2023 RZ EV: Lexus Continues Luxury Tradition

author: FutureCar Staff    

Over the past few years, downtown Los Angeles has been difficult to see clearly due to smog and weather conditions. Even during my recent visit to Griffith Park in a new 2023 Lexus RZ 450e, the first fully-electric model from Lexus, the skyline remained hazy. Disappointed, I left without getting out of the car.

Although air quality in L.A. has improved since the 1990s, southern California still has some of the worst air quality in the country. There is still a long way to go before clear days outnumber hazy ones. The hope is that the electrification revolution and advancements in battery construction will help improve air quality and visibility. Can the new Lexus SUV contribute to this future?

Lexus has not made any drastic changes to the exterior design of the RZ, and this turned out to be a wise decision. The driving experience of the RZ feels completely natural, which is a departure from the perception that electric vehicles are radically different from traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. The RZ can be seen as a gateway electric vehicle for loyal Lexus customers.

Although you can feel the power of the electric motor when you press the pedal, there is a slight delay before the full torque of the dual-motor all-wheel-drive system kicks in. The RZ can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 4.8 seconds, thanks to its 308 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque.

During my two-day test drive, I traveled from Santa Barbara to L.A. and then explored the city for a few hours. The RZ proved to be luxurious, easy to drive, and capable. It handles corners well, considering its weight, and the suspension setup and dampers provide a comfortable ride. Road bumps and textures are softened by the suspension.

The real-world range of the RZ aligns with the estimates provided by Lexus. The 71.4-kWh lithium-ion battery pack is rated by the EPA to offer 220 miles of range on standard 18-inch wheels. Upgrading to 20-inch rims reduces the range to 196 miles. To charge the RZ, a home charger is recommended, and Lexus provides dedicated staff to assist with installation. On a 150-kW charger, the RZ can reach 80% charge in 30 minutes.

The braking experience in the RZ is similar to that of a traditional gasoline-powered crossover. The regenerative braking is not as noticeable, and there is no one-pedal driving feature. However, this may not be a concern for those who prefer traditional braking methods.

The interior of the RZ is luxurious and comfortable, as expected from a Lexus. The reductive design creates an airy and spacious feeling, and the seats provide support and comfort. The 14-inch infotainment touchscreen dominates the dashboard and offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Luxury model includes a Mark Levinson Surround Sound system and ambient interior lighting.

The RZ comes with a suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. These features inspire confidence, especially during highway drives and in heavy traffic. The cargo space of the RZ is ample, with 34.9 cubic feet of space.

To address range anxiety, Lexus offers an interesting perk for RZ buyers. They receive 30 complimentary days of gas-powered loan vehicles for the first three years of ownership. This allows for longer road trips without worrying about charging infrastructure.

In conclusion, the Lexus RZ makes a compelling case for transitioning to electric vehicles. However, the journey towards clean air and clear skies is not solely dependent on the vehicle itself.

FutureCar Staff