Lexus has finally entered the dedicated battery-electric arena with the RZ. Built on a bespoke EV platform, it promises to blend traditional high-end craftsmanship with a futuristic driving experience. Can this premium SUV spark a new era for the Japanese marque in South Africa?
Where does the Lexus RZ fit in?
The Lexus RZ represents a major shift for the brand locally. While Lexus SA has been playing in the hybrid space since 2008, the RZ is their first “ground-up” electric vehicle. It doesn’t share a platform with a petrol car; instead, it uses a dedicated electric architecture that enables better interior packaging and a lower centre of gravity.
In South Africa, the RZ arrives as a sophisticated contender in the luxury electric SUV segment. It isn’t just a niche alternative; it is the new benchmark for how Lexus wants its cars to drive and feel. With a range of models from the well-equipped EX to the sharper F Sport, it aims to attract buyers who want the prestige of the “L” badge without a drop of fuel.
Design & Packaging
Visually, the RZ is a stylish addition to the range. It swaps the traditional spindle grille for a “spindle body” design that looks athletic and planted. The F Sport versions look even meaner, featuring functional air ducts to cool the brakes and subtle fins on the bumpers to help the car cut through the air more efficiently. These probably have more of a visual effect than a functional use case.
The interior is where the RZ really impresses. It feels beautifully put together and fully modern throughout, making you feel like you’re sitting somewhere truly premium and exclusive. The dashboard is designed around the driver, with the 14-inch touchscreen and primary controls all angled for easy reach.
Comparison: Find out how the Lexus RZ compares to the BMW iX and Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV
The real talking point, however, is the optional yoke-style steering wheel. Gripping it feels like a cognitive shift in mindset; it allows you to channel your inner F1 driver and focuses your psyche entirely on the road. Interestingly, it behaves like a normal wheel up until the 90-degree mark. Beyond that, the steering ratio becomes exceptionally quick (it only turns 180 degrees in total). It makes parking a bit tricky at first, but once you stop trying to do the traditional “arm-over-arm” movements, it actually makes low-speed manoeuvring much easier. Just keep in mind that on very long journeys, the lack of a top rim means there are fewer places to rest your hands.
Ride, Handling & Comfort
Lexus has prioritised a calm, composed ride here. All models come standard with all-wheel drive, which constantly adjusts power to the wheels to keep the car stable on often unpredictable road surfaces. The F Sport models go a step further with performance-tuned dampers for better cornering.
The cabin is remarkably quiet, but it’s the clever comfort tech that stands out. There are new infrared radiant heaters located under the dashboard that warm the driver and passenger’s legs directly. It’s much faster than waiting for hot air to blow through the vents and uses about 8% less energy, which helps preserve your battery range.
Performance & Efficiency
The RZ uses a 74.6 kWh or 76.9 kWh battery pack paired with dual electric motors. The EX and SE models produce 280 kW, while the F Sport pushes that to 300 kW. While it’s undeniably rapid, it doesn’t necessarily move the needle in terms of typical EV dynamics – it’s fast but refined rather than aggressive. You can expect a real-world range of around 400 km, which is plenty for the daily commute.
One of the quirkier features is the “Interactive Manual Drive” system. It uses software to mimic the feel of an 8-speed gearbox, complete with artificial gear shifts and sound plumbed into the cabin. It will even “bounce” off an artificial rev limiter if you don’t “shift” in time. It feels a bit un-Lexus and is arguably a gimmick, but it’s a fun, show-offy feature to demonstrate to your mates.
The Outspoken RZ 600e
If the current range is too subtle for you, wait for the RZ 600e F Sport Performance arriving later this year. This is the halo model, and it looks more like something from The Fast and the Furious than a typical upmarket Lexus. It’s covered in carbon-fibre wings, aggressive vents, and aerodynamic addenda everywhere. While it might be a bit too outspoken for the traditional Lexus owner, it certainly makes a statement about what electrified performance can look like.
Lexus RZ Price & After-sales support
Lexus SA is offering an impressive ownership package to help ease any range anxiety or reliability concerns. All models come with a 7-year/105 000 km maintenance plan and warranty. The battery gets even more protection with an 8-year/160 000 km warranty.
On the charging front, Toyota has started installing stations at dealerships that are connected to the GridCars network, so they are open to all EV users. The RZ also features a 22 kW onboard charger as standard, allowing for faster top-ups at home or public AC points.
| Lexus RZ 500e EX | R1 649 400 |
| Lexus RZ 500e SE | R1 823 800 |
| Lexus RZ 550e F Sport | R1 938 600 |
Verdict
The Lexus RZ is a polished, highly considered entry into the electric market. It succeeds by not trying to be a tech gadget on wheels, but rather a proper luxury car that happens to be electric. The interior quality is top-tier, and the clever heating tech shows they’ve really thought about the passenger experience.
It might not be the most revolutionary EV in terms of raw range, but the combination of high-end refinement and a massive 7-year local warranty makes it a very compelling, stylish, and exclusive package for South Africans looking to go electric.
Read more: SA’s EV sales fell in 2025
