
2026 Lexus RZ Review: Price, Range, and Specs For Australia
The 2026 Lexus RZ is a transformed vehicle. Power has increased by 50 kW across the range, battery capacity is larger, driving range has improved by 16 per cent, and a new F Sport variant introduces steer-by-wire with a yoke steering wheel for the first time in any Lexus sold in Australia.
With the entry-level RZ 500e Luxury now starting at $94,131 drive away*. That changes the ownership equation significantly for private and business buyers alike.
Available in Australian showrooms from May 2026, the updated Lexus RZ is offered in three variants: RZ 500e Luxury, RZ 500e Sports Luxury, and the all-new RZ 550e F Sport.
Model Overview: What Is The Lexus RZ?
The Lexus RZ is a mid-size, five-seat, all-electric luxury SUV and Lexus's first dedicated battery-electric vehicle. Built on the e-TNGA platform (shared with the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra), the RZ sits between the NX and RX in the Lexus SUV lineup in terms of size, measuring 4,805 mm long with a 2,850 mm wheelbase.
It's designed for buyers who want to go fully electric while enjoying the luxury, comfort, and driving engagement that Lexus is known for. Every RZ features dual-motor all-wheel drive through Lexus's DIRECT4 system, which distributes power between front and rear axles for precise handling in all conditions.
Trims And Powertrains
RZ 500e Luxury ($94,131 drive away*)
The entry-level RZ is powered by a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 280 kW and 537 Nm. That's a 50 kW increase over the outgoing RZ 450e. A 74.7 kWh lithium-ion battery delivers a WLTP driving range of up to 460 km, a 16 per cent improvement on the previous model. Lexus claims a 0-100 km/h time of 4.6 seconds.
Standard equipment includes a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch multi-information display, NuLuxe upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a dimming panoramic roof, a surround-view camera, wireless phone charging, and Lexus Safety System+.
RZ 500e Sports Luxury ($101,901 drive away*)
The Sports Luxury adds a 13-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system, a digital rear-view mirror, semi-aniline leather-accented upholstery, a head-up display, a hands-free power tailgate, and additional interior ambient lighting. It shares the same 280 kW powertrain and 74.7 kWh battery as the Luxury.
RZ 550e F Sport ($116,601 drive away*)
The range-topping F Sport is the headline act of the updated RZ range. It features a larger 77 kWh battery, a 300 kW dual-motor powertrain, and a claimed 0-100 km/h time of 4.4 seconds. WLTP range is rated at 437 km.
The standout feature is a steer-by-wire system paired with a yoke steering wheel, a first for any Lexus sold in Australia. The yoke rotates approximately 200 degrees lock-to-lock, giving the driver a clear, unobstructed view of the instrument cluster while delivering a precise, responsive steering feel. An Interactive Manual Drive mode lets drivers use paddle shifters to simulate eight gears, complete with reproduced motor sounds, simulated torque response, and a virtual tachometer.
Visually, the F Sport gains a unique front bumper, rear spoiler and diffuser, gloss black alloy wheels, F Sport badging, Ultrasuede sport seats, aluminium pedals, and the option of a two-tone paint finish.
Coming Later: RZ 600e F Sport Performance
A limited-edition RZ 600e F Sport Performance will follow later in 2026. Pricing is yet to be confirmed, but expect a 313 kW powertrain, a carbon fibre roof, six-piston brake callipers, a 20 mm lower ride height, 21-inch Enkei alloy wheels, pumped wheel arches, a vented bonnet, and dual rear spoilers.
Range And Charging
The updated RZ delivers meaningful improvements in both range and charging speed:
- RZ 500e (Luxury and Sports Luxury): 74.7 kWh battery, up to 460 km WLTP range, energy consumption of 18.2 kWh/100km (WLTP combined).
- RZ 550e F Sport: 77 kWh battery, up to 437 km WLTP range, energy consumption of 18.4 kWh/100km (WLTP combined).
DC fast charging at up to 150 kW takes approximately 28 to 30 minutes from 10 to 80 per cent across all variants. AC charging capability has doubled to 22 kW, bringing a full charge time down to approximately 3.5 hours from a compatible wallbox.
Real-world driving tests by Australian reviewers have returned consumption figures around 19 to 20 kWh/100km in mixed conditions, which translates to a real-world range of roughly 370 to 400 km depending on driving style, speed, and conditions.
Interior, Technology, and Safety
The RZ cabin carries the refined craftsmanship expected of a Lexus. The curved instrument binnacle flows into a 14-inch central touchscreen running Lexus's latest multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice control via "Hey Lexus," and satellite navigation.
The dimming panoramic roof adjusts electronically between transparent and opaque, maintaining a calm cabin atmosphere. Boot capacity sits at approximately 452 litres.
The Sports Luxury and F Sport grades add a 13-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, a digital rear-view mirror, and upgraded interior materials. The F Sport's yoke steering wheel and Interactive Manual Drive add a layer of driving engagement that sets the RZ apart in the EV segment.
Safety is comprehensive across the range. Lexus Safety System+ includes autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, adaptive cruise control, lane trace assist, blind spot monitoring with safe exit assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and road sign assist. A surround-view camera is standard. The RZ holds a five-star ANCAP safety rating (tested 2023).
Lexus backs the RZ with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre vehicle warranty and an eight-year, 160,000 km battery warranty.
Pricing, Availability, and Ownership
Here's the full 2026 Lexus RZ pricing:
- RZ 500e Luxury: $94,131 drive away*
- RZ 500e Sports Luxury: $101,901 drive away*
- RZ 550e F Sport: $116,601 drive away*
- RZ 600e F Sport Performance: TBA (arriving late 2026)
The updated RZ range arrives in Australian Lexus showrooms from May 2026.
As a new Lexus owner, you'll receive three years of Lexus Encore membership, which includes complimentary service loan vehicles, door-to-door pick-up and drop-off, DriveCare 24/7 roadside assistance, and exclusive lifestyle benefits. Capped-price servicing is $395 per service.
How Does The Lexus RZ Compare?
The updated pricing positions the RZ strongly against its premium EV competitors:
- Genesis GV60: Starts above $100,000 in Australia, making the RZ 500e Luxury a more affordable entry point to the premium EV segment with a longer driving range.
- Audi Q6 e-tron: From $99,900 before on-road costs. Offers a strong interior and Audi's latest EV platform, but the RZ undercuts it on price while offering comparable range and more standard equipment.
- Polestar 4: Priced close to the RZ 500e, the Polestar offers a different design philosophy with its coupe-style roofline. The Lexus counters with a more traditional SUV shape and the Lexus ownership experience.
- BMW iX xDrive40: A larger, more established premium EV. Buyers choosing between the two are weighing BMW's driving dynamics against Lexus's reliability reputation and the RZ's lower entry price.
The RZ's strengths at these new prices are value for money, Lexus build quality, a proven all-wheel drive system, and the Encore ownership program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Lexus RZ fully electric?
Yes. The RZ is Lexus's first dedicated battery-electric vehicle. It has no petrol engine and produces zero tailpipe emissions.
What is the Lexus RZ range?
Up to 460 km (WLTP) for the RZ 500e variants, and up to 437 km for the RZ 550e F Sport. Real-world range in Australian conditions is typically 370 to 400 km.
How fast can the Lexus RZ charge?
DC fast charging at 150 kW takes approximately 28 to 30 minutes from 10 to 80 per cent. AC charging at 22 kW takes around 3.5 hours for a full charge.
How does the Lexus RZ compare to the Lexus NX?
The NX is available in petrol, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. The RZ is fully electric. They're similar in size, but the RZ sits on a dedicated EV platform, which gives it a lower centre of gravity and a distinct driving character. The NX offers more powertrain flexibility, while the RZ is ideal for buyers committed to going fully electric.
Is the Lexus RZ worth buying?
At the updated 2026 pricing, the RZ is a compelling offering in the premium EV segment. With prices starting at $94,131, up to 460 km of range, 280 kW of power, and the full Lexus ownership experience, it delivers strong value alongside established luxury EV competitors.
Experience The Lexus RZ At Lexus Of Parramatta
The 2026 Lexus RZ arrives in showrooms in May. Lexus of Parramatta has the full RZ range available to explore, including the new F Sport with its steer-by-wire yoke. Whether you're making the switch to electric for the first time or upgrading from another EV, the team can walk you through charging options, pricing, and availability. Book a test drive or visit the showroom to experience the new RZ for yourself.
*Recommended drive away price (RDP) shown is based on a vehicle with selected optional features or metallic/premium paint, garaged at the postcode entered, and includes 12 months registration, 12 months compulsory third party insurance (CTP), maximum dealer delivery charge and stamp duty. Please note actual drive away price may differ based on your delivery location, applicable statutory charges/taxes, and CTP requirements etc., in your state/territory. Lexus Australia reserves the right to vary or discontinue the current interior and exterior colours, trims and colour/trim/model combinations. Colours and trims displayed are a guide only and may vary from actual colours due to display process. Speak to your Lexus dealer to confirm when ordering your vehicle. Pricing correct at time of publication June 26