402-HP Lexus RZ Sport Concept Hints At High-Performance RZ F Model

Jan. 24, 2023 10:27 AM ET byJarryd Neves Tuning /4 Comments

It may be a concept for now, but it would make a great electric performance crossover.

Lexus has provided more details about theLexus RZSport Concept, detailing a 402-horsepower powertrain that we're hopeful will make production. This isn't the first time we've seen thestriking design study previewed earlier this yearahead of the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, but it is the first time we've been given technical details.

Thanks to a pair of 150 kW motors mounted on the front and rear axles, respectively, the Sport Concept produces a combined output of 402 hp.

The standard RZ 450e also employs a 150 kW motor on the front axle but has to make do with a lesser 80 kW example at the rear, generating a combined 308 hp. But with rivals like the Tesla Model Y Performance and Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, Lexus would be wise to enter the high-performance electric crossover sphere.

The Sport concept and its 402-hp setup have shown us it's possible for Lexus to create such a thing. There's a strong possibility we could be looking at the first signs of an electrified Lexus F crossover, but that may still be some way off. After all, Lexus representatives have said LexusF models will probably adopt hybrid technologybefore going fully electric.

Then again, the incredible LFA's successor - officiallyknown as the Electrified Sport concept- will debut as a battery-powered supercar with a manual transmission of sorts, possibly called the LFR.

Another possibility is that the more powerful RZ could debut as an RZ 500e. This would bolster the range and give buyers a choice of a high-powered model, the existing RZ 450e, and theforthcoming RZ 300e。

The RZ Sport concept, pictured above, also features lowered suspension and wider tires that should improve handling. While those improvements will go a long way in creating a sportier derivative, we're guessing Lexus would tone down the styling considerably. It looks great, but Lexus vehicles tend to be bought by conservative types who gravitate towards demure, understated design.

Hopefully, some of the details - like the four bucket seats - remain, but should Lexus see fit to create a high-performance RZ, we're guessing the body kit will be toned down somewhat.

Lexus is rumored to have culled development of据传LS F超级轿车和低频SUV。两人都将首次与一个强大的V8,but it's possible both were killed off in favor of pursuing electric performance.

The hotted-up RZ isn't the only Lexus to have received special attention for the Tokyo Auto Salon. The RX Outdoor Concept is based on the RX 450h+ and has been designed as a plug-in hybrid vehicle for adventurers. The rugged crossover features a rooftop tent, among other things, that will contribute to a luxurious camping experience.

Thanks to BF Goodrich KO2 all-terrain rubber and an aluminum skid plate, the RX Outdoor Concept is able to traverse obstacles that would leave a regular RX in a tight spot. Those that take off-roading seriously will be drawn to the GX Outdoor Concept, based on the already capable GX 460.

Fitted with Toyo Open Country mud-terrain tires and an electrical winch, the concept GX is a dream for avid off-road enthusiasts. A roof-mounted tent and a neatly integrated equipment storage unit in the cargo area round everything off nicely.

402-HP Lexus RZ Sport Concept Hints At High-Performance RZ F Model

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402-HP Lexus RZ Sport Concept Hints At High-Performance RZ F Model

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