Lexus shows more of upcoming RZ 450e

Lexus has shown more of its upcoming RZ 450e, its first fully-electric vehicle to join the Japanese maker's line-up.

We will get to see the model's full unveil soon, with the SUV EV readying to compete against the likes of the Tesla Model 3 – Australia's best-selling electric car.

Lexus's own electric car is based on the same e-TNGA platform underneath Toyota's new bZ4X (and also the Subaru Solterra), penned with a differing design outside and presumably inside, although no official images have been released of the cabin, yet.

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The e-TNGA platform underneath uses the same 71.4kWh lithium-ion battery connected to two electric motors for all-wheel drive.

No specific output has been detailed, but the Toyota bZ4X produces 150kW and 336Nm, with the Lexus expected to produce more power in certain variants.

The driving range for the Toyota is 450 kilometres, which could be slightly less in the Lexus if it is equipped with sumptuous creature comforts and more electrics inside.

Lexus calls the RZ's all-wheel-drive system DIRECT4, which is described as having the ability to go “from front-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive and everything in between, in the blink of an eye.” There will also be fly-by-wire steering which disconnects the steering wheel from the steering rack completely and offers the ability for variable ratios.

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For now, we can see on the outside that the styling is similar in shape to the bZ4X, but details change, such as the more angular front end with horizontal slated grille, and a neat spoiler over the rear hatch. Much of the Toyota's cheaper plastic cladding has also been removed or minimised for a sleek look.

While the interior has not been shown in full, no doubt more teaser images will come soon. For now, there are some glimpses from a testing video that show a similar layout to the BZ4x, but with Lexus details.

No further details have been given, but the new Lexus RZ is expected to launch in Australia during 2023 with a price above the Toyota bZ4X, which has also been confirmed locally.