2026 Lexus RZ Launched in South Africa | Price & Specs
Lexus has officially launched its first fully electric vehicle in South Africa. The 2026 Lexus RZ is now available at dealerships across the country, with pricing starting at R 1 649 400. Built on the same e-TNGA platform as the Toyota bZ4X, the RZ brings a premium all-electric SUV option to South African buyers looking beyond the usual German offerings.
What's New
The Lexus RZ arrives in a three-model range: the RZ 500e EX, RZ 500e SE, and RZ 550e F Sport. All versions feature intelligent all-wheel drive as standard, powered by an electric motor at each axle. At 4 860 mm long, this is a properly sized family SUV with generous cabin space and a large boot — though there is no spare wheel, which is worth noting for South African conditions.
Standard equipment on the entry-level 500e EX includes synthetic leather seats, a 10-speaker audio system, adaptive cruise control, and auto high beam. Step up to the SE or F Sport and you gain a panoramic sunroof with dimming capability, suede seats, heated front and rear seats, intelligent parking assist, a Mark Levinson 13-speaker audio system, and a head-up display.
The F Sport model is the standout, featuring Lexus's steer-by-wire system — a first for the brand — which eliminates the mechanical connection between steering wheel and front wheels. It is paired with a futuristic aircraft-style yoke steering wheel that is sure to turn heads.
Specifications
Battery | 74.6 kWh (500e) / 76.9 kWh (550e F Sport) || Power | 280 kW (500e) / 300 kW (550e F Sport) || Drive | All-wheel drive (standard) || 0-100 km/h | 4.6 seconds (500e) / 4.4 seconds (F Sport) || Top Speed | 180 km/h || Range | 450–500 km (depending on variant) || Length | 4 860 mm |
South African Pricing & Availability
*Lexus RZ 500e EX*: R 1 649 400-
*Lexus RZ 500e SE*: R 1 799 000 (estimated)-
*Lexus RZ 550e F Sport*: R 1 938 600-
*Lexus RZ 600e F Sport Performance*: Pricing to be confirmed
The RZ is available now at Lexus dealerships in South Africa. Note that only 50 units have been allocated for the local market in 2026, so interested buyers should move quickly.
What We Think
The Lexus RZ enters a growing but still niche premium EV segment in South Africa. Its pricing positions it against the BMW iX xDrive40 and Mercedes-Benz EQB, and the standard all-wheel drive, generous range, and luxurious cabin make a strong case. The limited allocation of just 50 units for the entire country underscores how cautious the brand remains about EV demand in SA, but for early adopters who value refinement over charging network bragging rights, the RZ is a compelling proposition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the 2026 Lexus RZ cost in South Africa?The 2026 Lexus RZ is priced from R 1 649 400 for the RZ 500e EX to R 1 938 600 for the RZ 550e F Sport. A range-topping RZ 600e F Sport Performance will arrive later at a price still to be confirmed.
What is the range of the Lexus RZ in South Africa?The Lexus RZ offers a driving range of between 450 and 500 km on a full charge, depending on the variant. The entry-level 500e EX achieves the best range thanks to its smaller wheels and more efficient setup.
How does the Lexus RZ compare to the BMW iX in SA?The Lexus RZ is priced competitively against the BMW iX xDrive40, offering comparable range and standard all-wheel drive. The RZ counters with a more luxurious standard specification, while the iX has a more established charging support network in South Africa.
Is the Lexus RZ practical for South African conditions?The RZ is a spacious family SUV with generous ground clearance and all-wheel drive. However, it lacks a spare wheel and EV charging infrastructure in SA remains limited outside major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, which may be a concern for long-distance travel.
Also worth a look: the Lexus RZ Becomes a Moving Canvas in Collaboration with Artis and the Lexus GX 550: Where Luxury Meets Untamed Wilderness.
FAQ
Q: What does the 2026 Lexus RZ cost in South Africa?
The 2026 Lexus RZ starts at R 1,649,400 for the entry-level 500e EX, with the mid-spec 500e SE estimated at R 1,799,000 and the flagship 550e F Sport priced at R 1,938,600.
Q: Is the Lexus RZ worth buying over German electric SUVs?
The Lexus RZ offers excellent value with standard all-wheel drive, premium features, and proven Toyota reliability, making it a compelling alternative to pricier German electric SUVs like the BMW iX3 or Mercedes EQC.
Q: What is the range and charging capability of the Lexus RZ?
The Lexus RZ delivers between 450-500 km of range depending on the variant, with the 74.6 kWh battery in the 500e models and 76.9 kWh in the 550e F Sport providing decent touring capability for South African conditions.
Q: Does the Lexus RZ come with a spare wheel?
No, the Lexus RZ does not include a spare wheel, which could be a concern for South African buyers who frequently travel on gravel roads or remote areas where tyre repairs might be challenging.
Q: Which Lexus RZ variant should I choose?
The RZ 500e SE at R 1,799,000 offers the best balance of features including heated seats, panoramic sunroof, and Mark Levinson audio, while the F Sport's yoke steering and extra power justify the R 1,938,600 price for tech enthusiasts.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, the 2026 Lexus RZ is worth buying if you want a premium electric SUV under R 2 million in South Africa. The entry-level 500e EX at R 1,649,400 undercuts most German rivals while offering standard all-wheel drive, 280 kW of power, and Lexus build quality. The sweet spot is the 500e SE at R 1,799,000, which adds all the luxury features you actually need without the yoke steering gimmick. Just budget for a tyre repair kit since there is no spare wheel, and you will have one of the most capable electric SUVs money can buy in SA right now.
