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2026 Lexus RZ goes on sale with more power and smarter charging
Lexus has launched the refreshed 2026 RZ electric compact luxury crossover nationwide, offering a broader lineup, stronger powertrains and new charging conveniences. Pricing starts at $47,295 and stretches to $58,295 for the range-topping models, putting the RZ squarely into contention in the premium EV crossover segment.
Trim lineup and pricing
The 2026 RZ family now includes the 350e and 350e Premium (front-wheel drive), midrange 450e AWD and 450e AWD Premium and Luxury trims, plus a newly introduced 550e F Sport AWD. The expanded range gives buyers more choices across price, performance and feature sets.
Highlights:
- Starting price: $47,295
- Top price: $58,295
- Trims: 350e, 350e Premium, 450e AWD, 450e AWD Premium, Luxury, 550e F Sport AWD
Power and performance
Lexus sharpened the RZ’s powertrain portfolio. The entry 350e models deliver about 221 hp with front-wheel drive. The 450e AWD variants produce roughly 308 hp, while the new 550e F Sport AWD pushes output to an impressive 402 hp—enough to challenge quicker luxury rivals such as the Tesla Model Y Performance in straight-line pace.
For buyers who want extra grunt without stepping up a model, Lexus offers a dealer-installed performance accessory for the 450e AWD that boosts output to 375 hp and cuts the 0–60 mph run to about 4.3 seconds. The upgrade is priced at $1,750 (excluding destination).
Battery, range and charging upgrades
Improvements to the battery electric system for 2026 focus on efficiency gains and faster charging. Lexus says system optimizations increase usable range and shorten charge times, while software and hardware updates enhance on-road dynamics.
Key charging features include:
- Native compatibility with the SAE J3400 North American Charging System (NACS)
- Access to the Tesla Supercharger Network alongside Ionna, ChargePoint and EVgo
- New Plug & Charge capability for simplified payment and authentication
- Intelligent Apple Maps EV routing integrated into Lexus Interface multimedia
Lexus will provide complimentary NACS adapters to owners of 2023–2025 RZ models through dealers, and all 2026 Lexus BEVs ship with adapters that enable backward compatibility with SAE J1772 and Combined Charging System (CCS) stations—maximizing flexibility for public charging.
Design and production
The RZ retains its compact luxury crossover silhouette but benefits from subtle tuning to suspension and software to sharpen handling. Production continues at Toyota’s Motomachi plant in Japan, where Lexus assembles the RZ alongside other flagship models.
"We put our Lexus guests first in everything we do," said Shawn Domeracki, vice president of Lexus Sales and Dealer Development. "From access to new charging hardware to software-enabled upgrades available for all Lexus BEV drivers, we're excited to be able to surprise and delight our guests throughout their Lexus ownership experiences."
Market positioning and verdict
Lexus is positioning the RZ as a premium, well-rounded BEV aimed at buyers who want refinement, strong technology and growing charging convenience rather than the raw, minimalist approach of some competitors. The 550e F Sport AWD gives the RZ a genuine performance halo, while charging support—including Tesla Supercharger access and NACS compatibility—removes a key barrier for luxury EV adoption in the U.S.
Whether you prioritize efficiency, tech or a sportier driving experience, the 2026 RZ lineup offers a compelling mix. For many luxury buyers, the combination of Lexus build quality, improved range and broader charging options will make the RZ a more complete package in 2026.
If you’re shopping luxury electric crossovers this year, the refreshed RZ deserves a test drive—especially the 450e with the performance upgrade or the potent 550e F Sport AWD if you want electric acceleration without compromises.
Source: autoevolution
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