2023 RZ EV: Lexus Continues Luxury Legacy

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【Summary】The 2023 Lexus RZ EV is a luxury SUV that provides a natural driving experience and good acceleration. It has a range of 220 miles on standard wheels and can charge up to 80% in 30 minutes on a 150-kW charger. The interior is posh and spacious, with a large touchscreen and driver aids. Lexus offers 30 complimentary days of gas-powered loan vehicles for longer road trips. However, air quality and clear skies are still a challenge in Los Angeles.

FutureCar Staff Aug 25, 2023 6:18 AM PT

2023 RZ EV: Lexus Continues Luxury Legacy

Over the past few years, the downtown Los Angeles skyline has been perpetually blurred by a combination of smog and weather. Even with a new 2023 Lexus RZ 450e, the brand's first fully-electric model in the U.S., the hazy shade smothered the vista. Despite this, there is hope that the electrification revolution and improved battery efficiency will improve air quality and visibility in southern California.

The design of the Lexus RZ hasn't taken any drastic leaps, which turned out to be a good thing. The driving experience feels entirely natural, making it a great entry-level electric vehicle for Lexus loyalists. With a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, the RZ can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 4.8 seconds.

During a two-day test drive from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles, the RZ proved to be luxurious, easy to drive, and capable. The suspension setup and frequency reactive dampers provide a comfortable ride, absorbing most road bumps and textures.

The brakes on the RZ feel similar to those in a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle, with minimal regeneration. The 71.4-kWh lithium-ion battery pack provides an EPA-rated range of 220 miles on standard wheels, which can be charged to 80% in 30 minutes on a 150-kW charger.

The interior of the RZ is posh and comfortable, with supportive seats and a reductive design that creates an airy and spacious feeling. The 14-inch infotainment touchscreen dominates the dashboard and offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Driver aids, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, inspire confidence on the road.

To address range anxiety, Lexus offers RZ buyers 30 complimentary days of gas-powered loan vehicles for the first three years, allowing for longer road trips without worrying about charging infrastructure limitations.

All in all, the Lexus RZ makes a compelling case for transitioning to electric vehicles, although there is still a long way to go in achieving clean air and clear skies in Los Angeles.