The epitome of quiet luxury: unveiling the all-new Lexus RX and RZ
In the realm of luxury automobiles, one name has consistently stood out for its commitment to sophistication, craftsmanship, and innovation: Lexus. This year, the renowned brand has once again surpassed expectations by introducing two new electrified models that redefine the concept of luxury. The all-new Lexus RX and RZ exemplify the essence of "quiet luxury," a trending term that defines the brand's philosophy of combining refined comfort with cutting-edge technology. Remix Brand Manager Portia had the privilege of experiencing firsthand the personalised luxury offered by these remarkable vehicles on a captivating journey through the surreal landscapes of Queenstown.
Driving the new models through the surreal landscapes of Queenstown, Wānāka and Lake Hāwea served as an ideal backdrop to experience the whisper-quiet performance of the new Lexus RX and RZ. As the vehicles glided through the winding roads, the absence of engine noise allowed me to appreciate the sheer serenity that permeated the cabin. The vehicles' electrified powertrain ensured a seamless and refined acceleration, creating an unobtrusive driving experience that perfectly complemented the breathtaking surroundings.
During my incredible trip with Lexus, I had the pleasure of staying and dining at the enchanting Gibbston Valley. We embarked on a ‘roadie’ day putting the new models to the test, including driving to Wānāka, my favourite lakeside town, and stopped at Rippon for a gorgeous morning tea, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. The journey continued to Cloudy Bay's picturesque South Island home nestled in the hills for a divine platter-style lunch, overlooking vineyards and snow-dusted mountains. The combination of stunning landscapes and the luxurious experiences offered by these destinations perfectly encapsulated the essence of Lexus' commitment to providing exceptional quality and unforgettable moments.
Lexus RX: A Masterpiece of Efficiency and Performance
The all-new Lexus RX raises the bar with its turbo hybrid and hybrid electric powertrains, enhancing efficiency and performance. As the fifth-generation model, the RX showcases next-generation Lexus design and the renowned Lexus Driving Signature for an evolved driving experience. As I navigated the stunning landscapes of Queenstown, I couldn't help but feel connected to the vehicle. The Lexus RX anticipated my every need, adjusting seating positions, ambient lighting and effortless media control, making my drive a breeze. The attention to detail showcased Lexus' commitment to enhancing the driving experience by transcending the boundaries of automotive engineering.
The RX hones in on the latest Lexus technology advancements, keeping enhanced efficiency, performance and safety at the forefront of the design. The Lexus Teammate advanced drive function is designed to enhance both safety and convenience for the driver when on the road with an advanced self-parking system and panoramic in-built roof. Being the first F SPORT Performance variant from Lexus, the RX combines a turbo-charged 2.4L engine, six-speed automatic transmission, DIRECT4 AWD system and an upgraded hybrid system which produces a whopping 273kW of power. Being a core model for Lexus New Zealand, the RX model and its newly introduced turbo hybrid electric powertrain directly contribute to Lexus’ pledge to reduce its carbon emissions.
The RX's exterior design captivates with its distinctive spindle body, a signature feature of the brand. Luxury is elevated in the Limited and Limited Enhancement Pack variants, offering premium features like 21-inch dark metallic alloy wheels, Bladescan adaptive high-beam headlights, a Qi wireless device charger which was one of my favourite
features ensuring my phone was charged throughout a long road trip.
Stepping into the RX, I was greeted by the captivating Tazuna cockpit, derived from the Japanese word for "rein of a horse," enabling direct and intuitive control, and made me feel in tune with the vehicle. Every surface and every touchpoint exuded a sense of opulence, showcasing the brand's renowned Takumi craftsmanship. The large multi-media screen, and centralised gauges minimised distractions allowing me to focus on the road, particularly when driving through the long winding gorges!
Lexus RZ: Electrified Performance Redefined
The Lexus RZ 450e was a totally different experience, allowing me to embrace the feeling of a fully electrified vehicle. The design was made up of sleek, sharp lines and an aerodynamic silhouette that complimented the incredible views of Queenstown perfectly. With a preference for minimalism, the simple yet highly aesthetic interior of the RZ model ensured a comfortable drive, and the panoramic roof allowed me to take in 360 ̊ views of Queenstown’s landscape. Inside the RZ, Lexus continues to prioritise luxury, craftsmanship, and sustainability. I loved the minimalist and spacious design of the interior, which amplified the message of sustainable mobility through the use of mindfully sourced materials. The highly efficient heating system, including a Lexus-first radiant heater, was perfect for the 5-degree Queenstown weather.
The performance of the Lexus RZ was very unique, delivering an incredible venture when it comes to a fully electrified vehicle. With Lexus working towards 100% BEV models by 2035 goal, this model was an incredible step in the right direction. The new e-TNGA platform which the RZ model is built on gives Lexus the flexibility to create a range of vehicles with different motor sizes, battery types and drive systems, trailblazing the way for electrified cars of the future. The Lexus Driving Signature' allows for a seamless drive, aiming to achieve a predictable, linear response aligning with the driver’s intentions. The DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system controls the front and back wheels, adapting to the driving and road surface conditions, making sure that safety stays at the forefront of every experience when in the car.
In an era where noise and distractions often dominate our daily lives, the new Lexus RX and RZ models offer a welcome respite. They represent the epitome of "quiet luxury," a philosophy that goes beyond physical attributes to create a holistic experience where the driver becomes one with the vehicle. The seamless integration of electrification,
exquisite design, and personalised features elevates the driving experience to a realm of unparalleled sophistication.
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