And the latest Tesla Model Y Performance rival is … a Lexus. Yep, you read that right, Lexus!
The conservative Japanese premium brand Lexus has launched a new faster version of its inbound facelifted 2026 Lexus RZ mid-size SUV that boasts more power, a sharper chassis tune and and aggressive body kit.
This might boggle your mind, but it could be launched in Australia to steal sales from the Tesla Model Y Performance.
The headline news is the hot Lexus RZ600e F Sport Performance pumps out 313kW of power. That’s 13kW more than the previously most-powerful RZ550e that has already been confirmed for our market.
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With both the front- and rear e-motor now rated at 167kW and 268Nm, the RZ600e still launches from 0-100km/h in an identical 4.4 seconds to the RZ550e.
Powered by the same 77kWh battery pack as the facelifted RZ550e, the new flagship Lexus mid-size SUV is expected to cover the same 450km on a charge using the European WLTP test cycle.
Broadcasting its sharper more engaging drive, the RZ600e comes with a full carbon-fibre aero kit that bolts on a large front splitter, a pair air blades on both the front- and rear fenders, an over-sized diffuser and a massive pair of spoilers mounted on the rear tailgate.
All the new carbon-fibre wind-bending aids are finished in gloss black.
Helping enhance performance are lightweight parts, again made from carbon-fibre that include a bonnet and roof panel constructed using the lightweight composite.
Upfront, the bumper has also been tweaked, while a pair of vents have been added to the bonnet.
Hinting at a set of comprehensive chassis upgrades, the RZ600e sports a set of new 21-inch black Enkei alloy wheels that are shod with a set of stickier 255/40 section Yokohama Advan Sport rubber on the front axle and wider 295/35 tyres at the rear.
Built for hard driving and track use, there are a set of larger 20-inch brake discs that are combined with blue six-piston brake callipers.
Just two paint options are available – Hakugin II matte white and Neutrino Grey, with the latter combined with subtle blue highlights.
Inside, both versions gain Lexus’ steer-by-wire system that provides the driver with a yoke-style steering wheel. Passengers settle into new Ultrasuede-trimmed seats.
There’s no word yet if the new RZ600e F Sport Performance will be launched in Australia, but the 280kW RZ500e and 300kW RZ550e F Sport are set to be rolled out locally in the first half of 2026 as Lexus looks to boost so-far minimal interest in its luxury electric SUV in Australia.
