Lexus Australia will offer the steering yoke on the all-electric RZ midsize SUV as an option in the future. However, it will not be available to buyers at the new model’s debut.
This information was recently confirmed by Lexus Australia CEO John Pappas during an interview with Chasing Cars at the local launch of the SUV.
The all-electric RZ is offered in two grades locally
When asked if it would be included as standard with the range-topping RZ model, Pappas was quick to point out that this will not be the case.
“That will be another option: for you to get the RZ with a yoke steering wheel,” he said.
Pappas pointed out that the yoke will come at a premium cost to buyers over the more conventional circular steering wheel that’s fitted as standard.
The RZ uses a steer-by-wire system with the yoke
“That [steering yoke] won’t be a no-cost option. That technology is very expensive.”
It was also revealed that buyers shouldn’t be expecting the yoke to become available within the year.
“It’s still 12 to 18 months away,” Pappas added.
The steering yoke brings an aeroplane-like aesthetic to the cabin of the RZ
Currently, Lexus Australia offers the RZ450e in two grades, starting at $123,000 before on-road costs for the Luxury, and $135,000 before on-road costs for the range-topping Sports Luxury model.
Lexus RZ450e: prices in Australia
All prices listed are before on-road costs.
- Luxury: $123,000
- Sport Luxury: $135,000
