Japanese luxury auto brand Lexus has announced the addition of the new, cheaper, longer-range RZ 300e FWD to its 2024 RZ portfolio.
Lexus RZ background
The Lexus RZ 450e was the first all-electric vehicle model the Toyota-owned brand introduced last April, according to Electrek. Its launch marked the beginning of the brand’s “transition to a BEV-centered brand.”
Lexus started deploying its first-ever EV earlier this year, with sales exceeding 2,500 units through September.
It features a 71.4 kWh battery that enables a maximum driving range of 220 miles. The AWD with 18″ wheel variant starts at $59,850, while the Luxury AWD costs $65,580.
What’s new for 2024?
As per the press release, the RZ 300e FWD with 18″ wheels and 72.8 kWh CATL battery offers a higher EPA-estimated range of up to 266 miles compared to the RZ 450e’s 220 miles. The range rating drops to 224 miles with 20″ wheels.
Its front-wheel drive configuration enables a maximum output of 201 horsepower. Lexus also replaced the previous rear eAxle with a new subframe to reduce noise and vibration.
The model will ride on its parent company’s e-TNGA platform. It features a new spindle body to improve aerodynamics, while its grille has a shutter to enhance efficiency.
Inside, it features a minimalist concept of Tazuna with a driver-focused interior. It offers a 14″ touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. It also has a head-up display and generous cargo space for three golf bags.
More impressively, the RZ 300e FWD is $4,500 cheaper compared to last year’s RZ 450e.
Prices
The all-new Lexus 2024 Lexus RZ 300e Premium FWD with 18″ wheels costs $55,150, while the 20″ wheels are more expensive at $56,390.
The higher-end RZ 300e Luxury FWD costs $60,880, slightly higher than the RZ 450e Premium AWD’s base price of $59,850. Refer to the table below:
| 2024 Lexus RZ trim | MSRP (*including $1,150 delivery fee) |
| RZ 450e Premium AWD w/ 18″ Wheel | $59,850 |
| RZ 450e Premium AWD w/ 20″ Wheel | $61,090 |
| RZ 450e Luxury AWD | $65,580 |
| RZ 300e Premium FWD w/ 18″ Wheel | $55,150 |
| RZ 300e Premium FWD w/ 20″ Wheel | $56,390 |
| RZ 300e Luxury FWD | $60,880 |
For customers who want to get a Copper Crest exterior color, it is possible for 2024 models for an extra fee of $595. Other colors cost an extra $500, including Caviar, Iridium, Cloudburst Gray, Eminent White Pearl, and Ether. In addition, customers can also have a Copper Crest-Ether bi-tone option for $1,200 or Cloudburst Gray for the same amount.
The addition of the cheaper, longer-range RZ 300e FWD is indeed a crucial move for Lexus to compete with its rivals’ upcoming new model launches in 2024. It will aid the brand in withstanding the competition. It also enables the brand to gradually hit its goal of becoming an all-electric brand in North America by 2030 and globally by 2035.
