2023 Lexus RZ | Talking Cars with Consumer Reports

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This week, we share our first impressions of the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e. The RZ is the first battery-electric vehicle from Lexus, sharing a platform with the Toyota bz4X. We discuss everything from styling, range, livability and if the RZ has enough EV traits that buyers are looking for. Plus, we answer an audience question about EV battery replacement costs.
SHOW NOTES:
0:00 - Intro
0:18 - 2023 Lexus RZ 450e
0:57 - Lexus/Toyota EVs
1:30 - Range/charging time
4:10 - Competing EVs in the same price range
4:30 - Safety technology
7:30 - Lexus buyer experience
8:15 - Driving impressions
10:15 - Climate features
11:00 - Lexus/Subaru/Toyota family of EVs
12:08 - Pedestrian safety features
14:11 - Visibility
15:27 - Driver display
16:10 - Lexus RZ pricing
17:13 - Steering yoke
18:33 - Question: How much should it cost to replace an EV battery?
-
LINKS:
All-New 2023 Lexus RZ 450e Is a Disappointing First EV Effort: www.consumerreports.org/cars/...
First Drive: 2023 Toyota bz4X EV Impresses on the Road: www.consumerreports.org/hybri...
2023 Subaru Solterra EV Charges to Production with Up to 228 Miles of Range: www.consumerreports.org/hybri...
How to Decide If a Hybrid, Plug-In Hybrid, or Fully Electric Car Is Right for You: www.consumerreports.org/cars/...
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Пікірлер: 59

  • @LukeToepfer
    @LukeToepfer Жыл бұрын

    The Leaf battery was passively cooled and not actively cooled like modern EVs. Which is leading to their batteries degrading much faster

  • @TheEnVious17
    @TheEnVious17 Жыл бұрын

    Oh new intro, I love it

  • @JS-yb7pr
    @JS-yb7pr Жыл бұрын

    New intro viz and music is a nice change. Feels made for the show

  • @DoorisJ
    @DoorisJ Жыл бұрын

    My friend just had his 2014 Ford Focus EV battery changed under warranty (barely)

  • @baldheadlogic
    @baldheadlogic Жыл бұрын

    Love this new intro music.

  • @buzman1985
    @buzman1985 Жыл бұрын

    Love the new intro. It’s also nice to have everyone back at the table.

  • @eastcoastreviews6870
    @eastcoastreviews6870 Жыл бұрын

    If there was a drinking game for when Gabe says “Uh”, I would be hammered.😂

  • @roguedogx
    @roguedogx Жыл бұрын

    19:25 While there's not a lot to back this up at the moment, I do believe that replacing a worn battery with a low power fuel cell might be an option in the relatively near future.

  • @TheLifetraveler1
    @TheLifetraveler1 Жыл бұрын

    I agree with Toyota? Wanted a hybrid sedan for my next car. But rented a Tesla model 3 from Hertz this weekend for a roundtrip from ATL to SAV, about 500 miles. Loved-blistering acceleration, excellent seats and handling. Hated having to stop in strange places (4 times driving down and 3 times coming back) for 20+ minutes as other Tesla drivers came in and out, to top it off for fear of dropping below 50% power. All the control in the screens and not being able to find cruise control (duh, it's the gear selector, I found out by accident), not sure if it was locked unless I saw the outside mirrors fold. Too much! Convinced me I would never buy an electric.

  • @Mabeylater293

    @Mabeylater293

    Жыл бұрын

    How often do you drive 300 miles per day?

  • @TheLifetraveler1

    @TheLifetraveler1

    Жыл бұрын

    @@path4061 one, I rented the model 3 for a short trip-254 miles each way. But while at those charging stations I met model 3 owners that were rolling from Florida to New York. Just the idea of having to stop for 20 minutes after 150 to 200 miles (I stopped more to have 50 percent minimum capacity) was more than I could deal with. Imagine stopping at a charging station at three in the morning with your family, every 200 plus miles, with no surrounding businesses open. My regular sedans both have gone 500 miles (which means driving through the night without having to stop) without needing a gas. Now let me say this again. I like the Tesla, I just wouldn't own one. Renting it for less than $60 a day was enough fun for me. I am going hybrid.

  • @mikerepairsstuff
    @mikerepairsstuff Жыл бұрын

    ❤ Thanks TC ❤. Q:Do car companies ever take into account the changes they make might make people with disabilities use of the vehicle so much more difficult? Thx. Talking Cars!”

  • @drivesanoldcar
    @drivesanoldcar Жыл бұрын

    I want the yoke for sure and finally!!!the screen isn't a tacked on iPad. like it in-dash. HUD 5 stars but herald the BMW across shield HUD...

  • @frankcoffey
    @frankcoffey Жыл бұрын

    I think battery replacements will get cheaper and even be upgrades to the latest battery type but governments will have to force automakers to allow aftermarket batteries. We have laws on to protect consumers of ICE cars but those may not be enough in the age of EVs. We have to make sure a carmakers can't refuse charging of aftermarket batteries or refuse to service other parts of a car that has been modified with a different brand battery. Automakers should also be required to supply the technical information and tools to third parties so aftermarket batteries can be installed and be safe.

  • @CourtneyThompsonPemberton
    @CourtneyThompsonPemberton Жыл бұрын

    Per wham bam tesla cam it does seem that people do tend to unplug chargers.

  • @robertehlers3757
    @robertehlers3757 Жыл бұрын

    As a long time and very satisfied customer of Lexus RXes, I am not interested in making the change to this RZ. Too many features that are standard or available on the RX are not obtainable on the RZ. And the range is ridiculously low. I'm surprised that Lexus/Toyota has not thought this through.

  • @toronado455
    @toronado455 Жыл бұрын

    I'm not trying to defend the RZ and BZ, but people need to think about range differently. When you drive a gas car, do you always leave your home with a full tank? If so, you can stop reading my comment now. Otherwise, think about it. How often do you fill your gas car's tank? Unless it's every day, at some point you're leaving home with less than the full range of your gas car. Let's say your gas car goes 300 miles on a full tank. Let's say you fill your tank on Sunday. Let's say you drive 75 miles each week day. When you get home Monday your gas car's range has dropped to 225. You leave home Tuesday driving a car with a 225 mile range. Does this worry you? Wednesday you leave home with a car with a 150 mile range and a tank that's half full. Does this bother you or give you range anxiety? At some point you'll become uncomfortable that your range is getting low and stop for gas. But usually when you drive a gas car with half a tank of gas you're not worried, right? Yet that gas car with half a tank only has a 150 mile range. When you drive an EV that you charge at home, every single time you leave home your car has its full range available. How often does that happen with a gas car?

  • @plneky1171
    @plneky1171 Жыл бұрын

    Another $60k+ EV, ho hum. Just another battery pack with 4-wheels, not exciting or desirable. I am a fan of Toyota hybrids and have owned three. Reliable, no range anxiety, and not overpriced.

  • @Mabeylater293
    @Mabeylater293 Жыл бұрын

    1:06 Correction Gabe, the truth about “THEIR” underperforming half-assed electric vehicles.

  • @kengreenberg
    @kengreenberg Жыл бұрын

    Replacing a 13-year old Leaf battery is akin to using recapped tires… a terrible idea.

  • @mikerepairsstuff
    @mikerepairsstuff Жыл бұрын

    Ahh radiant heat near the feet is something the entire world needs in a warming planet.

  • @Mark-de4hj
    @Mark-de4hj Жыл бұрын

    While Tesla merely cuts off a regular steering to make a "yoke," the Lexus is a more complex and entirely different innovation that "steers-by-wire." That's why it does not require hand over hand operation. I also noticed that you lump all the smaller EVs in the category without taking into consideration size. The Lexus has the roomiest trunk, which might be important to some. In regards to range, I just watched another podcast where they said that range/charging limits on the RZ are designed to reduce battery charge reduction over time, therefore making for a more reliable, longer lasting battery. Finally, no electric car will come without range anxiety, especially if you constantly take long trips. An EV may just not be the right vehicle for everyone, no matter the range. So if that's all that's important to you, then you do have other choices. Just be aware that the stated battery range when new might fall more dramatically over time than this RZ.

  • @bobd7384
    @bobd7384 Жыл бұрын

    An expensive electric golf cart except the golf cart has a bigger range and charges faster.

  • @kengreenberg
    @kengreenberg Жыл бұрын

    Toyota’s vested interest in hybrids is severely damaging the EV sector. The ostensible objections are preposterous. Always thought this company knew how to lead. Amazing, the power of hubris… While Musk is loathsome, my Tesla Model 3LR is still light years ahead of any Toyota in the EV space.

  • @ju4121

    @ju4121

    Жыл бұрын

    Lol enjoy your Tesla. I am happy with my gasoline power car.. Only way I get an electric is when the epa comes to me with long gun and 20 plus agents to consficate my car 😂😁😁😁😁😁

  • @Voiceofreason772

    @Voiceofreason772

    Жыл бұрын

    Agreed. Toyota is becoming the BlackBerry of the automotive industry. My Tesla has been extremely reliable. Also, the continuous software updates containing new functionality, SEAMLESS control from the Tesla app, & the entertainment options on the head unit are all exquisite features. 👌🏽 Teslas are how I imagined cars would be in the future when I was a kid.

  • @tego5370

    @tego5370

    Жыл бұрын

    ​@Unity Earth it depends on the market, many countries does not gave the infrastructure to support EV for decades, so although usa may be posed to move ahead nany countries won't. Also people care more about reliability a d quality. So, Toyota will be fine. You got lucky with your tesla, most owners have had nothing bit trouble. Tesla are known for their poor build quality and poor reliability. Tesla market share will dwindle when more reliable as more reliable manufacturers enters the EV market. Also Tesla does not look luxurious for what it cost. Not many want to pay 100k for something that look less luxurious than a mazda

  • @BryceLovesTech

    @BryceLovesTech

    Жыл бұрын

    I drive a 10 year old model S that has more range faster acceleration than this car. Not to mention the nation wide super charging at work. Also, my car is on its original battery.

  • @tmklunk

    @tmklunk

    Жыл бұрын

    EV’s aren’t going anywhere! Junk! As slave labor digs for minerals for the batteries! What a joke!

  • @Phong7080
    @Phong7080 Жыл бұрын

    How many people taking evs to long road trips though? It such a pain driving evs for long road trip regardless

  • @redstaper2414
    @redstaper2414 Жыл бұрын

    Too much guessing by these analysts instead of asking Lexus rep first for engineering explanations.

  • @hereigoagain5050
    @hereigoagain5050 Жыл бұрын

    Any insights why Toyota/Lexus didn't make a competitive EV? Is battery tech that complex? Or is just lack of will?

  • @tmklunk

    @tmklunk

    Жыл бұрын

    Because Toyota knows it’s all a joke!

  • @benjaminsmith2287
    @benjaminsmith2287 Жыл бұрын

    It's not fair to comment on the variable steer by wire without driving it. This isn't about a "yoke" at all. Any type of steering wheel could be put on it. It's about the variable steer by wire. To me making up your mind first about it is unprofessional. And what's the big deal about relearning something? Isn't that what we do with one-pedal driving as well as a lot of other things if they actual improve the experience?

  • @BryceLovesTech
    @BryceLovesTech Жыл бұрын

    I love the fact that Toyota is so innovative, I love the lower range, I love the slow performance, I love the slow charging speeds, I love that terrible looking body cladding, I love the high price for what you get. Oh and no frunk or glovbox…… i’ll keep my Tesla. Thanks.

  • @fredericmarcotte4312

    @fredericmarcotte4312

    11 ай бұрын

    It depends on what you are looking for. I have the Lexus RZ and I love it. I did try the Tesla Model S and Model 3, but sadly the driving experience with both of them was horrible. Crappy suspension, squeaky cabin etc...

  • @mfbikle
    @mfbikle Жыл бұрын

    Lexus must think people who can afford the $67k RZ are stupid enough to buy it.. Hard pass, I’ll keep my 23’ NX350H

  • @charlespinto4608
    @charlespinto4608 Жыл бұрын

    Hybrid is the way to go period

  • @tmklunk

    @tmklunk

    Жыл бұрын

    😂

  • @stevewilson6193
    @stevewilson6193 Жыл бұрын

    Toyota/Lexus is stuck in the 1990s

  • @tmklunk

    @tmklunk

    Жыл бұрын

    Good

  • @patriot0971
    @patriot0971 Жыл бұрын

    I would buy this vehicle today if it had 300+ mile range but will end up buying another Tesla. I love Tesla reliability, software and tech but I hate the fit and finish.

  • @zoner__

    @zoner__

    Жыл бұрын

    Keep encouraging them to build crap. So sad

  • @janossteffen1207
    @janossteffen1207 Жыл бұрын

    This looks like a California regulation EV, similar to Mazda’s EV. The range is not good enough.

  • @peterfessier9780
    @peterfessier9780 Жыл бұрын

    I’m sure Toyota will come out with something much better once they get serious, but by then, how much better will the competition be? Judging by the comments I’ve seen in the other reviews of this car, loyal Lexus fans will buy it, but I don’t think it will attract people who just want a good EV.

  • @janhenriksson3106
    @janhenriksson3106 Жыл бұрын

    Mr Negative should get a different job.

  • @frankcoffey
    @frankcoffey Жыл бұрын

    If Toyota thinks Hybrids and Hydrogen are better then stay out of it. If you don't like EVs don't bother making bad ones just leave it to the willing and able. Making bad EVs is just wasting development dollars. They already have huge debt when are lenders going to start telling them no?

  • @kengreenberg
    @kengreenberg Жыл бұрын

    New intro. Don’t love it.

  • @ZzzMajinzzZ
    @ZzzMajinzzZ Жыл бұрын

    People should skip this and get a fucking Nissan Leaf

  • @tmklunk

    @tmklunk

    Жыл бұрын

    GAS

  • @Sashazur
    @Sashazur Жыл бұрын

    I’m impressed that Lexus managed to replace their whale face grill design with something both less distinct yet even more repulsive!

  • @TheLifetraveler1

    @TheLifetraveler1

    Жыл бұрын

    Agreed. I was on the Lexus lot recently looking at a used Genesis. The salesperson asked why I wouldn't consider Lexus. Told her I own two Lexus vehicles before, but I just couldn't buy a car that looks like a big fish that's going to run me down and eat me.

  • @Mark-de4hj

    @Mark-de4hj

    Жыл бұрын

    @@TheLifetraveler1 Silly people don't usually buy Lexus so no big surprise here, sounds like made-up nonsense! lol

  • @thersanothersidetome
    @thersanothersidetome Жыл бұрын

    It’s a Lexus, that is NOT made for road trips 🙄

  • @benjaminsmith2287
    @benjaminsmith2287 Жыл бұрын

    Range, range, range. Boring. The Lexus RZ is a very fine vehicle and you're babbling on about range. This is one of the most gimmick free BEVs that have come out recently. Toyota is not "kicking and screaming" to make BEVs. They're saying slow down the mandates and let customers drive demand. They're ahead because they're actually looking at FCEVs and dare to say maybe BEV shouldn't be the only EVs and let's look at some downsides of BEVs. And the guy is really annoying to listen to with his negative droning on about the car not having a glovebox. It has radiant heating. That's a great idea for BEVs. And Lexus/Toyota brings variable steer by wire, which will make for less motion in low speed maneuvers. There is all sorts of nice technology in this car and the whole range talk is so overblown IMO. Used as most people use cars, it's not a generous range, but as Lexus said they are intending this car to be, a 2nd car, it's workable. CR should have talked to someone at Lexus. The RZ is a Lexus first not an EV first. So, if the guy wanted to see more EV stuff you're looking at the wrong vehicle.

  • @DJL78
    @DJL78 Жыл бұрын

    2 of these 3 host’s need to retire.

  • @jbmop

    @jbmop

    Жыл бұрын

    What? They’re great!

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