Lexus Gives The 2026 RZ A Fake Gearbox And Yoke Steering
Lexus has unveiled the updated 2026 RZ, featuring new performance variants, a steer-by-wire system, and simulated gear shifts for added driver engagement. While full North American specifications are still pending, Lexus has detailed the European lineup, which includes the RZ 350e, RZ 500e, and a new RZ 550e F Sport trim.
Key Points
- Lexus introduces steer-by-wire with a new yoke-style steering wheel for the 2026 RZ, offering a variable steering ratio similar to the Tesla Cybertruck.
- Powertrain upgrades include a new 77 kWh battery, 375 hp dual-motor setup, and a 402 hp RZ 550e F Sport trim, making it the most powerful RZ yet.
- Interactive Manual Drive system debuts, simulating gear shifts and engine sounds, while improved battery preconditioning aims to enhance charging efficiency and extend range.
Lexus is stepping up efforts to differentiate the RZ from its Toyota bZ4X sibling—while the exterior and interior styling remain unchanged, a new yoke-style steering wheel debuts alongside a steer-by-wire system that eliminates the mechanical connection between the wheel and the front tires.
This variable steering ratio system works similarly to the Tesla Cybertruck, allowing for smoother, more precise control.
The powertrain lineup now features a 77 kWh battery as the only option, exclusive to Lexus. The base front-wheel-drive RZ gets 221 horsepower and offers up to 357 miles of range (WLTP). Dual-motor all-wheel-drive versions now pack 375 hp, which cuts the 0-62 mph time down to 4.6 seconds.
A new RZ 550e F Sport trim takes things further, pushing output to 402 hp, a 4.4-second sprint to 62, and a 280-mile range. Lexus has also introduced an Interactive Manual Drive system, which simulates gear shifts and engine sounds to enhance driver engagement.
Like the Toyota, the RZ's charging has been improved with battery preconditioning for faster charging speeds in cold weather—Lexus has yet to announce official charge times or EPA range estimates.
The automaker does claim that the longest-range version of the RZ will gain an additional 62 miles over the outgoing model—a figure based on the European WLTP cycle. Lexus has not yet confirmed U.S. pricing or availability, but the 2026 RZ is expected to arrive later this year with similar updates.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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