Lexus launches 425 hp electric SUV with innovative system that simulates manual gear shifting

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Lexus RZ Foto: Lexus RZ - Foto: Divulgação

The global automotive market begins the 2026 cycle with a new milestone in the high-performance sports utility vehicle segment. The luxury division of Toyota has confirmed the arrival of a radically improved version of its electric line, developed to cater to purists who seek the union between energy efficiency and the visceral emotion of the tracks. The public’s response was immediate, with order volumes already exceeding the automaker’s initial expectations for the first quarter, generating virtual waiting lines and moving dealerships even before massive physical distribution.

This strategic launch is not limited to aesthetic updates; This is a deep re-engineering based on the RZ550e model. The engineers’ central objective was to maintain the connection between man and machine, a constant challenge in the era of total electrification. Para Therefore, significant structural modifications were made to the chassis, allowing the vehicle to support a considerable increase in torque and power, ensuring a driving experience that prioritizes precision and sensory feedback.

Mechanical engineering and raw power

At the heart of this new SUV is a robust electrical system capable of delivering 313 kW, which is equivalent to approximately 425 horsepower. Esta brute force allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds, figures that place it in direct competition with the main combustion sports cars on the current market. This energy is managed by the DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system, which has been recalibrated to offer more agile responses and guarantee the necessary stability at high speeds.

To deal with the increase in performance, the engineering team implemented 20-inch front brakes, essential to guarantee safe braking in extreme situations. Além In addition, the suspension received a specific adjustment, becoming more rigid and communicative, fundamental characteristics for drivers looking for a more sporty feel on winding roads or closed circuits.

Technological innovations in driving

One of the great highlights of the model is the incorporation of the “steer-by-wire” steering system, which eliminates the physical mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels, using electrical signals for control. Essa technology allowed the installation of a stick-style steering wheel, which improves visibility of the instrument panel and offers a more ergonomic grip for quick maneuvers, redefining the driver’s interaction with the cabin.

Another new feature that has attracted the attention of enthusiasts is the driving mode that simulates a manual transmission. Batizado from “Interactive Manual Drive”, the system recreates the sensation of shifting gears, allowing the driver to feel the interaction typical of traditional sports cars, a rare feature in electric vehicles that generally operate with direct transmission.

Aerodynamic design and exclusive finish

The vehicle’s aesthetics have been enhanced with the extensive use of carbon fiber in key components such as the hood and rear wing, aimed at reducing weight and improving airflow. The aggressive design is not just visual, but functional, generating greater “downforce” to keep the car glued to the ground in high-speed curves.

The automaker presented the exclusive color “HAKUGIN”, a silver tone with a matte finish that highlights the muscular lines of the body and differentiates this version from other configurations in the line. 21-inch forged aluminum Rodas complete the look, giving the SUV an athletic and imposing stance.

Main technical highlights

To consolidate this model’s position at the top of the luxury tram food chain, the technical sheet presents numbers and characteristics that impress even the most skeptical. Abaixo are the points that define the exclusivity of this version:

– Potência total of 425 horsepower (313 kW); – Aceleração from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds; – Sistema DIRECT4 all-wheel drive with sports calibration; – Direção variable electronics and manual transmission simulation mode; – Acabamentos exteriors in carbon fiber and exclusive HAKUGIN paintwork.

Market and distribution perspectives

The sales strategy adopted priority exclusivity, with a lottery system for the acquisition of the first units in Japão, a practice that further increased interest in the model. The expectation is that production will be adjusted throughout the year to serve international markets, where demand for high-performance electric SUVs continues to rise.

With this launch, the manufacturer reaffirms its commitment to carbon neutrality without giving up the pleasure of driving. The model serves as a laboratory for future technologies that will be implemented across the brand’s entire range of vehicles in the coming years, solidifying its dominance strategy in the luxury electric vehicle niche.

Luís Henrique Costa é jornalista formado pela FMU, editor-chefe e fundador do Mix Vale, portal de notícias em atividade desde 2013. Responde pela direção editorial do veículo, que cobre Brasil e mundo em economia, benefícios sociais, esportes, tecnologia, ciência e entretenimento. Atua na área há mais de 15 anos e lidera uma equipe de cerca de 15 colaboradores.

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