Three Ways to Drive Electric: Comparing the 2026 Lexus RZ Lineup in Durham Region

The 2026 Lexus RZ lineup will arrive later this year with three distinct battery-electric powertrains, offering Ontario drivers unprecedented choice in how they approach zero-emission luxury. From the efficiency-focused RZ 350e with approximately 486 kilometres of estimated range to the high-performance RZ 550e F SPORT AWD delivering 408 total system horsepower and the Lexus-first M Mode feature, the expanded RZ lineup addresses different priorities without compromising the refined experience Lexus is known for.

For drivers in Ajax and across Durham Region who are considering the transition to battery-electric vehicles, the 2026 RZ lineup will provide three answers to the same question: how do you want your electric SUV to perform? This guide breaks down the differences in power output, range, driving dynamics, and intended use case to help you identify which RZ model will match your needs when it arrives at Lexus of Lakeridge.

The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD: High-Performance Electric

The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD will arrive as the most powerful RZ model, generating 300 kW (408 hp) total system output from higher-output front and rear motors. The 0-100 km/h sprint will take just 4.4 seconds, making this one of the quickest electric SUVs in the luxury segment. The suspension will receive special tuning with adjusted damper and spring settings to provide exhilarating handling while maintaining ride comfort for daily driving.

F SPORT exterior design will include distinctive black elements: the F SPORT emblem, rear spoiler, front and rear bumper mouldings, front grille, and 20-inch wheels with aero covers that reduce weight and improve energy efficiency by smoothing airflow. Blue brake callipers will add a visual signature, while the exclusive Wind exterior colour—a solid light grey with subtle metallic highlights—will create bold contrast against the black F SPORT features.

Inside, the RZ 550e F SPORT AWD cabin will feature Black Ultrasuede interior trim with blue stitching accents available only on this grade. The design will include a centre console with micro-geometric pattern, front F SPORT scuff plates, a steering wheel with the F SPORT emblem, and aluminium pedals and footrests. Thematic Illumination with Animated Door Trim Shadow Illumination will add subtle flickering movement that evokes the passage of time, creating a refined atmosphere unique to Lexus battery-electric vehicles.

The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD will offer an estimated driving range of approximately 366 kilometres when equipped with 20-inch tires and charged under ideal conditions. The 76.96 kWh battery capacity will support the higher output demands of dual high-performance motors, while DC fast charging will enable 10-80% battery capacity in approximately 30 minutes under ideal conditions.

Lexus-First M Mode: Virtual Manual Control

M Mode will debut on the RZ 550e F SPORT AWD as an electronic system that provides virtual manual gear shifting via paddle shifters. This innovation will deliver a sportier, more responsive driving feel by allowing drivers to control power output with paddle shifters as if using a manual transmission.

The system will feature a virtual eight-speed gear setup where drivetrain output is determined by combining virtual power source torque—calculated based on throttle input and vehicle speed—with the gear ratio selected via the paddle shifters. To enhance the experience, Lexus will simulate engine and exhaust sounds, while a shift guide metre in the instrument display will allow drivers to track gear changes in real-time. M Mode will bring the tactile engagement of manual shifting to battery-electric propulsion, addressing drivers who want active involvement in performance delivery.

RZ 450e AWD: Balanced Power and Range

The RZ 450e AWD will generate 230 kW (313 hp) total system output, offering strong acceleration and confident all-weather capability through the DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system. This model will achieve an estimated driving range of approximately 420 kilometres when equipped with 18-inch tires and charged under ideal conditions.

DIRECT4 will optimize drive force, traction, and posture control by adjusting front-to-rear power distribution based on driving conditions. During starting and straight-line acceleration, the system will use a 60:40 to 0:100 front-to-rear ratio to minimize vehicle pitch. During cornering, power will be distributed between 80:20 and 0:100 based on vehicle speed and steering angle, delivering smooth turn-in and stable corner exit.

The RZ 450e AWD will balance performance with practicality for drivers who prioritize daily convenience without sacrificing dynamic capability. With 0-100 km/h acceleration in 5.3 seconds, this model will deliver responsive urban driving and confident highway merging when it arrives later this year.

RZ 350e: Efficiency-Focused Entry Point

The RZ 350e will introduce front-wheel drive to the Canadian RZ lineup for the first time, generating 165 kW (224 hp) and achieving an estimated driving range of approximately 486 kilometres when equipped with 18-inch tires and charged under ideal conditions. This configuration will prioritize maximum range for drivers whose daily routines rarely exceed city and suburban distances.

The front-wheel drive layout will reduce weight compared to AWD models, contributing to improved energy efficiency. With 0-100 km/h acceleration in 7.5 seconds, the RZ 350e will deliver adequate performance for everyday driving while maximizing kilometres per charge. Drivers who value range above all-weather capability will find this model well-suited to southern Ontario's climate and road conditions.

Comparing the 2026 RZ Lineup

Who Should Choose Each RZ Model?

Choose the RZ 350e if:

• Your daily driving rarely exceeds 400 kilometres
• You prioritize maximum range over all-weather capability
• You primarily drive in urban and suburban environments in southern Ontario
• You want the most efficient entry point to battery-electric luxury

Choose the RZ 450e AWD if:

• You need confident all-weather capability for Ontario winters
• You want balanced performance and range
• You drive a mix of city, highway, and seasonal cottage routes
• You prioritize the DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system for traction and handling

Choose the RZ 550e F SPORT AWD if:

• You want the most powerful RZ available
• You value driving engagement and tactile feedback through M Mode
• You appreciate F SPORT styling and track-tuned suspension
• You prioritize performance over maximum range

Revised BEV System and Charging

All 2026 RZ models will feature a revised battery-electric system with a new eAxle and upgraded lithium-ion battery. Battery capacity will increase to 76.96 kWh across the lineup, supporting improved motor output and extended range. The eAxle will deliver 167 kW of motor output, up from 150 kW in the front and 80 kW in the rear on previous models.

The new high-capacity lithium-ion battery improves and increases the number of battery cells, enabling higher output from the electric motors. An updated water-cooling system for the BEV system and battery will help maximize output by maintaining optimal operating temperatures.

The 2026 RZ will adopt the North American Charging System (NACS) charging port on the passenger side, enabling access to thousands of high-speed charging stations across Canada. Level One and Level Two AC charging will benefit from a higher-capacity 11 kW onboard AC charger, up from 7 kW on the prior model year. Under ideal conditions when using DC fast charging, the RZ will be capable of charging from 10% to 80% battery capacity in approximately 30 minutes.

Lexus Driving Signature and Body Rigidity

Lexus Driving Signature guides the development of all Lexus vehicles, providing a unified driving experience across the lineup. This philosophy emphasizes a linear connection between driver and vehicle, promoting a smoother, more comfortable ride with exceptional quietness unique to Lexus battery-electric vehicles.

For the 2026 RZ, increased structural rigidity around the radiator support and the addition of a rear brace will reduce body deformation in all directions, resulting in clean and linear steering response. The refined suspension system will support vehicle dynamics and ride comfort. The front MacPherson strut suspension will increase low-frequency damping force to create a flatter, more stable ride. The rear suspension will expand damper variable range to optimize both low- and high-frequency damping forces, improving handling stability and ride comfort.

RZ 450e AWD and RZ 550e F SPORT AWD models will include a rear floor silencer installed under the back seat to suppress noise from the rear drive motor. Soundproofing applied to the tonneau cover, back door trim, and deck box will address road and wind noise, while high-damping adhesive on the body floor panel will reduce vibrations and contribute to high-quality ride comfort.

Interior Evolution and Technology

The 2026 RZ cabin will maintain a minimalist, yet airy and maximally appointed luxury environment. The 2026 RZ will offer an improved Dynamic Sky Panorama Glass Roof, enabling greater shading when opaque and a clearer view of the outside when transparent.

Available Ultrasuede door trim will feature a laser-etched pattern design, representing another Lexus-first application. Following the introduction of Door Trim Shadow Illumination on the RZ in 2023, Lexus will add Thematic Illumination with Animated Door Trim Shadow Illumination, where subtle flickering movement on the door trim evokes the passage of time based on Lexus' "Time in Design" philosophy.

Range and Real-World Driving Considerations

The estimated ranges provided for each RZ model—486 km for the RZ 350e, 420 km for the RZ 450e AWD, and 366 km for the RZ 550e F SPORT AWD—represent manufacturer estimates under ideal conditions. Real-world range will vary based on several factors that Ontario drivers should consider.

Cold weather reduces battery performance and available range. Heating the cabin in winter draws power from the battery pack, further reducing range. Highway driving at sustained speeds above 100 km/h consumes more energy than city driving, where regenerative braking recovers energy. Aggressive acceleration and high-speed driving will reduce range more quickly than gentle throttle inputs and moderate speeds.

For drivers in Durham Region, a useful rule of thumb is to expect approximately 70-80% of the estimated range during winter months, and approximately 90-100% of the estimated range during spring, summer, and fall. This means the RZ 350e should deliver 340-390 km of winter range and 435-486 km of three-season range under typical driving conditions. The RZ 450e AWD should provide 295-335 km of winter range and 380-420 km of three-season range. The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD should offer 255-290 km of winter range and 330-366 km of three-season range.

Charging Infrastructure for Ontario Drivers

The adoption of the NACS charging port will provide RZ owners with access to thousands of high-speed charging stations across Canada, including the extensive Supercharger network. This addresses one of the primary concerns for battery-electric vehicle buyers: charging availability during long-distance travel.

For daily charging, most RZ owners will charge at home using a Level 2 (240V) charging station. The 11 kW onboard charger will enable approximately 50-60 kilometres of range added per hour of Level 2 charging.

Level 1 charging from a standard household 120V outlet will add approximately 5-8 kilometres of range per hour—adequate for overnight charging if daily driving distance is minimal, but insufficient for most drivers who cover more than 50 kilometres per day.

DC fast charging will provide rapid charging during road trips or when immediate range is needed. The RZ will support charging from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes under ideal conditions at high-speed DC charging stations. Charging slows significantly after 80% to protect battery longevity, so most drivers will find 10-80% charging most practical for road trip stops.

Experience the 2026 RZ at Lexus of Lakeridge

The 2026 Lexus RZ lineup will offer three distinct approaches to battery-electric luxury when it arrives later this year. From efficiency-focused front-wheel drive to high-performance F SPORT capability, each model will address different priorities without compromising the refined experience Lexus is known for. Reserve your spot to be among the first to experience the expanded RZ lineup at our Ajax dealership when it arrives.