Which Lexus has Steer-by-Wire?
Lexus, the luxury vehicle division of Toyota, has been at the forefront of automotive innovation, and one of their latest advancements is the introduction of Steer-by-Wire technology in select Lexus models. This cutting-edge system represents a significant departure from traditional steering mechanisms, offering drivers a more responsive and precise driving experience.
What is Lexus Steer-by-Wire?
Steer-by-Wire is a revolutionary steering system that replaces the traditional mechanical linkage between the steering wheel and the vehicle's wheels with an electronic control system. Instead of a physical connection, the steering wheel is connected to sensors that transmit the driver's input to a computer, which then controls the movement of the wheels. This system allows for a more direct and responsive steering feel, as well as the potential for enhanced safety and customization features.
Which Lexus Models Offer Steer-by-Wire?
As of 2025, the Lexus models that feature Steer-by-Wire technology are the Lexus LX and the Lexus RX. These flagship SUVs are the first Lexus vehicles to offer this cutting-edge steering system, providing drivers with a more engaging and precise driving experience.
Benefits of Lexus Steer-by-Wire
The Steer-by-Wire system in Lexus vehicles offers several key benefits:
- Improved Responsiveness: The electronic control system allows for faster and more precise steering inputs, resulting in a more responsive and agile driving experience.
- Enhanced Customization: Drivers can personalize the steering feel and response to their preferences, tailoring the driving dynamics to their individual needs.
- Potential for Increased Safety: The Steer-by-Wire system can integrate with other advanced safety features, such as lane-keeping assist and autonomous emergency braking, to provide a more comprehensive safety package.
These benefits make the Lexus Steer-by-Wire system a compelling choice for drivers who value a dynamic and personalized driving experience.
The Future of Lexus Steer-by-Wire
As Lexus continues to push the boundaries of automotive technology, it is likely that the Steer-by-Wire system will be expanded to more models in the Lexus lineup. This innovative steering technology represents a significant step towards the future of driving, where electronic control systems and advanced safety features work in harmony to provide a more engaging and secure driving experience.
Is Lexus RZ steer-by-wire?
The Lexus RZ features a steer-by-wire system that replaces the traditional mechanical link between the steering wheel and the wheels with an electronic connection, allowing the system to instantly change the steering ratio based on speed. This enables easier, more responsive steering, such as a smaller turning radius at low speeds without hand-over-hand turning, while providing more stable and precise steering at higher speeds. It also allows for a more natural and intuitive driving experience, with less hand movement required for certain maneuvers.
This video explains how the steer-by-wire system works and its benefits: 57sDPCcarsYouTube · Mar 31, 2025
How it works
- No mechanical link: The steering wheel is not physically connected to the tires, unlike a traditional car.
- Electronic signals: The steering wheel angle is measured by sensors, and an electrical signal is sent to a control actuator that turns the wheels.
- Variable ratio: The system can change the ratio of steering wheel movement to wheel movement on the fly.
- Optimized performance:
- At low speeds, the system can provide a quick, 200-degree lock-to-lock turn for tight maneuvers without needing to move your hands.
- At higher speeds, it provides stable and predictable steering.
- Driver feedback: The system is designed to provide feedback to the driver, replicating the feel of traditional steering even though it's electronic.
- Benefits:
- Improved maneuverability at low speeds.
- Enhanced stability and control at high speeds.
- Potential for reduced weight and complexity, although other systems are added.
- Increased visibility and knee room due to the absence of a traditional steering column.
- Considerations:
- The new system, especially with the yoke-style steering wheel, may require an adjustment period for some drivers.
- Not all Lexus RZ models are equipped with the steer-by-wire system; it is an advanced technology offered on specific trims, such as the F SPORT and certain dual-motor versions.
- Some regions may have different availability based on market testing and customer preference.
Does Lexus have electric steering?
Instead it is all electric signals. And smart software working together to create a new kind of driving. Experience. So what does this mean for drivers.
What Lexus is steer-by-wire?
The new Lexus RZ
It is the first model to offer Lexus' new steer-by-wire system. This provides easy, smooth and intuitive control with approximately 200 degrees of turn from neutral to left or right lock.
Which cars have steer-by-wire technology?
Cars with steer-by-wire systems include the Tesla Cybertruck, Lexus RZ 450e, Toyota bZ4X, GMC Hummer EV, and Chevrolet Silverado EV. Previous models like the Infiniti Q50 and Q60 also featured this technology, which replaces the mechanical linkage between the steering wheel and wheels with an electronic one.
This video explains how steer-by-wire technology works in the Tesla Cybertruck: 49sEngineering ExplainedYouTube · May 10, 2024
Current and upcoming models
- Tesla Cybertruck: The first production vehicle in North America to use a steer-by-wire system without a mechanical backup.
- Lexus RZ 450e: Comes with the optional "One Motion Grip" steer-by-wire system and yoke steering wheel.
- Toyota bZ4X: Features a steer-by-wire system, sometimes with a yoke-style wheel.
- GMC Hummer EV: Uses a steer-by-wire system for its rear wheels to improve maneuverability.
- Chevrolet Silverado EV: Includes steer-by-wire technology.
- Rolls-Royce Spectre: Also features steer-by-wire.
- Lotus Eletre: A luxury electric SUV that uses steer-by-wire.
- Honda electric sedan: An upcoming model planned for release in 2026 with this technology.
- Rivian: Is developing steer-by-wire technology, possibly initially for rear-wheel steering.
Previous models
- Infiniti Q50: One of the first production cars to use steer-by-wire, introduced in 2013.
- Infiniti Q60 and QX50/QX55: Also featured the Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) system.
