ROI open in Malaysia, Lexus RZ launched in Thailand; price equals to RM 501k

Here's the Lexus RZ, the luxury marque's first bespoke all-electric model. Thailand is the second ASEAN country to launch it (after Singapore) at the 44th Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS 2023).

Yes, the UX 300e is electric as well, but the RZ is the brand's first dedicated EV, sitting on the same e-TNGA platform that underpins the Toyota bZ4X (Specs | News)/Subaru Solterra. The goals are clear: go after the jugular of equivalent Mercedeses and BMWs.

Also read: First look at the Malaysian-spec Toyota bZ4X EV, launching in Malaysia soon

In that way, the RZ makes for a compelling case. The cabin is plush as can be, with standard dual-zone air-conditioning, 8-way powered front seats that are also heated and ventilated, as well as a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay.

There's also a 10-speaker Lexus Premium Audio sound system, standard head-up display, standard rear-view camera, as well as advanced driver aids.

Also read: 7 EV SUVs launching in Malaysia in 2023: Toyota bZ4X, Smart #1, VW ID.4, and more

All-speed adaptive cruise control, Lexus Teammate Advanced Park (assisted parking), Pre-Collision System (autonomous emergency braking), Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Change Assist with blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert are all standard fare.

Since Thailand has two variants, it's notable that they both share very similar interior specifications as above. The main differentiators are multi-colour ambient lighting for the higher-end Premium (single colour on the Luxury), and Ultrasuede upholstery on the Premium...which affords cloud-like comfort.

Also read: This 313 PS AWD Lexus RZ is an electric SUV Tesla fans say you must not buy, also points to 2023 Lexus RX

The variance is bigger on the outside. In this photos are the RZ 450e Premium, so it has the 20-inch chrome wheels, LED headlamps with adaptive high beam, signature daytime running lights (DRLs), as well as acoustic glass on the sides and rear.

Performance is uncompromisingly similar though. It has the DIRECT4 all-wheel drive setup, so there's one electric motor (204 PS/265 Nm) on the front axle, and another one (109 PS/170 Nm) at the back, for a total system output of 313 PS and 435 Nm.

Also read: Weird but true: ICE cars in EU are losing sales to EVs but Toyota is posting record high sales - what's happening?

Underneath it all is a lithium-ion (Li-Ion) battery with 71.4 kWh of capacity, rated at 402 km of range following the WLTP standard. It supports AC charging at 11 kW max, with a full charge taking 6.5 hours, while 150 kW DC fast charging (Type 2) can bring the battery from 0-80% in just half an hour.

As above, in Thailand the RZ is offered in the THB 3.87 million (~RM 501k) Luxury, or the range-topping Premium that starts from THB 4.19 million (~RM 543k). Keep an eye out for its Malaysian introduction though; registration of interest (ROI) has been open for quite some time now...

Also read: EV fans can expect the Lexus RZ to launch in Malaysia in 2023 – registration of interest opens