The Lexus RZ 450e Comfort Line has no leather, but it does have color – Back to Basics

Lexus RZ 450e Comfort Line – €61,995

To be fair, for the first serious EV attempt from a leading brand like Lexus, the RZ is simply disappointing in a number of areas. Its battery capacity of 71.4 kWh is not impressive and the same logically applies to the driving range. Basic version Comfort performs the best of all RZs due to its smaller wheels, and on paper can travel 440 kilometers until the power runs out. For comparison: a richly equipped President Line can only travel 404 kilometers under the same ideal conditions, partly due to 20-inch wheels. Two other versions fill the €11,000 gap between this top version and the entry-level, but they all have the same drivetrain for the time being. With 313 hp and all-wheel drive, the RZ450e offers good performance, although there are certainly faster EVs for the money. A less fast, front-wheel drive RZ 300e is on its way, but is not yet on the price list.

Even without the 300e, the RZ is considerably cheaper than last year. The starting price dropped by €5,500 starting this year, so you can already take advantage of that profit. As usual, a Comfort Line is available for the basic amount. You can pick it out quite easily on the outside, because the entry-level RZ is the only version without roof rails and without extra dark rear windows. There is a lot to choose from when it comes to color, because Lexus only asks extra money for the striking ‘Sonic Copper’. All other shades – that word fits better than ‘colours’ – are included. Wheels are shared with the Executive Line and in terms of lighting we see no differences with the more luxurious variant.

14-inch screen

These differences become clear when you open any door. In the case of the tailgate, this is because the Comfort Line does not open electrically, while after opening a regular door it becomes clear that the Comfort Line has to do without leather upholstery. An anthracite fabric is yours, on manually adjustable front seats too. Fortunately, the seats are heated, but that does not apply to the steering wheel. For extra comfort, there is automatic climate control, neatly with two zones. Every RZ also has a wireless phone charger, a very nice audio system with 10 speakers, keyless entry, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, a reversing camera and an infotainment screen with a diameter of no less than 14 inches. You actually have nothing to complain about on board such a basic RZ, but it is still worth considering going the extra mile. Such an Executive Line costs €3,000 extra, an amount that is certainly justifiable for the appearance mentioned, artificial leather, electrically adjustable seats, steering wheel heating and mood lighting.