Lexus boss says EV will be revealed this spring
New photos show rear and sides of the Lexus RZ EV
Lexus just announced its 2021 global sales results, but it’s not those figures that have our attention. Instead, it’s a much better look at the electric Lexus RZ that’s caught our attention ahead of its debut this spring.
The new photos let us see the back and sides of the Lexus RZ 450e. To little surprise, the crossover shares much of its appearance with the Toyota bZ4X (and Subaru Solterra platform-mate).
Lexus still has gone to some lengths to differentiate the model. We’ve previously seen the grille, which turns the Lexus signature gaping spindle grille into one that keeps the same motif in a closed-off form. If you’re a fan of the current Lexus face, this might not be to your liking, but it’s certainly less controversial.
At the back, much like the RX gas crossover, the RZ has a long black-out C-pillar that trails down into the tailgate. A slim LED strip runs along the width of the rear of the RZ, without the bold kick down of the similar lighting on the Toyota.
We’re expecting a full reveal for the electric Lexus this spring. The automaker hasn’t yet shown the interior or any powertrain information for the new model, and it’s not clear if it will share a 215 hp electric driveline with the bZ4x. We expect some premiumness to be added to the Lexus here as well.
Lexus posted strong sales for the year, up 6 percent globally to 760,012, and hit a 12 percent increase in North America with 332,000.
“We will also accelerate the development of electric vehicles starting with the BEV exclusive model “RZ” in spring, we will release a series of new models that will accompany the lifestyles of a variety of customers. Please look forward to the future of Lexus,” said Lexus International President Koji Sato.
