Lexus RZ 450e – Electric Car Review

Overview – Lexus RZ 450e

The 2023 Lexus RZ 450e is the first all-electric vehicle from Toyota’s luxury brand. The Lexus RZ450e is a stylish, luxury EV that is entering the market in 2023. It is based on a platform shared with the Toyota bZ4X and the Subaru Solterra and has a posher cabin with a large 14.0-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The dual-motor powertrain is good for 308 horsepower and provides standard all-wheel drive. The RZ is also equipped with a steer-by-wire system and has the option of a yoke-style steering wheel.

It is similar in size to the Toyota Venza hybrid SUV and is powered by a 71.4-kilowatt-hour battery. Pricing begins at $58,500 and the estimated driving range is 196 to 220 miles.

Lexus RZ 450e0 – Energy And Carbon Efficiency

The Lexus RZ 450e has higher carbon emissions than most other electric vehicles on the market. With 128 gCO2/mi, it emits 20 gCO2/mi more than the Ford Mustang Mach-E SR AWD and 24 gCO2/mi more than the similar-in-class BMW i7 xDrive60.

The Lexus RZ 450e also emits 36 gCO2/mi more than the Volkswagen ID5 and 44 gCO2/mi more than the Hyundai IONIQ 6. The Jaguar I-Pace EV400 also has lower emissions than the Lexus RZ 450e, by 16 gCO2/mi. Overall, the Lexus RX 450e has higher carbon emissions than most other electric vehicles on the market and is not as efficient as some of its competitors.

EV Engine, Power and Performance

The RZ450e is equipped with an electric powertrain called Direct4, which is a dual-motor setup that provides 308 horsepower. The steer-by-wire system takes some getting used to, but is beneficial for handling.

The 2023 Lexus RZ 450e has a 71.4-kilowatt-hour battery and 313 horsepower from its front and rear electric motors. It offers all-wheel drive, is estimated to reach 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, but has a disappointingly short estimated driving range of only 196 to 220 miles. This range is notably behind some of its key competitors, such as the Audi Q4 E-Tron, Genesis GV60, and Tesla Model Y.

Interior Comfort and Cargo Dimensions

The RZ features a minimalist approach to its interior design, with most controls being operated through the touchscreen display. The cabin is spacious and upscale, with most surfaces wrapped with faux suede or synthetic leather. It also has a panoramic sunroof, a Mark Levinson stereo system and multi-colored ambient interior lighting.

It is sized like the Toyota Venza hybrid SUV and is roomy enough to fit five passengers.

Infotainment, Tech and Connectivity

The RZ450e comes with a large 14.0-inch touchscreen infotainment display and a digital gauge display, as well as a head-up display. It also has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, both with wireless connectivity capabilities, as well as a suite of safety features.

Safety Features

The RZ comes with a full suite of standard driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and automated emergency braking. Additional features will be optional, including an automated parking feature.

Warranty Information

Lexus provides a competitive limited warranty and an even better powertrain warranty. The automaker also includes a short period of complimentary scheduled maintenance. The limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles, while the powertrain warranty covers six years or 70,000 miles. Hybrid components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles. Complimentary maintenance is covered for one year or 10,000 miles.

Final Thoughts

The Lexus RZ450e is a stylish EV that offers a more upscale interior and exterior compared to its Toyota and Subaru counterparts. It has a dual-motor powertrain that provides 308 horsepower and all-wheel drive as standard. It also has a competitive limited and powertrain warranty, and a short period of complimentary scheduled maintenance.

The 2023 Lexus RZ 450e is a great vehicle for luxury car shoppers, but its meager range and somewhat outdated EV technology may disappoint. Its pricing begins at $58,500 and it offers a comfortable interior with plenty of cargo space. It also has a suite of safety features and the latest infotainment and tech features.

Technical Specifications

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