2026 Lexus RZ gains Tesla plug, 300-mile range, and simulated gear shifts

Lexus North America has revealed the specs of the 2026 Lexus RZ SUV, which is an upgrade on multiple fronts. It has a higher driving range, a NACS plug, a more powerful motor, a faster AC charger, and simulated gear shifts. However, the new version will apparently skip steer-by-wire, a feature that Lexus is offering in Europe.

The RZ will come in three trims: 350e, 450e, and a new 550e F Sport. The 350e has the longest driving range at 300 miles, thanks to a 74.69 kWh battery pack. The FWD drivetrain will generate 221 hp, about 10 percent more than the 2025 version, and propel the car from a standstill to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds.

The 450e has the same battery and an extra electric motor on the rear wheel. It will produce 308 hp, powerful enough for a 0 to 60 mph time of just 4.9 seconds. However, the higher output comes with a driving range penalty as the trim can only last 260 miles between charges.

The new 550e F Sport has a slightly larger 76.96 kWh battery and two motors capable of 402 hp. It can zoom from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. However, some buyers might find the 225-mile driving range too much compromise.

Lexus is equipping the 2026 RZ with Tesla’s NACS charging, allowing it to use the popular Superchargers. The SUV can charge from 10 to 80 percent in less than 30 minutes. All trims come with 11 kW AC charging, an upgrade from the 7 kW on the outgoing versions.

Meanwhile, a conspicuous omission in the North American specs sheet is steer-by-wire, which would have allowed the steering wheel or yoke to turn the front wheels without being physically connected to them. The European version has been confirmed to offer this feature.

However, North American drivers who purchase the 550e F Sport trim can console themselves with Toyota’s M Mode, a virtual gear shift setting the carmaker claims will make the EV sportier and more responsive.