Test driving the LEXUS RZ500e PREMIUM AWD electric car with Steer-by-Wire steering provides enjoyable cornering, a highly engaging driving experience, and easier vehicle control.
Thairath Online had the opportunity to test drive an electric vehicle from LEXUS, following an earlier test of the TOYOTA bZ4X. We tried the LEXUS RZ500e PREMIUM AWD, notable for its unique Steer-by-Wire steering system compared to other models in the RZ family.
Previously, we experienced Steer-by-Wire steering in a Tesla, mostly on test tracks. This time, driving the LEXUS RZ500e PREMIUM AWD on public roads for the first time reminded us of playing Forza with a simulator steering wheel—except here, we were driving on actual roads, not a test track.
After testing the Steer-by-Wire steering on the LEXUS RZ500e PREMIUM AWD, we found it had an exceptionally short ratio, with only 200 degrees of steering angle. Driving continuously, it became clear that vehicle control was easier and the steering felt sharper, especially when turning, where slight movements were sufficient and confidence increased.
The Lexus RZ500e features a 76.96 kWh Li-ion NMC battery supporting AC charging at 22 kW and DC charging at 150 kW. It has dual motors producing a combined 380 horsepower and updated software. The claimed NEDC range is 530 kilometers. In real-world tests, the actual driving range was around 400-450 kilometers. Acceleration from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour took about 5 seconds.
The performance of the LEXUS RZ500e Premium AWD is designed with distinct characteristics: smooth acceleration without sudden surges. Its DIRECT4 system works intelligently, providing excellent driving stability, balanced power distribution, and confident cornering. It achieves sharper and deeper turns than the DIRECT4 in the RX500h F Performance by a slight margin.
Additionally, the Lexus RZ 500e uses the e-TNGA platform, which is the core of TOYOTA and LEXUS electric vehicles including the bZ4X and RZ. The battery protection panel is robustly designed with over 86 bolts securing a nearly 2-millimeter-thick impact plate. The suspension is fully independent on all four wheels.
It also employs Frequency Reactive Dampers (FRD2) that absorb low-frequency vibrations, adjusting stiffness based on road conditions and driving style through mechanical principles, ensuring smooth damping. From our tests, the vehicle body rigidity is strong, giving a driving experience comparable to a sports coupe.
- The new Lexus RZ is designed and developed specifically as an electric vehicle, featuring a low center of gravity and sleek aerodynamic styling that presents a futuristic and distinctive exterior.
- The E-TNGA platform is developed exclusively for electric vehicles. This dedicated platform ensures the car is lightweight yet highly rigid, improving fundamental vehicle performance. Weight distribution is optimized by strategically placing the battery and motors to enhance stability.
- ASC, the Automatic Sound Control system, adjusts the sound inside the Lexus RZ according to vehicle speed, providing a natural auditory experience that complements performance and speed, including a finely tuned powertrain sound for pleasant driving.
- The TAZUNA cockpit-style cabin features a front console designed to surround the driver, allowing intuitive and natural reach to all controls.
- The panoramic glass roof includes an intelligent light-dimming function, creating an airy cabin atmosphere. It is coated with Low-e material to block heat and 99% of UV rays, enhancing comfort even under direct sunlight, eliminating the need for sunshades.
- The Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound system in the new Lexus RZ includes 13 high-quality speakers specifically designed and tuned for this model, delivering high-resolution audio and a concert-like listening experience throughout the cabin.
• Lexus RZ 350e Grand Luxury is priced at 2,990,000 baht.
• Lexus RZ 500e Premium AWD is priced at 3,490,000 baht.
• Lexus RZ 500e Premium AWD (Steer-by-Wire) is priced at 3,790,000 baht.
Additionally, Lexus offers a warranty covering battery degradation below 70% for 8 years or 160,000 kilometers, whichever comes first, along with benefits from the LEXUS ELITE CLUB.
Photo credits.Sinassada