2023 Lexus RZ 450e vs. 2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge

Driving the new Lexus RZ around Bixby means you’ll get to experience true luxury, but can the same be said for the Volvo XC40 Recharge? Here are the luxury details for both vehicles:

• Styling: The Lexus RZ 450e is a sporty midsize crossover built with the Toyota reliability Americans know and love. This Lexus EV does not sacrifice safety for beauty, and looking at the outside, the RZ can have a two-tone exterior, ducktail spoiler, and angular headlamps. The XC40 Recharge, on the other hand, is not as striking but is still handsome enough. This year’s model includes a slight exterior revamp. Most luxury EVs have an aggressive exterior design, but not the 2023 Recharge. It’s a simple design with a similar price tag as the Lexus RZ.
• Technology: The RZ 450e looks ritzy and has next-generation technology not found in most vehicles. This includes a panoramic sunroof that can be electronically frosted over, with UV protection, with the push of a button. The Volvo Recharge lacks this kind of technology. The sunroof has a heavy tint with poor sunlight protection and no shade to cover the driver – a poor choice for those daily driving during Phoenix AZ’s blistering summers.
• Interior Materials: Each vehicle has a 100% suede and vegan leather interior. That’s right, no more genuine leather options for these cars. Both vehicles offer a backlit interior and extra storage space thanks to an electric vehicle’s lack of a combustion engine.

While you’ll be turning heads wherever you go With the 2023 Lexus RZ450e, it’s not the only thing that makes driving this Lexus EV memorable. Some details about the driving dynamics and dimensions of both the Lexus RZ 450e and the Volvo XC40 Recharge are as follows:

• Yoke Steering Wheel: For the first time, Lexus has introduced a yoke-style steering wheel option, a feature similar to one first seen on the Tesla Model Y. Tesla has come under criticism for this unique steering wheel. However, automotive journalists put these concerns to rest with the Lexus version. Critics are impressed with Lexus yoke steering performance and ease of learning. In comparison, the Volvo XC40 Recharge does not have this as an option.
• Dimensions: Comparing the size and spaciousness of each electric SUV, the Lexus RZ 450e has 1.2 inches more ground clearance than the Recharge. The RZ is also longer and wider, giving more storage and breathing room for passengers and the driver.
• Handling: The Lexus RZ also offers the class-exclusive Lexus DIRECT4. It’s an electronically controlled AWD system that uses a dual-motor setup. Kelley Blue Book noted the great handling and sophisticated shock absorbers in the Lexuz RZ. However, reviews for the Volvo Recharge report that the EV’s suspension isn’t as refined and may give passengers a bumpy ride. Since this is most noticeable in the rear seats, it’s something to consider for families with children.
• One-Pedal Driving: Another interesting observation, it is hard to get a smooth stop in the Volvo EV when one-pedal driving isn’t needed. This real-world application is a real disconnect for today’s drivers who are not accustomed to regenerative braking. Ironically, even with one-pedal driving activated, the Volvo does not perform as consistently as the Lexus RZ 450e. Of course, Lexus has been refining regenerative braking since the Prius was introduced more than 20 years ago.

When you’re looking for an EV, it’s important to consider the range. Fortunately, the range for both vehicles are nearly identical, with the RZ 450e providing a range of 220 miles while the XC40 Recharge features a range of 223 miles. However, fuel economy is where the Lexus RZ 450e shines. It has over 100 miles combined MPGe, while the Recharge has only 85 MPGe. In the end, the Lexus has more overall endurance on the road than the Recharge.

One of the many highlights of Lexus vehicles is their interior refinement, and it’s no different for the 2023 Lexus RZ. The Lexus RZ 450e makes it clear that everything was thought out so you can enjoy seamless drives. The same can’t necessarily be said for the 2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge:

• Screen Size: One of the biggest gripes of the Volvo Recharge is its infotainment system. The touchscreen dashboard is only nine inches long. The Lexus RZ offers a 14-inch dashboard touchscreen instead. That is a five-inch difference compared to the Recharge! This is the kind of infotainment system expected for this kind of luxury vehicle.
• Buttons: The Volvo XC40 Recharge also has no physical buttons for climate control. Heated front seats and steering are standard, but the buttons on the steering wheel console are reported to be hard to use. The Lexus EV does have physical buttons for climate control, making things much easier to use.
• Storage: Another complaint by automotive journalists is that while the Volvo Recharge offers creative storage boxes, it misses one major component – there is no sunglasses compartment. The RZ does have a place to store your sunglasses. It also has five USB ports while the Recharge only has four. Certainly, Lexus offers plenty of creative storage solutions that electric vehicles are known for.
• Connectivity: Each car has a Google-operated system and Google Map capabilities. Both of these automobiles offer Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and luxury-level speakers for a great music experience.