New 2025 Lexus RZ: Manual Driving in an Electric SUV?

The 2025 Lexus RZ is not just an update—it is a bold step forward in electric vehicle design, driving experience, and technology. Lexus is clearly aiming to make electric driving more enjoyable and personal, and the result is something genuinely different.

One of the standout features in the new model is the Interactive Manual Drive. It is available on the top-tier 550e F Sport version and honestly, it is a game changer. Lexus has taken the concept of manual driving and brought it into the electric age. There are paddle shifters and eight virtual gear steps. What makes it unique is the synchronized sound and visual shift indicators that make it feel like you are really driving a manual. It is for those who still love that connection with the car—even without a traditional transmission.

Another innovation worth talking about is the steer-by-wire system. Lexus calls it One Motion Grip in some markets, and it replaces the mechanical link between the steering wheel and the front wheels with electronic controls. Instead of a traditional steering wheel, you get a yoke-style setup that only rotates 300 degrees. That means no more hand-over-hand steering. It responds quicker, it is precise, and it changes the game in how you control the vehicle.

The updated battery is a welcome improvement too. Lexus increased the capacity to 77 kilowatt-hours, up from 71.4. That boosts the range to around 357 miles under the WLTP standard. That is a huge leap from the previous model’s 220 miles. Charging is faster now as well, thanks to a battery preconditioning system that optimizes the temperature before charging.

Lexus is also giving us more options. The RZ 300e, RZ 450e, and the new RZ 550e all offer different setups. If you want a more aggressive all-wheel drive experience, the 450e with 313 horsepower from dual motors should do the trick. The 550e is more focused on driving feel, especially with its interactive manual feature.

Overall, the 2025 Lexus RZ feels like a vehicle designed for people who still want that connection behind the wheel but also want the convenience and clean performance of electric power.