07.09.2023
The Lexus RZ, the brand’s first all-electric executive model, wins five stars – the maximum score – in thelatest series of Euro NCAP crash tests.
Equipped with the latest anti-collision systems and numerous active safety innovations, the RZ has demonstrated good crash protection for occupants of different ages, heights and sizes, and is the first car to be awarded by Euro NCAP for occupancy sensing technology of children, according to the latest classification scheme of 2023.
Among the most interesting innovations of the RZ, in fact, the system that detects the presence of children on board. When we are about to get out of the car, the system reminds us not to leave the child in the car, which is extremely dangerous, especially when the outside temperature is particularly high. Once alighted, then, if the system realizes that a child has remained on board, it signals this by turning on the emergency lights.
The RZ – which shares the platform with the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra (already subject to Euro NCAP tests in 2022: five stars for both) – performed well in large-scale crash tests and additional occupant protection ratings, achieving the top marks in the side barrier test.
In the full-width rigid barrier test, however, chest protection was weak for the rear passenger, and in the side pole test, the dummy readings on rib compression indicated a marginal level of protection. Additionally, to reduce the risk of injury to occupants in side crashes, the RZ also offers a standard center airbag.
The Lexus RZ is equipped with numerous onboard sensors that provide the latest Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) functions and impress in autonomous emergency braking tests on the track, simulating critical emergency situations with other road users. Finally, various improvements have been introduced on the RZ to facilitate post-accident rescue. Among these, an advanced eCall system: a multi-collision brake and protections for passengers in the event of vehicle immersion.