The Lexus RZ
The Lexus RZ is a unique addition to the electric vehicle market, with its distinctive design and impressive features. As Lexus's first-ever electric car built from the ground up, it's a significant step forward for the brand. In this blog post, we'll delve into the details of the Lexus RZ, exploring its design, performance, and how it compares to its competitors.
Design and Aesthetics
The Lexus RZ boasts a sleek and modern design, with a full-length light bar at the rear and a distinctive Lexus badge. The car's profile is accentuated by sharp creases, giving it a dynamic and sporty appearance. The front of the car features a spindly-shaped grille, a nod to other Lexus models, but with a twist to accommodate the electric vehicle design.
However, the car does have some fake vents, which might not appeal to everyone. The wheel sizes start at 18 inches, but the 20-inch wheels give the car a more balanced look. The car also offers a two-tone paint option for those who want to add a personal touch.
Interior and Comfort
The interior of the Lexus RZ is as impressive as its exterior. The driver's pod feels futuristic and blends seamlessly with the rest of the dashboard. The materials used in the interior are of high quality, with a velvety feel to the steering wheel and seats.
The car features a large infotainment screen, but Lexus has wisely kept key controls such as fan temperature setting and controls for the heated seats and steering wheel visible and directly accessible. The infotainment system is responsive and easy to navigate, although Android Auto requires a wired connection.
The digital driver's display is a bit on the small side, but it provides a decent amount of information. The seats are quite close to the floor, which might affect under-thigh support, but the driving position is generally comfortable.
Performance and Driving Experience
The Lexus RZ comes with two electric motors, one on the front axle and one on the rear axle, providing four-wheel drive. The combined power output is 313 horsepower. The car has a 71 kilowatt-hour battery pack, which gives a claimed range of 272 miles.
The car can charge at 150 kilowatts at a DC rapid charger and up to 11 kilowatts on an AC charger. However, the real-world range is just over 170 miles, which is significantly less than the claimed range.
Despite this, the Lexus RZ handles well on the road. The steering is accurate, and the car doesn't lean much in the bends. The car is also equipped with a plethora of safety features, including a safe exit assist that prevents the door from opening if a cyclist or pedestrian is passing by.
Conclusion
The Lexus RZ is a strong contender in the electric SUV market. While its range might not be as impressive as some competitors, it offers a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. Its sleek design and high-quality interior make it a car worth considering. However, potential buyers should be aware of the car's limitations, such as the lack of a front boot and the need for a wired connection for Android Auto. Overall, the Lexus RZ is a car that you should definitely shortlist if you're considering an electric SUV.