Sunday Drive: 2025 Lexus RZ 300e Luxury is electrified elegance
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- A frontal view of the 2025 Lexus RZ 300e Luxury.
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- With the touch of a button, the sunroof in the 2025 Lexus RZ 300e Luxury can change from opaque to see-through.
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- A rear view of the 2025 Lexus RZ 300e Luxury.
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- A driver’s view in the 2025 Lexus RZ 300e Luxury.
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- The interior of the 2025 Lexus RZ 300e Luxury.
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- A rear view of the 2025 Lexus RZ 300e Luxury.
The 2025 Lexus RZ 300e Luxury represents Lexus’ first foray into the all-electric SUV market, blending the brand’s hallmark of luxury with electrical innovation. Over the course of our test week, we integrated the RZ 300e into our daily routines around Utah Valley, getting used to its performance, comfort and efficiency in real-world conditions.
First impressions and design
The RZ 300e Luxury came with a modern look that aligned with Lexus’ design philosophy. Its sleek lines and aerodynamic profile not only enhanced its visual appeal but also contributed to its all-electric efficiency. The signature spindle grille, now reimagined for the electric platform, seamlessly blended into the front fascia, giving the SUV a distinctive yet familiar “Lexus” look.
Getting inside the cabin, we were greeted by Lexus’ commitment to luxury and craftsmanship. High-quality materials, meticulous attention to detail and a minimalist design created an inviting environment. Throughout the week, the layout proved to be very intuitive, with controls and interfaces thoughtfully positioned for ease of use.
Performance and driving experience
Equipped with a 150-kilowatt (204 horsepower) electric motor driving the front wheels, the RZ 300e delivered an extremely smooth and responsive driving experience. The immediate torque characteristic of electric vehicles ensured we always had brisk acceleration, making merging onto highways and overtaking slower traffic virtually effortless. The single-speed transmission further enhanced the seamless power delivery, contributing to the unique electric driving experience.
During our weeklong test, we navigated a variety of terrains and driving conditions typical of Utah Valley. The RZ 300e handled city traffic with poise, offering a quiet and comfortable ride. On winding country roads, the SUV’s balanced chassis and precise steering provided confidence-inspired control, although it became clear that the RZ has prioritized comfort over sporty handling.
Interior comfort and amenities
The interior of the RZ 300e Luxury was a sanctuary of comfort. The front seats were supportive and came with heating and ventilation functions, ensuring comfort in both wintery days we navigated through and would be perfect for the summer heat. Rear passengers were not overlooked, with ample legroom and headroom making long journeys pleasant for all occupants.
Lexus had equipped the RZ 300e with a suite of amenities designed to enhance the driving experience. The ambient interior lighting created a soothing atmosphere, especially during nighttime drives. The infotainment system was very user friendly, featuring a responsive touch screen with crisp graphics. Connectivity features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, allowing seamless integration of our smartphones.
Charging and efficiency
One of the critical aspects of owning an electric vehicle is understanding its efficiency and the associated charging costs. Throughout our week with the RZ 300e, we only charged the vehicle at home, where our electricity rate is $0.11 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). We observed an average consumption rate of 2.8 miles per kWh. This, of course, would change at a public charging facility, where rates can get as high as $0.56 per kWh.
To calculate the cost per mile:
- Electricity cost per mile: (at home) $0.11 per kWh ÷ 2.8 miles per kWh ≈ $0.039 per mile; (public chargers) $0.50 per kWh ÷ 2.8 miles per kWh ≈ $0.1785 per mile
For a typical 250-mile week, the charging cost would be:
- Weekly charging cost: (at home) 250 miles – $0.039 per mile = $9.75; (public chargers) 250 miles – $0.1785 per mile = $44.62
This calculation highlights the cost effectiveness of operating the RZ 300e when charging at home compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. However, when charging at a public charger, the cost is pretty much the same as a gasoline-powered vehicle. Having a home charger like we do is essential when owning an all-electric or even a plug-in hybrid vehicle.
Charging infrastructure and convenience
Charging the RZ 300e at home was a straightforward process. Using the standard Level 2 home charger, we were able to replenish the battery easily overnight, ensuring a full charge each morning for whatever we had in mind for the day.
For those without access to home charging, Utah Valley now offers a growing network of public charging stations, including DC fast chargers that can significantly reduce charging times. However, using these types of chargers will take more planning and time than just hitting the local convenience store for some gas and a drink.
Safety and driver assistance features
Lexus had integrated a comprehensive suite of safety features into the RZ 300e. The Lexus Safety System+ included adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist and a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection. These systems worked seamlessly together during our drives, enhancing safety without being overly intrusive.
At the end of the week
The 2025 Lexus RZ 300e Luxury successfully marries the brand’s luxury pedigree with the benefits of electric mobility. Its elegant design, comfortable interior and efficient performance make it a compelling choice for those seeking an upscale electric SUV.
Our experience driving around Utah Valley demonstrated that the RZ 300e is well-suited for daily commuting and weekend adventures alike. With the added advantage of lower operating costs, it presents a strong case for consumers considering the transition to electric driving without compromising on luxury or comfort.
Base price: $59,730
Destination charge: $1,150
Price as driven: $64,305
