The 2025 Lexus RZ: A More Affordable Luxury Electric Crossover
Lexus is making waves in the electric vehicle market with the updated 2025 Lexus RZ electric crossover, offering significantly reduced starting prices and improved options. This pricing strategy aligns with Lexus’s ambition to attract a broader range of buyers while still delivering the luxury and performance the brand is known for. Let’s explore what makes the 2025 Lexus RZ an exciting contender in the EV segment.
Major Price Cuts for 2025 Models
The standout news for the 2025 Lexus RZ is its price drop—thanks to the introduction of a new entry-level grade. The new starting price for the single-motor RZ 300e is $43,975 (including a $1,175 destination fee), marking a dramatic $11,200 reduction compared to the 2024 entry-level Premium model.
For those seeking more luxurious options, the RZ 300e Premium is priced at $48,175 for models with 18-inch wheels and $49,415 with 20-inch wheels. At the high end, the Luxury trim of the RZ 300e costs $53,905.
The dual-motor RZ 450e, featuring all-wheel drive, also sees a comparable price reduction, now starting at $48,675. Premium trims for this model range from $52,875 (18-inch wheels) to $54,115 (20-inch wheels), while the top-tier Luxury grade starts at $58,605.
| Model | Trim Level | Price (18-inch wheels) | Price (20-inch wheels) |
|---|---|---|---|
| RZ 300e | Base | $43,975 | N/A |
| RZ 300e | Premium | $48,175 | $49,415 |
| RZ 300e | Luxury | $53,905 | N/A |
| RZ 450e | Base | $48,675 | N/A |
| RZ 450e | Premium | $52,875 | $54,115 |
| RZ 450e | Luxury | $58,605 | N/A |
Powertrain and Performance
The 2025 RZ continues to offer both single-motor and dual-motor configurations, catering to a wide spectrum of driving preferences.
- RZ 300e:
- Single-motor, front-wheel-drive setup.
- Delivers 201 horsepower for smooth urban and highway cruising.
- Equipped with a 72.8-kWh CATL battery pack.
- RZ 450e:
- Dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system.
- Generates 308 horsepower, capable of a 0-60 mph sprint in 5.0 seconds, as estimated by Lexus.
- Features a 71.4-kWh battery pack supplied by Prime Planet Energy, a joint venture between Panasonic and Toyota.
Range and Efficiency
While the RZ lineup offers respectable range figures, it is clear that Lexus has prioritized luxury features and performance over maximizing range.
- RZ 300e:
- EPA-estimated range: 266 miles with 18-inch wheels.
- Drops to 224 miles with 20-inch wheels.
- RZ 450e:
- EPA-estimated range: 220 miles with 18-inch wheels.
- Reduced to 196 miles with 20-inch wheels.
These range figures may trail some competitors in the EV market, but Lexus aims to balance driving comfort, style, and technology instead of focusing solely on long-range capabilities.
Luxury Meets Technology
Lexus has maintained its emphasis on luxury and high-end features in the RZ lineup. Despite the lower entry price, the vehicles include premium materials, cutting-edge infotainment systems, and a host of advanced driver-assistance features.
This focus ensures that the 2025 Lexus RZ delivers a true Lexus experience, even at its more affordable price point. Buyers can expect:
- A spacious and tech-savvy cabin.
- State-of-the-art safety features, including Lexus Safety System+ 3.0.
- Optional 20-inch wheels for enhanced aesthetics and road presence.
Lexus’s EV Roadmap
The RZ is currently the only all-electric Lexus model sold in the U.S., but the automaker has ambitious plans for its EV future. Lexus is preparing to launch a larger electric crossover in 2026, likely inspired by the LF-ZL concept unveiled last year. This move aligns with Lexus’s broader goal to transition into an all-electric brand by 2030.
While Lexus has offered the UX 300e crossover in Europe since 2020, the RZ marks its first serious foray into the U.S. electric vehicle market. The 2025 updates position the RZ as a more competitive option, setting the stage for future electric innovations.
How It Stacks Up Against Competitors
Lexus’s decision to lower the RZ’s starting price puts it in direct competition with other luxury EV crossovers, such as the Tesla Model Y, Audi Q4 e-tron, and BMW iX3.
| Feature | 2025 Lexus RZ | Tesla Model Y | Audi Q4 e-tron |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $43,975 (Base RZ 300e) | $47,740 | $49,800 |
| Horsepower | 201 hp (300e) / 308 hp (450e) | 384 hp | 295 hp |
| EPA Range (Max) | 266 miles | 330 miles | 265 miles |
| AWD Availability | Yes (RZ 450e) | Yes | Yes |
| Focus | Luxury & Comfort | Performance & Range | Balance of Features |
The RZ’s lower price and luxurious interior make it an appealing choice for buyers prioritizing comfort over performance or range.
Why the 2025 Lexus RZ Stands Out
The 2025 Lexus RZ showcases the brand’s ability to adapt to the growing demand for electric vehicles while staying true to its identity. Here’s why it’s turning heads:
- Affordability: A significant price drop makes the RZ more accessible without compromising quality.
- Luxury Focus: Lexus prioritizes premium materials, advanced tech, and a smooth ride over raw performance or range.
- Future-Ready: The RZ sets the stage for Lexus’s transition to a fully electric lineup by 2030.
The 2025 Lexus RZ electric crossover strikes a compelling balance between affordability, luxury, and performance. With its new entry-level grade, the RZ becomes a more accessible option for drivers seeking a premium electric SUV experience without breaking the bank.
While its range figures may not set industry records, the RZ’s luxurious design, cutting-edge features, and strong performance ensure it stands out in a crowded EV market. Lexus’s bold price cuts signal a commitment to staying competitive, paving the way for an exciting future in electric mobility.
For those seeking a high-end electric SUV that delivers on comfort and sophistication, the 2025 Lexus RZ is well worth considering.
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