Now this is very cool. Lexus has put together an awesome aftermarket-style concept based on its new RZ fully electric SUV for Monterey Car Week, called the RZ Sport Concept. And just, wow. What a beast.
The carbon-fibre-clad crossover looks like it features a 1000hp JUN powertrain. However, it is a fully electric vehicle featuring a 150kW motor at the front and rear axle. Instead of outright horsepower, the show car provides some insight into the cosmetic tuning potential of the new SUV.
It was first unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon earlier this year and now it has just made its US debut at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering in Pebble Beach, California. It features a pure clear white exterior known as Hakugin, paired with blue highlights along the roofline, with a black contrast roof.
You may have noticed the intense aero package as well, including dual rear wings, chunky side skirts and rear diffuser, bulging wheel arches, and an aggressive front apron and splitter, with carbon fibre inserts. Also at the front, the bonnet features deep, motorsport-derived extraction vents, made from carbon.
The complete package was put together with the help of racing driver Masahiro Sasaki, who was also involved in the initial development of the RZ. And so the concept had to offer enhanced handling to match the go-fast looks.
Thanks to a set of custom springs the ride height is lowered by 35mm over the standard RZ, supported by a set of 21-inch wheels wrapped in fat 295/35 tyres. There’s also serious bucket seats inside to assist with lateral support for the passengers.
The Lexus RZ 450e is on sale in Australia featuring a 71.4kWh battery that supplies power to twin 150kW electric motors. All up, the system generates up to 230kW and 435Nm, enabling the 0-100km/h dash in a claimed 5.3 seconds (actually a bit quicker – our review and performance test is coming very soon).
With a full battery the RZ offers an official range of 470km, and it can take in 11kW charging from an AC system or up to 150kW using DC power. Three main variants are on sale, with prices starting from the following (excluding on-road costs):
2023 Lexus RZ 450e Luxury: $123,000
2023 Lexus RZ 450e Sports Luxury: $135,000
2023 Lexus RZ 450e Sports Luxury with two-tone finish: $139,200
