2023 Genesis GV70 vs. 2023 Lexus RZ: A Real-World EV SUV Comparison
The electric SUV segment is filled with interesting and unique entrants. I recently had a chance to drive the 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 and the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e, both of which are eccentric in their own ways. The Genesis is classy and powerful, while the Lexus brings a futuristic vibe that departs from the normal lineup. Check out this comparison between them.
The 2023 Lexus RZ takes the cake in the styling department
Although both of these electric SUVs are stunning in their own ways, I have to hand it to Lexus for designing the RZ. If it looks somewhat familiar, it’s because the RZ shares platforms with the Subaru Solterra and Toyota bZ4x, but it has the Lexus RX design elements. The large spindle grille up front and high-riding rear end make it look futuristic and bold.
All that said, the 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 isn’t exactly plain Jane by any means. Genesis has been churning out some of the most unique-looking models over the past few years, and the GV70 is no exception. Its large front grille, split headlights, and elegant body lines set it apart from everything else in the category.
However, I much prefer the Lexus RX’s styling because it looks like something out of a sci-fi movie.
The Genesis Electrified GV70 beats the Lexus RZ in the performance department
One of the coolest aspects of owning an electric car is the driving thrill you get when stepping on the accelerator. It may sound weird, but if you have never felt the instantaneous torque from an electric car, you’re missing out. The best car to demonstrate this exciting feeling is the Genesis Electrified GV70. It’s powered by a dual-motor setup that puts out 429 hp, which is way more power than you’ll need on the street.
However, a “boost” button on the steering wheel has the ability to crank things up a few notches. Press it, and you’ll unleash all 483 hp and unlock potential 0-60 mph times in the 3.8-second range. Basically, it makes the car feel super fast for 10 seconds, and everyone in the car will think they’re traveling to a different dimension. No, that’s not really an over-exaggeration.
Try it; you’ll like it.
The Lexus RZ instills a lot of driving thrill as well with its 308-hp dual-motor arrangement, too. But it’s not as fun. Car and Driver’s testing revealed the RZ could get up to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, which is still very quick but not as quick as the Genesis.
If you need a lot of electric range, the Genesis GV70 is the one to pick
The electric range is arguably the most important part of owning an electric car. After all, what’s the point of having an electric car if you can’t go anywhere with it? If range is what you see, the Genesis GV70 has it. Fully charged, it should get up to 236 miles.
That might not sound like a lot, but compared to the Lexus RZ’s 192-mile range — it’s a lot. My RZ Luxury-trim tester could only manage up to 181 miles on a full charge with the climate controls on. Turn them off, and the range jumps up by 30 miles. That’s a large jump, but driving around in 90-degree heat with the A/C off isn’t worth the extra miles.
Both of these electric SUVs are comfortable
Sitting in both of these cars is a comfortable experience. I much preferred the Lexus RZ’s Ultrasuede interior over the Genesis’ leather, but some may not. Either way, each cabin is spacious, and the infotainment and climate controls are within easy reach of the driver. The Lexus RZ is a little better suited for rear-seat passengers, though, since there’s no hump on the floor for the middle seat.
2023 Genesis GV70 vs. 2023 Lexus RZ: Which EV should you choose?
Considering both of these EV SUVs have similar prices in the $60,000 to $70,000 range, it can be hard to choose between them. For my money, I would choose the Genesis Electrified GV70 for its higher range, exciting amount of power, and comfort.
The Lexus RZ has plenty of power and comfort as well, but its lack of range holds it back. Either way, both of these luxury SUVs are worth a look if you want to get away from the grind of pumping gas.
