It's a big week for Lexus as the brand launches the first-ever ell-electric ES. It will be the brand's second all-electric behind the RZ SUV, which just happens to be my review for you this week. It's the new powerhouse of the refreshed for 2026 lineup too - the first-ever 2026 RZ 550e F Sport AWD. Not only did it have me at F Sport, but the lineup gains some important power, capability and style updates that it needed in the competitive EV market.
The RZ reminds one of the RX but with Lexus' electrified design treatment. Its sleek shape and grille shutter are designed to improve aerodynamic efficiency.
The F Sport package looks fantastic on the RZ. The F Sport is available in an exclusive new Wind color that looks amazing in contrast to 20-inch black alloys with aero covers. The areo covers by the way help smooth airflow. Optional, exclusive to the F Sport, Blue Brake Calipers look great too.
Other features include a black F SPORT emblem, rear spoiler, front bumper moldings, and front grille. A blade strip taillight and spelled-out LEXUS logo create a distinctive look in the back - and the F Sport black rear spoiler and rear bumper give off sporty vibes.
The RZ 550e F Sport AWD is the now the most powerful RZ in the lineup and as such its higher-output dual-motor electric powertrain doesn't promise what it can't deliver. We're talking a Lexus-cited 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds thanks to an outstanding 402 horsepower. The RZ 450e AWD delivers 308 for comparison.
The 2026 RZ also has a revised BEV system. There is a new eAxle and a new lithium-ion battery - the result being improved motor output, increased battery capacity and reduced charging times.
Lexus never fails to impress with its interiors - the build, materials and ambiance is all upscale. The cabin design is user-friendly with in my mind one exception - the start button is a bit of a reach to the upper right of the steering wheel.
My test vehicle's dark two-toned interior features F Sport Ultrasuede-trimmed front seats with blue contrast stitching.
In a Lexus-first, laser-etched Ultrasuede is integrated into the door panels in a sophisticated pattern. The door panels also feature door trim shadow illumination. All this said, given that the electronic door panels are built into the door armrests, I think the panels are a little bereft of hardware and I'd love to see some shine - as in aluminum speakers or something. Though I am happy to see F Sport aluminum pedals at my feet.
The comfortable front seats are heated and ventilated and offer nice lumbar support. The driver's seat is 10-way power, the passenger's 8-way. Paddle shifters on the heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel are more than meets the eye as they offer a Lexus first-ever M mode. It's a virtual manual gear shift system controlled through the paddle shifters. It also simulates engine and exhaust sounds.
Beneath the dash, an available radiant heater takes the place of a glove box. But the center console offers ample space.
The RZ is equipped with Lexus' current-generation clean, responsive multimedia interface with a 14-inch touchscreen. (A new interface debuts on the 2026 ES.) The system is compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and 'Hey Lexus" is available with a Lexus Drive Connect subscription. My test model upgrades from a 10-speaker sound system to a 13-speaker Mark Levinson system thanks to the optional Luxury package.
A tech-focused center stack features capacitive touch climate controls. You can also operate climate settings using the multimedia touchscreen. A minimalist center console houses the gear shift, cupholders, Auto Brake Hold and the electronic parking brake.
Lexus says it's improved its Dynamic Sky Panorama Glass Roof which is standard on all but the base RZ trim.
A roomy second row offers nice leg and head-room. Seats are comfortable and the F Sport adds heated rear outboard seats. Back seat passengers enjoy their own A/C vents, soft-touch seatbacks and a drop-down center console with cupholders.
A power rear door with a kick sensor opens to a spacious cargo area with tonneau cover and an optional carpeted cargo mat.
Standard features include dual-zone climate, a wireless charger, and 5 USB ports, three of those up front.
The RZ delivers effortless, composed and exceptional power - with off-the-line acceleration that impresses.
The new 550e F Sport's suspension tweaks contribute towards its engaging and refined driving dynamics. Lexus also revised the RZ AWD's power distribution.
The RZ is a comfortable, quiet and super smooth ride on the highway as you'd expect of a Lexus. Braking is excellent. Sport, Normal, Eco, Range and Custom drive modes are standard across the lineup.
Lexus went to great lengths to make the cabin quiet. Engineers installed a rear floor silencer under the back seat to suppress noise from the rear drive motor and added soundproofing to several areas to address road and wind noise.
Range And Charging
Range is a little lacking in today's world, but with its terrific performance and ability to use a Tesla Supercharger you won't find me complaining. The RZ 550e F Sport AWD with 20-inch wheels delivers up to 229 miles range.
Yes, to my delight, new for 2026 the RZ is equipped with an NACS port to access Tesla Superchargers. However, as I discovered the location of the charging port could potentially pose an issue. The Tesla charging cord was too short so I had to park creatively. While I used the Tesla app, 2026 Lexus BEV owners have the option to access Tesla's network using Plug & Charge through the Lexus app. Lexus cites a DC fast charging time of 10% to 80% in around 30 minutes.
The RZ also has a 11 kW onboard charger and a dual-voltage charging port for 120 and 240 volt charging.
The RZ is equipped with Lexus Safety System 3.0+ with Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Road Sign Assist, Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) and Intelligent High Beams.
Also standard across the lineup: Blindspot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Digital Latch with Safe Exit Assist, and Panoramic View Monitor. The F Sport is also equipped with Intuitive Parking Assist with Auto Braking. The Luxury package additional adds Advanced Park with Remote Park and a Digital Rearview mirror.
Options include Blue Brake Calipers ($500), Cold Area Package ($200), Luxury Package Digital Key ($2600), Carpet Cargo mat ($140), and Wheel Locks ($99).
The refreshed RX goes a long way to improve its standing in the all-electric SUV world. It was also a smart move to add the new F Sport to the lineup and its roughly $62,000 price point works for me, too.