2023 Lexus RZ 450e Premium

The Lexus RZ 450e compact SUV, the automaker's first EV, has a lot to recommend it. First and foremost, it upholds the Lexus reputation for comfort and luxury. Based on the Toyota bZ4X/Subaru Solterra platform, its stylish sheet metal features an aggressive headlamp design, a floating roof motif, and a subtle spoiler. The minimalist interior is similarly luxe, with a digital instrument cluster, a 14.0-inch infotainment touch screen (with good resolution), synthetic leather/suede upholstery, and a huge panoramic sunroof (no built-in shade, alas). Lexus's complete suite of advanced safety features is among the best in the industry. All—wheel drive is standard. The 450e is pretty swift off the line, and its brakes haul it to a stop quickly. But its forte is its quiet, comfortable cabin—replete with plush, supportive seats and plenty of headroom and legroom for all passengers—and luxurious ride. The 450e has just a few weak points, but one is a real doozy: a max EPA-estimated range of just 220 miles. Given the 450e's near-$60K base price, you’ve gotta ask: What was Lexus thinking? Other negatives include confusing steering-wheel controls; an nonintuitive infotainment system (a perennial Lexus bugaboo); a lack of buttons and hard keys for HVAC and infotainment controls; no 1-pedal regenerative braking; light, disconnected steering; and a blind spot at the rear roof pillars.