New Lexus RZ electric SUV coming to South Africa – What you need to know

Lexus has confirmed that the upcoming RZ 450e – the brand’s first built-from-the-ground-up battery-electric vehicle (BEV), is coming to South Africa.

The SUV will make its debut in 2024, with the exact date and local pricing to be revealed closer to the time, said the manufacturer.

The RZ 450e is the first of several BEVs planned from Lexus, as the Japanese automaker aims to have a fully-electric line-up by 2030 and exclusively sell BEVs from 2035 onwards.

Powertrain

The RZ marks the debut of the automaker’s new “e-Axle” system, comprising two electric motors mounted at the front and rear of the car that work in tandem with the Direct4 all-wheel-drive system.

The front motor produces 150kW, while the rear adds another 80kW, resulting in a maximum output of 230kW.

This configuration, along with a 71.4kWh lithium-ion battery integrated into the chassis, provides a low centre of gravity for responsive handling, said the company.

The battery is expected to retain at least 70% of its maximum charge after 10 years, and with a full charge, the RZ can travel approximately 395km before needing to top up. If 18-inch wheels are fitted instead of 20-inch ones, the maximum range can be extended by as much as 40km, said the carmaker.

The 450e itself is 4,805mm in length, making it the middle child between the mid-size NX and large RX SUVs.

Later in the BEV’s life cycle, the manufacturer also plans to offer a drive-by-wire steering system, as well as its in-development One Motion Grip function for better traction and more precise steering.

Features

Lexus has taken the design principles of its spindle grilles and applied them to the whole SUV – making for a “spindle body” which prioritizes aerodynamics.

The cabin, on the other hand, follows the principles of “omotenashi” – Japanese for hospitality – which translates to a clean, spacious, and minimalist environment.

The various panels have a suede and wood-grain trim, a panoramic sunroof is standard, and ambient lighting is included, too.

Additionally, the front is equipped with heated seats and a 14-inch entertainment unit, and the driver is assisted by programmes like a pre-collision system, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert, driver drowsiness monitoring, emergency automatic braking, and an autonomous parking agent for parallel, front, and backup parking and exit.

Lexus RZ 450e