By Malusi Msomi

We recently spent time in Cape Town with the Lexus RZ, the brand’s first fully electric vehicle in South Africa. The local line-up includes the RZ 500e EX, RZ 500e SE and the range-topping RZ 550e F Sport, with a more powerful RZ 600e F Sport Performance expected to follow later.

Unlike many EVs that adapt existing petrol platforms, the RZ has been developed from the ground up as a battery electric vehicle. It sits on Lexus’ dedicated electric architecture and uses the brand’s DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system, which constantly adjusts torque between the front and rear motors for improved traction and stability.

In terms of design, the F Sport immediately stands out with its more aggressive styling and aerodynamic touches, while the SE feels a bit more reserved but still carries plenty of presence on the road.

Inside, it’s typical Lexus. The cabin is beautifully laid out with a driver-focused layout and a large 14-inch infotainment display at the centre. Everything feels intuitive, with screens and buttons positioned where you naturally expect them to be. The SE adds Ultrasuede trim, a 13-speaker Mark Levinson sound system and a head-up display, creating a noticeably more premium environment.

The F Sport, however, is where things get interesting. It introduces Lexus’ futuristic steer-by-wire system paired with a yoke-style steering wheel. It might look intimidating at first, but the learning curve is surprisingly short. Within a few minutes it starts to feel natural, and the quick steering response adds a new layer of engagement behind the wheel.

Power comes from a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup. The 500e models produce 280 kW and 537 N.m, while the 550e F Sport increases output to 300 kW and 538 Nm. A 77 kWh battery supports DC fast charging, with Lexus claiming up to 500 km of WLTP range and an 80% charge in around 30 minutes under the right conditions.

On the road, both the SE and F Sport deliver what you would expect from Lexus. They are smooth, quiet and comfortable, making them easy daily drivers. The F Sport adds a bit more character thanks to its steering setup and sportier tuning, giving it the edge if you enjoy a more engaging driving experience.

Pricing for the range is as follows:

RZ 500e EX – R1,649,400

RZ 500e SE – R1,823,800

RZ 550e F Sport – R1,938,600

RZ 600e F Sport Performance – TBC

From our time behind the wheel, the Lexus RZ feels like a confident first step into the fully electric space for the brand. It retains the comfort, refinement and craftsmanship Lexus buyers expect, while introducing new technology that points to where the brand is heading next.