Lexus has finally put a clear price tag on the updated 2026 RZ electric SUV—and the new numbers reflect more than just a facelift. Let me walk you through what’s new, what it offers, and how the pricing stacks up.
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What is the 2026 Lexus RZ?
The RZ is Lexus’ fully electric SUV, aimed at marrying the luxury, comfort, and refinement expected of the brand with better EV performance. For the 2026 model year, Lexus has dialed things up in several key areas: battery, power output, driving range, and new trim options.
Major updates & highlights
Bigger battery and better range
The 2026 RZ uses a larger 77-kWh battery pack across all models, up from about 71–73 kWh in prior versions.
This upgrade allows for stronger range estimates: the base (front-wheel drive) RZ 350e is now rated for up to ~302 miles (on 18-inch wheels) , and the RZ 450e AWD variant is projected to reach roughly ~266 miles under ideal conditions.
More power options / trims
Lexus now offers three main powertrain variants:
1. RZ 350e (FWD, single motor): ~221 hp
2. RZ 450e (AWD, dual motor): ~308 hp
3. RZ 550e F Sport (AWD performance model): ~402 hp
The 550e F Sport is the new performance-focused trim, with sport-tuned suspension and more aggressive character.
Charging & other tech upgrades
The onboard AC charger is now 11 kW, which helps speed up Level 2 charging.
Lexus has switched the port standard from CCS to NACS (the Tesla-style connector) for U.S. models, improving compatibility with Tesla Superchargers (with some caveats)
The car offers “preconditioning” of the battery so that when approaching a fast charger, it can warm (or cool) the battery to an optimal state, reducing charging time.
For the 550e F Sport, Lexus is introducing “Interactive Manual Drive,” which simulates an 8-speed shift experience using paddles and synthesized shift sensations, giving a more dynamic “gear-change” feel in an EV.
The 2026 RZ also continues to be assembled in Japan (Motomachi plant).
Performance & dynamics
Acceleration estimates vary depending on trim:
The 550e F Sport is rumored to sprint 0–60 mph in around 4.1 seconds
The 450e AWD is estimated at ~4.9 seconds 0–60 mph
The base 350e is the slower one, more for daily commuting than performance runs.
Some reviewers say that although Lexus has addressed its previous deficits in range and charging, the new RZ is still not the most aggressive or sporty in its class—its strength is in comfort and the Lexus brand experience.
Interior & space notes
Design-wise, the RZ maintains a sleek, slightly sloping roofline, which can limit headroom or cargo height in the back.
Some reviewers mention the driver display resolution could use improvement.
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Price: What Lexus Actually Set
Until recently, pricing for the 2026 RZ had not been officially disclosed, and several outlets projected a wide range.
Now Lexus (and automakers) have made clearer pricing announcements.
Here’s a breakdown of the U.S. (MSRP-style) pricing:
Trim / Variant Starting Price*
RZ 350e (base FWD) $47,295
RZ 350e Premium ~$49,495
RZ 450e (AWD) $50,795
RZ 450e Premium ~$52,995
RZ 450e Luxury $58,295
RZ 550e F Sport $58,295 (same as 450e Luxury in some configurations)
> * All prices include the $1,295 destination charge.
In short: the base model is up about $3,200 from the outgoing 2025 RZ 300e, reflecting the upgrades.
In many media previews, the 2026 RZ is estimated to span a base-to-top range of $46,000 to $67,000 depending on trim and options.
What to Watch Out For & Final Thoughts
The range figures are promising, especially for the base trim breaking past 300 miles, but EV real-world performance (especially in heat, fast charging, or rugged roads) may differ.
The 550e F Sport, while the “top dog,” gives up some range for performance—its estimated range is lower under heavier use.
The adoption of NACS charging is a smart move for U.S. customers, but you’ll want to check how Lexus handles adapter fees or interoperability with Tesla infrastructure.
Some styling and spatial compromises remain (sloping roof, limited cargo flexibility) that may make rivals more appealing to buyers prioritizing utility.
The “Interactive Manual Drive” system is interesting: it’s mostly for driving feel and novelty rather than real gear shifts—some drivers may like it, others may see it as gimmicky.
Overall, the 2026 Lexus RZ looks like a meaningful step forward. It’s not a revolution in EV space, but it’s a much stronger contender than prior generations. The upgrades in battery, power, and tech help it move from “an okay electric SUV from a luxury brand” to “a serious option”—especially if you favor refinement and brand experience. And now that the pricing is out, you can better judge whether it fits your budget (or whether you’d wait or consider alternatives).
