accept the monthly battery program which I think is unfortunate

[bme]

wow, putting PPF on that front end will be a major headache.

[Thulebeez]

Well I am glad you said RZ instead of RZeee. Looking forward to your next review on Charging AC versus DC speeds and throttling, real world range test for city, highway and country road driving. Maybe you can also do a 1000km drive challenge with the RZ450e.