Lexus New Zealand has officially launched the all-new RZ, bringing together local media to experience the brand’s latest all-electric SUV on local roads for the first time, as the new vehicle market begins to stabilise and demand for electrified vehicles continues to grow.

Held in Kinloch overlooking Lake Taupō, the launch took guests on a curated drive route through the central North Island, designed to reflect real-world New Zealand driving conditions and test the vehicle for themselves.

Attendees also took part in a series of controlled driving exercises designed to bring the RZ’s key technologies to life. This included low-speed manoeuvres to highlight the difference between the Steer-by-Wire and conventional steering, a gymkhana course to explore handling and steering response, and acceleration and braking runs to demonstrate overall performance.

The RZ introduces a new driving interface to New Zealand, combining a yoke steering wheel with Lexus’ Steer-by-Wire system, a first for the local market.

Instead of a traditional mechanical connection, steering inputs are translated electronically, delivering faster response, greater precision and a more controlled driving experience. The system adapts to speed, providing lighter inputs at low speeds and greater stability on the open road, without the need for hand-over-hand steering.

“This is a major step forward for Lexus in New Zealand. Steer-by-Wire fundamentally changes how the vehicle responds to the driver, and once you experience it, you understand the benefit immediately,” says Vice President Andrew Davis.

“It’s a good example of how Lexus is introducing new technology in a way that feels natural and easy to use.”

Designed to work together, the yoke and Steer-by-Wire system reduce unnecessary movement and improve forward visibility, creating a cleaner, more focused driving position. This approach reflects Lexus’ focus on simplifying the driver environment, where design and technology work together seamlessly.

The RZ also introduces connected functionality, allowing drivers to remotely manage charging and pre-condition the vehicle, helping optimise energy use and improve day-to-day convenience.

The launch marks an important step for Lexus as it continues to expand its electrified range in New Zealand, following a record month of 175 registrations in March, driven in part by demand for the NX plug-in hybrid. Today, more than 90 percent of the Lexus range in New Zealand is electrified across hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric options.

“There’s been a lot of change in the market over the past 12 to 18 months, but our approach hasn’t needed to change,” says Davis. “We built flexibility into our lineup from the start, and what we’re seeing now is the market aligning with that.”

“Customers are taking a more considered approach when purchasing a vehicle. It’s about how a vehicle fits into their everyday life, from running costs through to flexibility and ease of use.”

As Lexus’ first model built on a dedicated battery electric platform, the RZ represents the fully electric end of that lineup. It introduces a number of advancements, including driving range of up to 460km (4P-WLTP), increased power output, enhanced charging capability and a new 22kW onboard AC charger.

Designed to deliver a more refined and intuitive driving experience, the RZ combines smooth electric performance with the quietness and comfort expected of a Lexus, with every element carefully considered from driver response through to the cabin environment.

“We’re seeing a more realistic phase of EV adoption now. Customers want something that fits effortlessly into their routine,” says Davis.

“With the RZ, that’s exactly what you get. It’s a fully electric vehicle that’s easy to live with.”

The RZ sits alongside Lexus’ hybrid and plug-in hybrid range, reinforcing the brand’s multi powertrain approach as it continues its transition toward electrification.

“It’s about giving customers choice and confidence, rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all solution,” says Davis.

The all-new RZ is now available at Lexus dealerships nationwide.