Lexus has announced substantial discounts on its latest electric model, the RZ 450e, in an effort to attract more customers to the brand’s electric vehicle lineup. According to a bulletin sent to dealers, the automaker is offering lease cash incentives of up to $10,000 for the electric SUV. The RZ 450e, which was unveiled last year and recently became available for purchase in the US, is generating interest with its discounted pricing.
Sharing a platform with the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra, the RZ 450e boasts an impressive powertrain. It features a 71.4-kilowatt-hour battery pack that provides an EPA-estimated range of 220 miles. The SUV comes standard with all-wheel drive and delivers 308 horsepower, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 4.8 seconds.
The RZ 450e is currently offered in two trim levels: Premium and Luxury. The starting prices for these trims are typically $59,650 and $65,150, respectively. The base Premium trim comes generously equipped with standard features like a panoramic roof and a 14-inch touchscreen. Upgrading to the Luxury trim adds 20-inch alloy wheels and a premium Mark Levinson surround sound system, enhancing the overall driving experience.
According to reports, the most enticing lease deal for the RZ 450e can be found in Los Angeles, where a local dealer is offering a monthly rate of $599 with a $4,999 down payment. This represents a significant reduction of around $200 per month compared to previous prices, making it an attractive option for potential lessees.
While the discounts on the RZ 450e may pique interest, some questions arise regarding the reasoning behind them. When compared to other electric SUVs priced at $60,000 or higher, the RZ 450e falls short in certain aspects. Competitors like the Cadillac Lyriq and Genesis GV70 offer better EPA-estimated ranges and boast superior driver assistance technology. These factors contribute to a challenging landscape for the RZ 450e in the competitive electric vehicle market.
However, the current lease discounts may still make the RZ 450e an appealing choice for certain buyers. Existing Lexus customers, particularly those transitioning from hybrid vehicles, can take advantage of these offers. Despite its comparative disadvantages, the RZ 450e presents a compelling option and could find a place among potential buyers seeking an electric SUV.
