Lexus refreshes UX and RZ models
Lexus is turning up the dial on its local lineup in the Philippines, bringing meaningful upgrades to both its popular hybrid crossover and its flagship all-electric SUV. Rather than just rolling out cosmetic tweaks, the Japanese luxury brand is introducing key technological, performance, and charging enhancements that make living with an electrified vehicle far more practical and engaging.
Starting with the compact end of the garage, the stylish UX hybrid crossover receives a series of thoughtful updates designed to elevate daily urban driving. For the 2026 model year, the range-topping UX 300h F SPORT adopts a more expressive look courtesy of a new two-tone exterior, contrasting black roof rails, body-colored wheel arch moldings, and a newly added moonroof. Inside, cabin convenience takes a major step forward across both available trims. Both the UX 300h F SPORT (priced at P3,508,000) and the entry-level UX 300h Premier (P2,958,000) now come equipped with wireless smartphone charging, a multi-illumination welcome entry system, and a Panoramic View Monitor—a feature drivers will certainly appreciate when squeezing into tight city parking spots. The Premier trim also gains roof rails, adding a touch of lifestyle utility to its urban luxury profile.
Moving up to the brand’s electric banner, the Lexus RZ sees its most comprehensive mechanical overhaul since debuting locally in 2023. To reflect these hardware upgrades, Lexus has restructured the lineup’s nomenclature, rebadging the entry-level offering as the RZ 350e (starting at P4,438,000) and elevating the mid-tier dual-motor variant to the RZ 500e (P5,428,000).
Underneath the floorboards lies the biggest highlight: a larger 74.69-kWh battery pack supplied by CATL, replacing the previous 71.4-kWh setup. Paired with refined energy management, the RZ 500e now claims an extended WLTC driving range of up to 460 kilometers on a single charge.
Replenishing that battery is also significantly faster. Lexus has integrated a 22-kW AC onboard charging system, effectively doubling the previous 11-kW capability while retaining standard CCS2 DC fast-charging compatibility. For owners with access to three-phase AC chargers, this drastically cuts down destination charging times.
Performance gets an equally dramatic boost. Total system output on the dual-motor RZ 500e jumps from 313 PS up to a potent 380 PS, giving the luxury EV noticeably punchier acceleration off the line. Complementing the performance spike are cabin refinements like a digital rearview mirror, exterior door-handle puddle lamps, a rear-seat door-logic reminder system, and an improved panoramic roof layout.
Finally, Lexus teased the performance potential of its electric platform by showcasing the flagship RZ 600e F SPORT Performance. While this extreme, track-focused variant won’t be available for retail purchase in local showrooms, its arrival serves as an engineering halo—demonstrating how far Lexus can push electric driving dynamics as it transitions toward a fully electrified future.
