Lexus gives electric RZ a petrol-engine soundtrack
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Lexus has enhanced the virtual transmission in its electric RZ 550e F SPORT SUV with a new engine sound that mimics the behaviour of a combustion-engined sports car. Drivers can use steering-wheel paddles to shift through eight simulated gears, while the electronics adjust traction and the soundtrack in tandem. The update reached the Japanese market yesterday, although European models already had similar technology.
Eight virtual gears and a synthetic engine sound
The RZ 550e F SPORT sold in Japan has gained a new Interactive Manual Drive Engine Sound, which complements the virtual gearshift system's Sport mode.
Interactive Manual Drive uses eight virtual gear ratios. The electronics calculate the appropriate torque based on accelerator position and vehicle speed, adjusting traction to suit the selected gear.
Drivers can change gears using steering-wheel paddles or let the system shift automatically. A tachometer-style display appears in the instrument cluster, while the cabin speakers play engine sounds synchronised with acceleration and gear changes.
Lexus offers three volume levels. With the system switched off, the RZ retains the smooth, quiet driving experience typical of an electric car.
Lexus competes with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
The RZ 550e F SPORT has dual-motor all-wheel drive and develops 300 kW. The virtual transmission neither adds power nor changes the drivetrain's actual gear ratio.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N takes a similar approach, with its N e-Shift system simulating an eight-speed transmission. The performance Hyundai delivers up to 478 kW with its temporary power boost engaged, putting the two cars in different performance categories.
Lexus is aiming less to set acceleration records than to make the interaction between driver and car more direct.
There is, however, a certain contradiction in the technology. An electric motor does not need a multi-speed transmission for normal acceleration, so Lexus is using software to add behaviour that electric propulsion makes it possible to dispense with.
European models already had the technology
In Europe, Lexus introduced Interactive Manual Drive with the updated RZ 550e F SPORT back in 2025. From the outset, the system simulated both gear changes and the sound of a combustion engine.
The news of 12 November therefore primarily concerns an enhanced sound system for the Japanese model, rather than the world debut of an entirely new technology. Lexus has not confirmed whether the latest sound calibration will also reach European cars.
In Japan, the entire RZ range also gained a black roof aerial and a digital rear-view mirror as standard. A new grey L tex interior trim was added to the RZ 350e and RZ 500e.
Lexus's approach illustrates an interesting direction in electric sports car development. The instant torque and smooth acceleration of electric propulsion are no longer sufficient selling points. Manufacturers are looking for ways to add the emotional qualities of mechanical cars to the driving experience, even if these are created entirely through software.
