There are important decisions to make when purchasing the 2026 Lexus RZ, a compact all-electric SUV that can be mistaken for a hatchback.
If mileage range and cost (around $47,400) are the primary concerns, then the entry-level RZ 350e is the way to go. If those two areas aren’t major factors and performance is high on the priority list, the choice should be the top-tier 550e F Sport, which goes for about $58,400.
Overall, there are six trim levels for the luxury SUV: 350e, 350e Premium, 450e, 450e Premium, 450e Luxury, 550e F Sport. Power outputs and range fluctuate by trim.
The attractive 550e F Sport is a new addition to the RZ lineup, one of several items in a mild refresh of the original SUV that was introduced in 2023. Other changes include larger batteries, access to Tesla Superchargers without using an adapter, faster charging times, and improved range.
However, range is still an issue and remains one of the negatives regarding the RZ. The 350e goes an estimated 301 miles between charges, while the 550e range is a meager 229. The 350e has a 74.7-kWh battery that charges 10% to 80% in 30 minutes. The 550e is the only model with a 77-kWh battery and goes from 10% to 80% in approximately 26 minutes.
Currently, the 300-mile range is a minimal comfort point for many EV drivers. Anything less leaves many owners anxious regarding frequent monitoring and the need to recharge. Three 2026 luxury SUVs (Cadillac Escalade IQ, Lucid Gravity, Rivian R1S) possess 400-plus-mile range.
The RZ is a bigger version of the Lexus NX yet not as large as the RX. Neither the gas-powered NX or RX offer an all-electric version, but do have plug-in hybrids. Thus far, RZ sales have been modest, reaching a high of 9,697 in 2024 and last year hitting 7,814.
The front-wheel drive 350e has a single motor that produces 221 horsepower and 198 pound-feet of torque. It goes a modest 0 to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds. The muscular all-wheel drive 550e F Sport has dual motors that yield 402 horsepower and 397 pound-feet of torque. It is roughly 3 seconds faster than the base model, traveling 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds.
AT A GLANCE – 2026 LEXUS RZ
• Performance: ranges from a single motor, 221 horsepower to dual motors with 402 horsepower
• Mileage estimate: 115-136 MPGe; 88-102 MPGe
• Price estimate: $47,400 to $58,400
• Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles; Drivetrain: 6 years/70,000 miles; Roadside Assistance: 4 years/unlimited; Corrosion: 6 years/unlimited; Battery: 10 years/150,000 miles
Driving any version of the Lexus RZ is fun, offering outstanding stability and a smooth ride. Due to a heavy battery that sits low to the ground, the SUV can hustle through corners and quietly cruises along. It has four levels of regenerative braking that can be adjusted using the steering wheel paddles. But it doesn’t offer one-pedal driving.
Standard driver safety features include pre-collision system; blind spot monitor; lane keep assist; proactive driving assist; radar cruise control; and safe exit assist.
The interior features a large 14-inch touchscreen with menus that are intuitive and don’t require a lengthy time to master. There’s also a 7-inch digital gauge cluster and the voice commands (hey Lexus) are a big help if there are questions that need immediate answers.
The RZ provides seating for five and every passenger will receive generous legroom and headroom. Many compact SUVs lack adequate space in the back seats, but not the RZ, where adults will have no issues on long trips. The cargo area is sizable as well – 34.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 56 cubic feet with the second row folded to the floor.
We applaud the company for the improvements to the 2026 Lexus RZ. It is reasonably priced for a luxury electric car and delivers in a lot of areas. However, the overall range continues to be an area that needs improvement.
Jeffrey Weidel is an award-winning journalist from the Sacramento region who has written automotive reviews for nearly three decades and now appears in Folsom Times. He can be reached at skiweidel@gmail.com.
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