Review of the Lexus RZ

The 2024 Lexus RZ is a premium electric SUV with a unique design and interior quality. Its design includes Lexus' signature 'spindle' grille and has a dramatic look, positioning it between the NX and RX in size.

Rivals to the Lexus RZ include the Audi Q4 E-Tron and Tesla Model Y.

Our Lexus RZ review covers:

• Distinct exterior design with Lexus' 'spindle' grille and dramatic surfacing
• Spacious and well-designed interior with sharp lines and high levels of kit
• 522-litre boot, expanding to 1,451 litres with rear seats down
• Equipped with a twin-motor setup offering a range of up to 271 miles
• Four trim levels are available: Premium, Premium Plus, Premium Plus BI-TONE and Takumi

Pros:

• Stylish and modern design
• Refined driving experience
• Responsive steer-by-wire system

Cons:

• Expensive 
• Poor rear visibility 
• Not as efficient as rivals

The new Lexus RZ cuts a bold figure on the road, boasting a striking silhouette that's unmistakably Lexus. Sharp creases and dramatic angles give it a dynamic presence, while the plunging roofline and muscular haunches hint at its electric agility. The signature spindle grille is reimagined for the EV era, housing charging ports instead of an engine, further underlining the RZ's futuristic credentials.

Step inside, and you're greeted by a haven of spacious comfort. The lack of a transmission tunnel maximizes legroom for all passengers, with ample headroom even for taller folks. The cabin exudes a sense of refined luxury, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. Lexus' trademark attention to ergonomics ensures everything is within easy reach, making for a relaxing and intuitive driving experience.

The Lexus RZ's has a boot capacity of 522 litres, which is slightly more than the BMW iX3 and Mercedes EQC, yet it falls short of the Tesla Model Y's significantly larger 854-litre space. Unlike the Tesla, the RZ doesn't offer additional storage under the bonnet. When the rear seats are folded down, accessing the release buttons can be somewhat cumbersome, but this action yields a flat, extended space of 1,451 litres, which is quite practical for loading larger items.

The new Lexus RZ's interior is a masterclass with luxurious comfort and intuitive technology. It's a driver-centric space that feels both spacious and cocooning, with every detail meticulously crafted for a premium experience.

The RZ's interior boasts a pod-like layout, with the main controls angled towards the driver for easy access. This creates a sense of command and control while still ensuring comfort for passengers. High-quality materials like soft-touch plastics, faux leather, and suede abound, elevating the cabin's ambience. The RZ is far from the scratchy plastics of some rivals, offering a truly luxurious feel. The massive 14-inch central touchscreen is bright with a high-resolution display and intuitive interface, making it a joy to use when stationary. However, some deeper menu options can be tricky to navigate on the move, so be mindful while driving.

The RZ is packed with cutting-edge technology to keep you informed and entertained. The digital instrument cluster displays all the essential driving information clearly, while the head-up display projects key data onto the windshield for a distraction-free experience. The Mark Levinson sound system delivers an immersive audio experience, making even the longest journeys a pleasure. Climate control is separate from the main infotainment system, with dedicated dials and buttons for easy adjustments on the move. This is a welcome departure from some rivals that force you to delve into menus while driving.

Overall, the Lexus RZ's interior is a triumph of design and technology. It's a luxurious and spacious haven that makes every journey feel special. Whether you're behind the wheel or relaxing in the back, the RZ is a true first-class experience.

Four trim levels are available: Premium, Premium Plus, Premium Plus BI-TONE and Takumi.

The Premium model includes the Lexus Safety System, an electronic climate control system, a 14-inch touchscreen, Lexus Link Pro, and 18-inch machined-finish alloy wheels with 235/60 tires. 

The Premium Plus variant adds features such as memory settings for the driving position (including seat, steering wheel, and door mirrors) for three users, a radiation heater for the front seats, ventilated front seats, a digital panoramic view monitor (PVM), and a head-up display.

The Premium Plus BI-TONE version further enhances the offering with an electric lift and close tailgate, along with 20-inch machined-finish alloy wheels sized at 235/50. 

The Takumi level upgrades include a front performance damper, a rear performance damper, multi-colour ambient lighting, a dimmable panoramic glass sunroof, and a 13-speaker Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound System.

Each RZ model comes equipped with a 71.4kWh battery pack and a dual-motor configuration. The range varies based on the choice of wheel size. Opting for the 18-inch wheels, which offer a smoother ride, will yield around 272 miles per full charge, while the more aesthetically pleasing but slightly less efficient 20-inch wheels provide approximately 252 miles per charge.

Due to their larger and more angular design, electric SUVs like the RZ typically have lower efficiency. Achieving an average above 3.5 miles per kWh is necessary to attain these range figures. In our testing, the RZ achieved about 2.5 miles per kWh, translating to a real-world range of around 180 miles. However, in urban driving conditions, it's possible to achieve a range closer to the official estimates.

The battery technology in the Lexus RZ is a standout feature, offering a significant range on a single charge. This makes the vehicle ideal for extended trips, reducing the need for frequent charging stops and increasing its practicality for daily use.

Additionally, the RZ's design prioritizes stability and control. This ensures that its powerful performance is balanced with a safe and comfortable driving experience. Sophisticated power distribution systems in the vehicle help maintain optimal balance and traction, aligning with Lexus's commitment to high-quality engineering and driver satisfaction.

£54,714.00*, or it can be leased with monthly payments starting from £447.22.

If you're considering leasing a Lexus RZ, we proudly offer excellent car leasing services in the UK. Our leasing deals include a manufacturer's warranty, road tax, breakdown insurance, and free delivery to most areas of the UK mainland (excluding specific regions).

Leasing a Lexus RZ can often be a more financially advantageous option compared to purchasing outright, thanks to the fixed monthly payments, variable mileage options, low initial rental, and flexible contract durations.

It's important to note that the 'on-the-road' price mentioned includes a year's road fund license, DVLA first registration fee, and a number plate fee. Please be aware that this price is accurate at the time of publication and is subject to change. To get the most up-to-date information, we recommend contacting your nearest retailer.