The Lexus RZ 450e is based on the same electric car underpinnings as the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra. Therefore, when it comes to electric tow cars, heck, just electric cars in general, its not a great start. Add on top of that the increased price point of the RZ 450e over its Toyota/Subaru siblings, this Lexus is not a recommended electric tow car. A 750kg towing capacity and a real-world range of under 200 miles, hence closer to 100 miles when towing.
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Key Lexus RZ 450e Specs
- Official Towing Capacity – 750 kg
- Max Nose Weight – Unknown
- Availability – Now
- Price – Starting £64,500
- Range (EV Database) – 195 miles
- Estimated Towing Range (50%) – 98 miles
- Efficiency – 328 wh/mi
- Maximum DC Charge Rate – 147kW
- Rapid Charge 10% to 80% – 28 min
- Check Used Lexus RX 450e Specs
Lexus RZ 450e HP & Torque
- AWD: 308 HP and 321 lb-ft of torque
Lexus RZ 450e Towing Capabilties
There is currently just a single version of the Lexus RZ, the 450e with AWD and 308 HP, whereas its Toyota bZ4X sibling comes in a couple of different FWD and AWD options.
Where the Lexus is superior to the Toyota is in power output. The AWD bZ4X only produces 215 HP. Therefore, the additional power of the RZ 450e will be useful in a vehicle that weighs just under 2,300 kg unladen.
However, it appears that the additional power boost has reduced the efficiency and real-world range of the Lexus even below that of the Toyota bZ4X, which wasn’t great in the first place compared to the wider market.
With a real-world range of just under 200 miles for a price over $64,000 for a car launched in 2023 is just not competitive with the current electric car market at all.
Add on top of that the very limited towing capacity of 750kg, there are numerous other options on the market that provide better capabilities and at a notably lower price point.
Lexus RZ 450e Review
Below is a video review of the Lexus RZ 450e by Matt Watson over at CarWow. Matt believes the RZ 450e is very comfortable and quiet, but its range/efficiency is clearly going to be a concern for owners.
My Thoughts On The Lexus RZ 450e
If you only ever drive short distances and you wanted a quiet/comfortable electric car, I’m sure there are existing Lexus owners that the RZ 450e would appeal to.
However, for everybody else, and especially to those of us who tow trailers/caravans etc, no, the Lexus RZ 450e is not a practical vehicle due its poor towing capacity and range.
There is not really much more to say than that really…