Lexus RZ 450e Review: Luxury, Well-equipped, yet Pricey Electric Vehicle
The latest offering from Lexus, the RZ 450e, has been making waves in the electric vehicle market with its comfortable ride, premium features, and distinctive design. The first bespoke EV from Lexus stands out for its bold styling, refined driving experience, and abundance of standard equipment that caters to the brand’s loyal followers.
Despite its strong points, the Lexus RZ 450e falls short in certain areas such as charging speeds, infotainment system performance, and its relatively high price tag compared to its Toyota bZ4X counterpart, which comes at a £15,000 lower price point. The innovative yoke steering feature, set to be available in 2025, adds a futuristic touch but may require a learning curve that outweighs its immediate benefits, especially in a luxury SUV setting.
During a test drive through picturesque rural France, featuring varied road conditions, it became evident that the Lexus RZ 450e offers a unique driving experience. The model comes with a price starting at £57,895, powered by a 71.4 kWh battery pack promising a range of up to 271 miles and an impressive efficiency rate of 4.0 miles per kWh during testing. With a total power output of 309 bhp and a brisk acceleration rate of 62 mph in 5.3 seconds, the RZ delivers on performance expectations.
Inside, the Lexus RZ 450e boasts a familiar yet attractive cabin design typical of Lexus, with user-friendly physical controls, a responsive 14-inch display featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and innovative features like radiant heaters for knee warmth. The standout panoramic glass roof and optional 1,800-watt Mark Levinson stereo system further enhance the luxury feel of the interior.
The model also offers a range of tech-savvy features, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, physical dials for climate control, convenient connectivity options like USB-C ports and wireless charging, and advanced safety systems like a 360-degree camera and automated door opening prevention. The Lexus RZ is positioned as a premium choice with a starting price of £57,895 and various trim levels, including the range-topping Takumi priced from £65,595.
When it comes to charging, the Lexus RZ 450e can reach a maximum rate of 150 kW, allowing for a swift charge from empty to 80% in approximately 30 minutes when connected to a compatible charger. While the model offers a warranty on the battery and converter for eight years or 100,000 miles, concerns about the overall running costs and value proposition compared to its competitors remain.
In summary, the Lexus RZ 450e presents a blend of luxury, performance, and innovative features, making it a compelling choice for EV enthusiasts willing to invest in a premium driving experience. However, with considerations around pricing, charging infrastructure, and future developments like the ‘One Motion Grip’ steering, potential buyers may weigh their options carefully before making a purchase decision.