The 2026 Lexus RZ will have more power, greater range, and faster charging speeds than the 2025 model it replaces. It will also give drivers a tactile experience missing from other electric vehicles (EVs) — the ability to shift gears, albeit virtually.
If this sounds familiar, it’s because we told you this was likely back in March. That’s when Lexus first revealed the 2026 edition of its electric SUV, in China. At the time, the company said a U.S. version would come soon.
This week is “soon,” as Lexus has unveiled the RZ that will appear in American dealerships. The company hasn’t revealed pricing. The 2025 model in showrooms now starts at $43,975 after a mandatory $1,175 destination fee.
Mechanically New
For 2026, the RZ gets a new battery and new motors. The new gear means a power upgrade as well as longer driving ranges.
Three grades give shoppers a choice of how much range and power they want. A front-wheel-drive (FWD) RZ 350e will get 221 horsepower from a single electric motor and offer “approximately 300 miles” of driving range, according to Lexus. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) RZ 450e will get 308 hp from two motors and 260 miles of range. A top-of-the-line RZ 550e F Sport model will also be all-wheel drive, this time with 402 total hp and 225 miles of range.
The 550e also gets “M Mode,” which is “an electronic system that provides virtual manual gear shifting via paddle shifters.” It doesn’t have real gears, but it simulates the feeling of shifting for those who love it.
Lexus has been working toward a shiftable EV for four years. It won’t quite be the first shifting EV. Hyundai’s low-volume, high-performance Ioniq 5 N is on sale now with a similar setting.
Charging will now come via a Tesla-style North American Charging System (NACS) port. Lexus says it will charge from 10% to 80% of battery capacity in about 30 minutes — faster than the 2025 model.
Cosmetically Refreshed
Cosmetic changes are minor for 2026, but the 550e F Sport gets black exterior trim elements.
Inside, the company says it has improved the electrochromic panoramic roof, “enabling greater shading when opaque and a clearer view of the outside when transparent.”
For the 500e, designers used black Ultrasuede upholstery with blue stitching accents and laser-etched patterns on the center console and door trim. Aluminum pedals and footrests add to the sporty look.
Buyers can opt for a unique design element – subtly animating accent lighting in the doors. “Based on Lexus’ design philosophy, ‘Time in Design,’ the faintly changing shadow patterns evoke the passage of time, providing a comfortable cabin experience for the vehicle’s occupants,” the company explains.