The first Lexus EV sold in the United States will be a crossover SUV called the RZ, the automaker confirmed Thursday.
The RZ is due to arrive in the U.S. in 2022, likely as a 2023 model, as is expected to be badged as the RZ 450e in this market. That corresponds to how Lexus has traditionally used the lowercase "h" for hybrids.
A trio of teaser images shows some design elements that seem to have carried over from LZ-F Electrified concept unveiled in March, but with a more upright and SUV-like profile.
Lexus didn't offer any technical details, but the RX could use the same e-TNGA platform as the 2023 Toyota BZ4X and 2023 Subaru Solterra twins. That would make it a smaller crossover, similar in size to the current Lexus NX.
![Teaser for Lexus RZ debuting in 2022 Teaser for Lexus RZ debuting in 2022](https://images.hgmsites.net/lrg/teaser-for-lexus-rz-debuting-in-2022_100817794_l.jpg)
Teaser for Lexus RZ debuting in 2022
Lexus parent Toyota previously indicated that the luxury brand's EVs will offer more performance and range than Toyota-badged models, which will focus on affordability.
Expect the RZ to have Lexus' new dual-motor drive tech aimed at providing ride and handling benefits—perhaps comparable to the e-4orce system Nissan has developed.
The RZ won't be the first production Lexus EV, but will be the first available on these shores. Lexus already offers a fully electric UX300e in Europe, but there are no plans to bring it to the U.S.
Last year, Lexus also announced plans for the arrival of its first plug-in hybrid later in 2021—a version of the NX crossover. The NX was redesigned for the 2022 model year, retaining the option of a hybrid powertrain from the previous generation.