Lexus RZ 450e
Auto Express|May 10, 2023
FIRST DRIVE Premium brand branches out with a rival for the Tesla Model Y
Sean Carson
Lexus RZ 450e

WE’VE waited a long time for Lexus to offer a big, bespoke premium EV and we'll have to wait a little longer for the full effect, because the RZ with drive-by-wire steering and a yoke-style steering wheel won’t arrive until next year at the earliest. But the version with conventional steering is here now, so has playing the waiting game worked? How does it compare with rivals such as the BMW iX3 and Tesla Model Y?

Well, the cabin is certainly as premium-feeling and as well built as you’d expect of any Lexus with a 64,500 price tag our car is a base-spec RZ 450e Premium Pack).

Inheriting the infotainment from its NX and RX siblings, the RZ’s tech is strong too. Its 14-inch screen offers bright graphics and lots of features. However, the digital dash could be a little more sophisticated, and you might find the constant binging and bonging from the various systems infuriating.

Once you’ve turned this off, the cabin is so quiet that you'll be incredibly relaxed on the move and the ride matches this. With 18-inch wheels, the RZ’s e-TNGA platform and suspension soak up bumps and control the body over rolling undulations fairly well.

هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة May 10, 2023 من Auto Express.

ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.

هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة May 10, 2023 من Auto Express.

ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.

المزيد من القصص من AUTO EXPRESS مشاهدة الكل
BEST SPORTS CAR 4X4s
Auto Express

BEST SPORTS CAR 4X4s

Banish the winter blues with these 4WD stunners guaranteed to put a huge smile on your face and keep you on the move

time-read
6 mins  |
October 23, 2024
BEST USED CARS FOR SNOW
Auto Express

BEST USED CARS FOR SNOW

If you need a vehicle for snowy conditions but don't have the budget to run to a new one, there are plenty of excellent second-hand choices out there

time-read
6 mins  |
October 23, 2024
HOW TO DRIVE IN SNOW
Auto Express

HOW TO DRIVE IN SNOW

Heavy snow presents unique challenges. You don't have to be a wizard in a blizzard, but it's worth following some simple rules

time-read
2 mins  |
October 23, 2024
WHAT IS AQUAPLANING AND HOW TO AVOID IT
Auto Express

WHAT IS AQUAPLANING AND HOW TO AVOID IT

Aquaplaning is a frightening experience, but following our top tips can cut the risk of it happening to you

time-read
3 mins  |
October 23, 2024
HOW TO DRIVE ON ICE
Auto Express

HOW TO DRIVE ON ICE

When the roads get really slippery, it's vital to know how to react. Here's what you need to know

time-read
4 mins  |
October 23, 2024
HOW TO DRIVE IN FLOOD WATER
Auto Express

HOW TO DRIVE IN FLOOD WATER

Heavy rain anb beep floob water can be hazarbous if motorists bon't take the right precautions. Here's how to brive safely in sobben conbitions

time-read
2 mins  |
October 23, 2024
SMART #1
Auto Express

SMART #1

Life with the first car from the reborn Smart brand has been a bit hit and miss so far

time-read
3 mins  |
October 23, 2024
DIFFERENT STROKES
Auto Express

DIFFERENT STROKES

The new Toyota Prius is a PHEV, while Mazda's MX-30 R-EV is a rotary-engined range extender. Which takes charge here?

time-read
10+ mins  |
October 23, 2024
Porsche Panamer a GTS
Auto Express

Porsche Panamer a GTS

FIRST DRIVE The latest luxury flagship might fly in the face of Porsche's electrified future, but it's a terrific performer

time-read
3 mins  |
October 23, 2024
Omoda E5
Auto Express

Omoda E5

FIRST DRIVE It's no class leader, but the all-electric E5 proves beyond doubt that Omoda is going to be a brand to watch

time-read
4 mins  |
October 23, 2024