As Lexus continues to expand its electrified lineup, the RZ represents a step forward for the brand’s all-electric vehicles as it’s been thoroughly enhanced for the 2026 model year.

First introduced in 2023, the RZ made a bold statement as Lexus’ first dedicated, globally available, battery-electric vehicle (BEV).

Now, the 2026 Lexus RZ builds on that foundation with a new, extended lineup and notable upgrades in style, performance, charging capability and driving dynamics—all while staying true to Lexus’ signature blend of luxury and innovation.

Here are five things to know about the 2026 Lexus RZ.

Sportier Drive With New Mode 

To help provide an exhilarating driving experience, the 2026 Lexus RZ debuts a new addition to the lineup – the RZ 550e F SPORT AWD. With a maximum output of 408 total system horsepower, this new addition to the RZ lineup makes it the most powerful RZ model. In addition, the suspension has been specially tuned with adjustments to the damper and spring settings to provide an unbelievable ride.

Lexus also introduces the M Mode on the 2026 RZ 550e F SPORT AWD, an electronic system that offers virtual manual gear shifting via paddle shifters. The M Mode allows customers to control power output with paddle shifters as if using a manual transmission.

The system features a virtual eight-speed gear setup where drivetrain output is determined by combining the virtual power source torque, calculated based on throttle input and vehicle speed, with the gear ratio selected via the paddle shifters.

What’s more, to enhance the experience, Lexus has simulated engine and exhaust sounds, and a shift guide meter in the instrument display, to allow drivers to intuitively track gear changes in real time.

Driving Range and Charging Stations

The 2026 RZ adopts the North American Charging System (NACS) charging port (SAE J3400) on the passenger’s side of the vehicle, enabling access to thousands of high-speed charging stations nationwide. It also has Level One and Level Two AC charging with a higher-capacity 11-kW on-board AC charger (up from 7-kW capacity on the prior model year).

Under ideal conditions using DC fast charging—though charging times  may vary based on weather and other factors—the 2026 Lexus RZ can charge from 10% to 80% battery capacity in around 30 minutes. The vehicle also comes with an improved manufacturer-estimated driving range, with the RZ 350e FWD having a manufacturer-estimated 302 miles range rating and the RZ 450e AWD having a manufacturer-estimated 261 miles range rating when equipped with 18-inch tires. The new RZ 550e F SPORT AWD, when equipped with 20-inch tires, has a manufacturer-estimated range of 228 miles.

This means drivers can spend less time plugging in and more time enjoying the drive.

Dynamic Performance

Another impactful feature for the 2026 RZ is its increased horsepower, making it a more capable and versatile BEV for a wider range of customers.

The RZ lineup will have three different power options: 224 total system horsepower (RZ 350e FWD), 313 total system horsepower (RZ 450e AWD), and 408 total system horsepower (RZ 550e F SPORT AWD).

This increase in power provides customers with quicker acceleration and improved responsiveness, all while maintaining the quiet, refined drive that is synonymous with Lexus.

Amplified Power

At the core of the 2026 Lexus RZ’s transformation is a newly developed powertrain that improves both efficiency and driving engagement.

Building on Lexus’s experience with electrification, the updated powertrain system features a revised version of DIRECT4, an all-wheel drive system. First introduced with the 2023 Lexus RX, it has been further refined for the 2026 RZ AWD models to enhance drive force, traction and posture control, including pitch and dive.

The revised power distribution improves traction performance and driving stability, using a front-to-rear drive force ratio between 60:40 and 0:100 during starting and straight-line acceleration to reduce pitch and deliver a more direct response.

During cornering, the system adjusts the ratio between 80:20 and 0:100 based on factors like vehicle speed and steering angle. More power is sent to the front wheels during turn-in for smooth, precise cornering, while torque is distributed according to each wheel’s contact load during corner exit for balanced acceleration and stability.

In Range mode, the system maintains a consistent 50:50 front-to-rear balance to help maximize efficiency.

Spinning the Color Wheel

For model year 2026, the Lexus RZ F SPORT is turning heads with an exclusive new shade called Wind—a sleek, solid light gray with a hint of metallic that plays perfectly against the model’s bold black accents.

It’s a modern, refined look with just the right amount of edge. And if customers are seeking options, they’re in luck: the full RZ lineup offers seven striking monotone colors and four stylish bi-tone colors, giving them plenty of ways to make a statement on the road.