CHALLENGE ACCEPTED

The big-selling Tesla Model Y is the car to beat in the premium electric SUV class. Can the new Lexus RZ do it?

AN electric revolution is sweeping across the new-car market, and one brand can be credited for that, to a fairly large degree. Tesla proved that EVs can be exciting and desirable at a time when few other EVs could claim to be either.

As a result, rival brands are now trying to wrestle away some of Tesla's market share. And there are chances to be had, as our last encounter with a Model Y showed (versus the Volkswagen ID. Buzz in Issue 1771), when it came in for some criticism for its road manners. However, this time we're trying the top-spec Performance variant, which gets a unique chassis set-up. We're keen to see whether the changes to the Tesla have altered our opinion from last time, for better or worse.

Toyota, and its luxury division Lexus, have been slower than most to react to Tesla's popularity. Now, we have the all-electric Lexus RZ to try, so can this be the car to take the class lead? We find out in our in-depth real-world test, plus we also take a look at four additional Model Y rivals that also deserve your consideration.

WHAT IS A REAL-WORLD ROAD TEST?

THE Auto Express Real-World Road Test subjects the latest cars to our rigorous assessment processes, which are focused on buyers' needs.

We consider the merits of each car - not only the way that it drives, but also every aspect important to owners, from the space inside to the usability of infotainment systems.

Equally importantly, we give you a clearer indication than ever of how much you can expect to pay if you place an order today, thanks to our in-depth number crunching.

Lexus RZ

MODEL TESTED: RZ 450e Premium Plus Pack

PRICE: £68,500

POWERTRAIN: 2x e-motors, 71.4kWh battery, 308bhp