We can’t say that Lexus has quietly announced pricing for its all-electric RZ 2023 crossover. Head over to the official Lexus website and you’ll see it emblazoned at the top of the page: The all-new RZ 2023 – All electric. All Lexuses. Starting at $59,650. That figure includes destination fees, but it’s a bit odd that Lexus didn’t send out an official announcement for the cost of the RZ. Looking a little deeper, that’s not the only thing to be curious about the price.
For starters, it’s over $10,000 more than the all-wheel-drive Toyota bZ4X which shares almost everything. It costs $15,000 more than the Subaru Solterra, which comes standard with an AWD layout. Indeed, Lexus buyers get a luxurious interior with high-grade materials and a larger touch screen. There’s more power too, a combined 308 horsepower from the front and rear electric motors versus 215 for the bZ4X and Solterra close-up clones. Was that upgrade alone worth close to $60,000?
That’s where the second curious item comes in. The only way to get your hands on the RZ 450e for its $59,650 starting price is to get a black exterior (Lexus calls it Caviar). Other colors start at $60,150, except for the two-tone model with Black Onyx and a choice of blue or gray starting at $60,850. Similarly, upgrade to the RZ Luxury trim level starting at $65,150 (Premium and Luxury are the only trims on offer for 2023) and you’ll see a similar pricing structure for colors.
At the Luxury level, you get a number of standard features including a 13-speaker Mark Levinson stereo, electric heated seats, and more. Optional extras offer greater flexibility, such as an “activity mount” under the rear bumper which is essentially a receiver hitch that cannot be used for towing. No cables are included, and it’s only rated at 110 pounds. Instead of towing, Lexus says it can be used as a mounting point for hitch-receiver accessories such as a cargo basket or bike carrier. You can also opt for a dash cam for $375, illuminated Lexus grille badges for $200, and illuminated door sills for $460.
With each option box selected, the Lexus RZ 450e Luxury is priced at $72,209. That makes for a compact all-electric crossover with 308 hp and an estimated 225 mile range. It is available to order now online at Lexus.com.
