CAN YOU HANDLE THE YOKE? THE 2023 LEXUS RZ 450E IS AN ELECTRIC RX WITH A TWIST!

EV Channels Review

The 2023 Lexus RZ 450e marks Lexus's first all-electric offering, aiming to blend familiar Lexus comfort with EV performance. The vehicle impresses with its quick acceleration, boasting 313 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 5 seconds, thanks to its standard dual-motor AWD system. The ride quality is noted as refined and comfortable, though not quite reaching the benchmark set by the Lexus RX. A significant talking point is the optional steer-by-wire yoke steering system, which offers a variable ratio that eliminates hand-over-hand maneuvers, though it requires a significant adjustment period. The primary drawback identified is the limited range, with EPA estimates of 220 miles for the 18-inch wheels and 196 miles for the 20-inch wheels, placing it behind many competitors. Lexus attempts to mitigate range anxiety with a complimentary loaner vehicle program for the first three years of ownership. Overall, the RZ 450e is praised for making the EV transition seamless for existing Lexus customers, retaining a traditional Lexus feel while offering EV benefits, but its range is a notable compromise.