Lexus introduces a radical change to the steering column with the RZ 2027, removing the mechanical link between the steering wheel and the wheels to replace it with electronic impulses. The company defines the sales structure for this model, which uses a rectangular steering yoke similar to an airplane cockpit in its top trims. This configuration comes standard on the F SPORT version and is an optional no-cost feature on the LUXURY trim with DIRECT4 all-wheel drive.

The base PREMIUM trim offers two range variants for the bulk of sales. The PREMIUM EFFICIENCY model uses 18-inch wheels to reduce aerodynamic drag, achieving a combined range of 561 kilometers. The standard PREMIUM version swaps these for 20-inch wheels with a machined finish, which lowers the homologated range to 510 kilometers. Both configurations include heated knee areas, a 360-degree camera system, and a central 14-inch touchscreen.

How the system works and trim levels

The steering-by-wire system operates without any mechanical linkage, relying on an electronic management module to interpret the wheel’s rotation. It sends orders to the rack gear in milliseconds, adjusting the reduction ratio based on speed. This allows for full wheel rotation with a slight wrist movement, eliminating the need to cross arms over a round rim while parking. The lineup includes four trim levels: PREMIUM, EXECUTIVE, LUXURY, and F SPORT.

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Adopting this aviation-style yoke is a risky move intended to distinguish the RZ from competitors. While Tesla pioneered this format years ago, market acceptance has been mixed due to ergonomic issues at low speeds. Lexus aims to address these concerns by pairing the yoke with variable reduction steering, avoiding the need for multiple full turns. However, this design is disruptive and unlikely to appeal to every driver, as the market for SUVs traditionally favors familiar, round steering wheels for daily driving.

Spanish pricing list

Spanish division officials have established the official prices for different powertrains and trim levels. The RZ 350e comes with front-wheel drive, while the RZ 500e offers all-wheel drive. Metallic or two-tone paint adds a 750-euro surcharge. The four trim configurations are priced as follows: RZ 350e PREMIUM EFFICIENCY FWD is 52,000 euros, RZ 350e EXECUTIVE FWD is 55,900 euros, RZ 500e EXECUTIVE AWD is 61,900 euros, and RZ 500e LUXURY Steer by wire AWD is 70,900 euros. The arrival of this electric SUV to dealerships tests how the public accepts the permanent removal of traditional mechanical steering in favor of digital controls.