The 2022 Lucid Air Is the Best and Worst Car We've Ever Had

Thousands of miles behind the wheel of our long-term 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance made me appreciate how multitalented this machine is.

- ZACH GALE

The Air is so much more than trans- portation; it’s something special. Daily driving MotorTrend’s 2022 Car of the Year is an experience that excites me to my core. When everything works, that is.  

There was a lot to like about our Air. I'd remark frequently how incredible it is that a single vehicle can offer more than 1,000 horsepower yet still be one of the most efficient cars available today, with more range than any other EV on the market. Plus, Lucid achieves these stats while also delivering a luxurious cabin and entertaining driving dynamics. Especially with the Grand Touring Performance trim, you learn quickly this is a premium sport sedan. The ride isn’t Mercedes smooth, but we know which car we'd rather drive on a winding road.

The Lucid isn’t a one-dimensional sport sedan, though. Road trips remind you how useful the Air's frunk and trunk can be. Wide-opening rear doors were another highlight, proving how even aspirational cars can be practical. Simple up/down toggle switches on the dash for temperature and airflow flank a roller for volume—physical controls I appreciate, considering the way some automakers prioritize form over function.