Upgraded 2025 Lexus RZ Gains Yoke Steering & Simulated Gears

The newly updated Lexus RZ may look familiar, but this EV SUV carries some notable changes under the skin.

Besides the facelifted bZ4X and the new C-HR+, Toyota has also given the Lexus RZ a 2025 model year (2025 MY) update. While the Lexus-badged EV crossover looks similar on the exterior, it does carry some significant upgrades under the skin, including a new 402 HP-rated RZ 550e F Sport variant, at least in Europe.

2025 MY Lexus RZ 550e F Sport

More on the new RZ 550e F Sport, this new range-topping variant gets the peppiest dual-motor AWD setup of the bunch, with the 402 HP-rated unit enabling a rapid 0-100 KM/H sprint time of only 4.4 seconds. Using the same 77-kWh battery pack as the rest of the lineup, the RZ 550e F Sport gets the least range of only 450 KM, Lexus claims.

Replacing the RZ 450e in Europe is the new RZ 500e variant, which uses a less peppy dual-motor AWD setup rated at 375 HP. With that being said, the motor setup is enough for a respectable century sprint time of 4.6 seconds, while its maximum range is capped at 500 KM.

If you’re willing to trade the face-ripping acceleration performance for better EV range, perhaps the entry-level RZ 350e variant is the best pick for you, as its 224-HP single-motor setup allows for an estimated driving range of 575 KM.

New variants aside, perhaps the more significant upgrade given to the 2025 MY RZ is the new steer-by-wire system, featuring a yoke-style steering wheel. With no physical connection between the yoke and the front axle, the new steering system comes with variable steering ratios, allowing drivers to play around with the steering feel.

Taking inspiration from its Korean rival, Lexus has also introduced a synthetic shifting system into the new RZ. Known as the Interactive Manual Drive, this system is paired with simulated engine sounds, where it promises to deliver “a sportier, more responsive driving feel, offering greater engagement and driving pleasure.”

The upgraded 2025 MY Lexus RZ is scheduled to hit the European market later in fall this year, with pricing details set to be revealed in the near future. As of now, there’s no news on when the upgraded RZ will be heading to other international markets like Japan and Asia-Pacific, so Lexus fans may have to wait for a while.