2022 Lexus RZ (EV)

Lexus RZ review

WHAT'S THE VERDICT?

“Unfortunately, the standard version of the RZ is just a little too ‘generic EV SUV’ for our liking right now”

Clearly a huge amount of effort has gone into Lexus’ new steer-by-wire system, and although it won’t be hitting our streets until 2025 (and we’re not fully sold on its effectiveness just yet), at least it provides the RZ with an interesting differentiator.

Unfortunately, the standard version is just a little too ‘generic EV SUV’ for our liking right now, and it’s an expensive one at that. We like the fancy tech of the higher spec models, but we prefer the comfort of the smaller wheeled models – there’s been too much sacrificed at the altar of performance here and we’re not sure the RZ is worth the extra outlay over some impressive competition.

 
What on earth is Lexus thinking with this terrible RZ Sport Concept?

Twin-winged electric crossover makes its debut at The Quail. Scares many wealthy people

Lexus unveiled this RZ Sport Concept at the Tokyo Auto Salon earlier this year, so firstly, let us apologise for not spotting it at the time.

Now it's on our radar because Lexus gave the RZ Sport Concept its North American debut at The Quail last Friday during Monterey Car Week. The Quail is perhaps the fanciest event of the week, so how on earth the Max Power-style bodykit on this electric SUV managed to get past security is a question the event should be asking itself.

 
Lexus adds an entry-level configuration to its RZ lineup for 2024

Lexus just announced a new entry-level configuration of its RZ lineup. It's called RZ 300e and sits under the RZ 450e, offering a cheaper entry point for the model. It's FWD as opposed to the AWD 450e and offers a longer range. But first things, first.

The RZ 300e employs a single front-mounted 150 kW motor, just like the base Toyota bZ4X and runs on the same 72.8 kWh battery found in the bZ4X. It's supplied by CATL and despite the modest capacity increase, the 300e offers slightly longer range.

With the 18-inch wheels, the RZ 300e can go for 428 km away from the plug while the 450e 18-inch option does just 354 km, according to EPA. The reason for this is the more power-hungry AWD system on the 450e configuration.

 
Toyota and Lexus to enter South African electric car market in 2025

As many automotive giants go all in on electric cars, Toyota is taking a more measured approach to the future of motoring.

Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda recently stated that he doesn’t expect full battery electric vehicles (BEVs) to reach a market share of more than 30% no matter how much progress they make.

Although the company is hedging its bets on hydrogen innovations and the further development of hybrids, it is still investing heavily in full electric vehicles with the aim of producing 3.5 million of them annually by 2030.

Toyota’s cautious approach to BEVs is mirrored in South Africa, which has also been slow to electrify due to myriad factors such as load shedding and high tax rates for battery vehicles.

But Toyota South Africa (TSAM) will be entering the electric vehicle market from 2025, its Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Leon Theron, announced at the recent State of the Motor Industry (SOMI) event held at Kyalami.

 
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