2026 Lexus RZ 550eLexusThe RZ debuted in 2023 as Lexus's first globally available electric vehicle. The reception was mixed, however, particularly because of limited driving range and relatively slow charging. For 2026, Lexus has made substantial improvements, introducing more powerful motors, a larger battery, improved charging capability and the new performance-oriented F Sport. But it's still not fast enough, and its range is still not-great.Still, it's the most powerful version of Lexus's all-electric luxury crossover, combining the brand's familiar comfort and refinement with decent acceleration and a few surprises.Charging test vehicleLooksThe RZ has angular bodywork, sharply sculpted sides, a low, sloping roofline and Lexus's signature spindle-inspired front-end treatment. The F Sport adds black exterior accents, aggressive-looking 20-inch wheels and sporty detailing. It's handsome, futuristic and immediately recognizable as a Lexus.Power, and priceTwo electric motors drive all four wheels and produce a combined 402 horsepower. You'll get from zero to 60 mph in approximately 4.1 seconds.2026 Lexus RZ 550eIts 76.96-kWh battery provides an EPA-estimated 229 miles of range, hardly extraordinary by today's electric vehicle standards. But the RZ also features a Tesla-style NACS charging port and can charge from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 30 minutes under favorable conditions at good old Tesla.For the purposes of this test, the car was charged in the back of a house, plugging into the same outlet as the washing machine. I got about 25 miles out of an overnight charge, more than enough to get me through the business of the day, and I was able to keep the vehicle more or less above 80%, which soothes one's range anxiety.2026 Lexus RZ 550eInside, the vehicle is more traditional, although it's loaded with technology. A 14-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard, while black Ultrasuede upholstery, blue contrast stitching and supportive F Sport seats felt snug and secure.Materials and assembly quality are generally excellent, and the cabin offers comfortable accommodations for five. However, the relatively small digital instrument display looks dated, and the absence of a conventional glove compartment is a peculiar omission in a nearly $60,000 luxury vehicle.Driving impressionsThe F Sport's strongest attribute is its effortless acceleration. Power arrives with the specially tuned suspension delivering a composed ride without sacrificing the comfort Lexus owners expect. It is pleasant, it is efficient but it's not particularly stirring.2026 Lexus RZ 550eThere's also an unusual feature called M Mode, which simulates an eight-speed manual transmission using steering wheel paddles and synthesized engine sounds. It's an entertaining novelty, although hardly necessary in an electric vehicle.The steering is light, the cabin is nice and quiet and the vehicle feels well suited to urban driving and highway cruising. Parking was an easy time of it.Room for improvementThe biggest objection remains range. At 229 EPA-estimated miles, the RZ falls behind several similarly priced competitors. Its maximum DC fast-charging rate of 150 kW also trails some rivals. The touchscreen requires too much attention for routine functions at times. Finally, my bike didn't fit in the back with the seats folded down. I turned and twisted and coaxed, but nope. For me, that's a deal-breaker.2026 Lexus RZ 550eConclusion - Lexus has produced a genuinely enjoyable electric crossover, although buyers who regularly travel long distances may find its limited range difficult to overlook.
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