2026 Lexus RZ vs. BMW iX vs. Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV: Luxury Electric SUV Comparison
The 2026 Lexus RZ starts at $47,395 MSRP. That is about $18,900 under the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV on MSRP and about $28,900 under the BMW iX on MSRP. The RZ is also the most efficient of the three, at an EPA-estimated 126 MPGe combined against 94 and 93. Match the three on horsepower instead of trim level and the gap holds: a 402-horsepower RZ 550e F SPORT AWD at $58,395 MSRP undercuts a 402-horsepower BMW iX xDrive45 at $76,325 MSRP by $17,930.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Which 2026 Electric Luxury SUV Offers the Best Value Near Encino?
Starting Price
The Lexus RZ 350e opens at $47,395 MSRP. The Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV 320+ opens at $66,300 MSRP and the BMW iX xDrive45 at $76,325 MSRP. For drivers in Encino, Tarzana and the surrounding San Fernando Valley, the RZ is the only one of the three with a starting MSRP in the upper $40,000s.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Efficiency and Charging Cost
Efficiency compounds that advantage every month of ownership. The RZ 350e is rated at an EPA-estimated 126 MPGe combined on 18-inch wheels. The iX xDrive45 is rated at an EPA-estimated 94 MPGe combined on 20-inch wheels, and the EQE SUV 320+ at an EPA-estimated 93 MPGe combined. The Lexus converts roughly a third more of every kilowatt-hour into forward motion, and that lands directly on the charging bill.
Side-by-Side Specifications
| Specification | 2026 Lexus RZ 350e | 2026 BMW iX xDrive45 | 2026 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV 320+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $47,395 MSRP | $76,325 MSRP | $66,300 MSRP |
| Horsepower | 221 hp | 402 hp | 315 hp |
| Torque | 198 lb-ft | 516 lb-ft | 416 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive |
| Driving range | 301 mi (manufacturer-estimated, 18-in wheels) | 312 mi (EPA-estimated, 20-in wheels) | 302 mi (EPA-estimated) |
| Fuel economy | EPA-estimated 136 city / 115 hwy / 126 combined MPGe | EPA-estimated 94 city / 93 hwy / 94 combined MPGe | EPA-estimated 98 city / 87 hwy / 93 combined MPGe |
| Curb weight | 4,321 lbs | 5,567 lbs | 5,368 lbs |
| Seating capacity | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Lexus RZ figures are confirmed against the Lexus USA pressroom. All EPA-estimated efficiency ratings are confirmed against the EPA fuel economy database. BMW and Mercedes-Benz figures come from each manufacturer’s published specifications and the EPA 2026 Fuel Economy Guide.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Matched on Power, the Lexus RZ Costs Thousands Less
Comparing entry trims flatters the German models, because both start with more output than the front-wheel-drive RZ 350e. The more useful question is what each brand charges for a given level of performance.
| Matched output | Lexus | German competitor | Lexus MSRP advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 402 hp | RZ 550e F SPORT AWD — $58,395 MSRP | BMW iX xDrive45, 402 hp — $76,325 MSRP | $17,930 less on MSRP |
| Approx. 310 hp | RZ 450e AWD, 308 hp — $50,895 MSRP | Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV 320+, 315 hp — $66,300 MSRP | $15,405 less on MSRP |
The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD matches the iX xDrive45 horsepower for horsepower. It also adds a retuned suspension, exclusive 20-inch wheels and a virtual eight-speed manual shift mode.
Against the Mercedes, the RZ 450e AWD lands within seven horsepower of the EQE SUV 320+. It delivers that output through the DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system rather than a single rear motor.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
2026 Lexus RZ Trim Lineup and Pricing
The RZ spans six trims and three powertrains — twice the choice of either German rival, which each offer three.
| 2026 Lexus RZ Trim | MSRP | Horsepower | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|
| RZ 350e | $47,395 MSRP | 221 hp | Front-wheel drive |
| RZ 350e Premium | $49,595 MSRP | 221 hp | Front-wheel drive |
| RZ 450e AWD | $50,895 MSRP | 308 hp | DIRECT4 all-wheel drive |
| RZ 450e Premium AWD | $53,095 MSRP | 308 hp | DIRECT4 all-wheel drive |
| RZ 450e Luxury AWD | $58,395 MSRP | 308 hp | DIRECT4 all-wheel drive |
| RZ 550e F SPORT AWD | $58,395 MSRP | 402 hp | DIRECT4 all-wheel drive |
The RZ 350e and 350e Premium use a single front motor rated at 221 horsepower and 198 lb-ft of torque. The RZ 450e, 450e Premium and 450e Luxury use a dual-motor DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system rated at 308 horsepower. The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD tops the lineup at 402 horsepower. By comparison, the BMW iX is offered only as the xDrive45, xDrive60 and M70 xDrive, and the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV only as the EQE 320+, EQE 320 4MATIC and Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Electric Range, Efficiency and Charging
How the Three Compare on Range
All three clear 300 miles in base form, so none is range-limited for daily driving across the Valley. The RZ 350e is rated at a manufacturer-estimated 301 miles on 18-inch wheels, the EQE SUV 320+ at an EPA-estimated 302 miles, and the iX xDrive45 at an EPA-estimated 312 miles on 20-inch wheels. That is a spread of under four percent, measured under different testing protocols.
EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
What separates the Lexus is efficiency. At an EPA-estimated 126 MPGe combined, the RZ uses meaningfully less energy per mile than either rival. Every charge costs less, and there is less battery mass to move in the first place.
Charging the 2026 Lexus RZ
Charging runs through an 11 kW onboard AC charger, up from 7 kW last year. Under ideal conditions, DC fast charging takes the battery from 10% to 80% in around 30 minutes.
The 2026 RZ also adopts a North American Charging System port on the passenger side. That opens direct access to Tesla Supercharger locations. The Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV reaches the same network through a CCS-to-NACS adapter instead.
Still weighing electrified powertrains? Our guide to how hybrid and electric cars compare is a good starting point, and the full Lexus Electrified lineup covers every hybrid, plug-in and battery-electric model.
EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Acceleration
The RZ 450e reaches 60 mph in 4.9 seconds using DIRECT4, which varies front-to-rear torque distribution based on vehicle speed and steering angle, then holds a 50:50 balance in Range mode. The RZ 350e takes 7.1 seconds, tuned for a quiet, settled ride rather than outright acceleration.
Curb Weight
The largest dynamic difference between these three is mass. The RZ 350e weighs 4,321 lbs. The EQE SUV 320+ weighs 5,368 lbs and the iX xDrive45 weighs 5,567 lbs. That is a difference of 1,000 to 1,250 pounds. It shows up where a Valley driver notices it: parking structures along Ventura Boulevard, tight streets in Encino and Tarzana, and the energy cost of every stop and start.
Interior Space and Passenger Comfort
Interior Dimensions
| Measurement | Front Row | Rear Row |
|---|---|---|
| Headroom | 38.6 in | 38.7 in |
| Legroom | 42.1 in | 37.5 in |
| Hip room | 54.7 in | 51.8 in |
| Shoulder room | 56.9 in | 54.3 in |
Materials and Standard Comfort Features
Interior materials run to NuLuxe synthetic leather, offered in Palomino and Macadamia and in Thunderstorm and Black. Standard equipment includes ambient lighting, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated power front seats, and a heated steering wheel.
The Premium trims add a fixed panoramic moonroof with variable tint and a hands-free power liftgate. The RZ 450e Luxury adds 20-inch wheels, synthetic suede front seat trim, heated rear seats and a 13-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.
Cargo Capacity
The BMW iX leads this group on outright cargo volume, at 35.5 cubic feet behind the second row and 77.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Technology and Connectivity
A 14-inch central touchscreen running Lexus Interface is standard across the lineup, supporting smartphone integration and cloud navigation. Ten speakers are standard, with the 13-speaker Mark Levinson system reserved for the 450e Luxury. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with a wireless charging pad.
A head-up display, digital rearview mirror, Digital Key and advanced park with remote parking become available at the Premium trim level and are standard on the 450e Luxury. The 2026 RZ also introduces an improved Dynamic Sky Panorama Glass Roof, which shades more deeply when opaque and reads clearer when transparent. Shoppers cross-shopping within the Lexus electric range can review 2026 Lexus ESe range and specs for the brand’s electric sedan.
Standard Safety Systems
Every 2026 RZ carries a full suite of active safety and driver-assistance technology as standard equipment. No package is required. Standard systems include:
- Adaptive cruise control with lane centering
- Evasive steering assist
- Forward and reverse automatic emergency braking
- Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Lane-keeping assist
- Automatic high beams
- Surround-view camera system
- Road sign assist
- Front and rear parking sensors
Proactive Driving Assist adds braking and steering support entering curves. It also responds when a vehicle or pedestrian is detected ahead. The Premium trims step up to a higher level of parking assist with visual displays and automatic braking.
Driver-assistance and advanced safety systems are supplemental aids and are not substitutes for safe and attentive driving. Availability, operation, and effectiveness vary by trim and equipment and depend on factors including road, weather, traffic, and vehicle condition. Always keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. See your owner’s manual for system limitations and details.
The Verdict: Which Luxury Electric SUV Wins?
| Category | Winner | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Lexus RZ | On MSRP: $18,905 below the EQE SUV, $28,930 below the iX |
| Fuel economy | Lexus RZ | EPA-estimated 126 MPGe combined vs. 94 and 93 |
| Power per dollar | Lexus RZ | 402 hp for $17,930 less on MSRP than a 402 hp iX xDrive45 |
| Curb weight and agility | Lexus RZ | 4,321 lbs, roughly 1,000 lbs lighter than both rivals |
| Charging port | Lexus RZ | Native NACS port; the EQE SUV requires an adapter |
| Lineup breadth | Lexus RZ | Six trims and three powertrains vs. three trims each |
| Driving range | Effectively matched | 301, 302 and 312 mi — within four percent |
| Maximum cargo volume | BMW iX | 35.5 cu ft behind row two; 77.9 cu ft seats folded |
| Maximum available output | BMW iX | 650 hp on the M70 xDrive, at $111,500 MSRP |
If maximum cargo volume or a six-figure performance flagship is the priority, the BMW iX answers that. For nearly every other shopper, the 2026 Lexus RZ is the stronger choice. It offers comparable range, a third better efficiency, and the broadest lineup of the three. It also matches the iX on horsepower for $17,930 less on MSRP. For a look at how Lexus stacks up against BMW elsewhere in the range, see our 2026 Lexus ES vs. BMW 5 Series comparison.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2026 Lexus RZ more cost-effective than the BMW iX and Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV?
On purchase price and on energy cost, yes. The RZ 350e starts at $47,395 MSRP, about $18,900 below the EQE SUV 320+ and about $28,900 below the iX xDrive45 on MSRP. Its EPA-estimated 126 MPGe combined also outpaces the iX xDrive45 at 94 MPGe and the EQE SUV 320+ at 93 MPGe, which translates into lower charging costs over the life of the vehicle.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
How much less does a Lexus RZ cost than a BMW iX with the same horsepower?
The RZ 550e F SPORT AWD produces 402 horsepower at $58,395 MSRP. The BMW iX xDrive45 produces the same 402 horsepower at $76,325 MSRP. That is a difference of $17,930 on MSRP for identical output, and the RZ 550e F SPORT adds a retuned suspension, exclusive 20-inch wheels and a virtual eight-speed manual shift mode.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Which of these electric SUVs offers the most driving range?
All three land within four percent of one another at base trim. The BMW iX xDrive45 is rated at an EPA-estimated 312 miles on 20-inch wheels, the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV 320+ at an EPA-estimated 302 miles, and the Lexus RZ 350e at a manufacturer-estimated 301 miles on 18-inch wheels.
How many trims does the 2026 Lexus RZ offer?
Six: the RZ 350e and RZ 350e Premium with front-wheel drive, the RZ 450e, RZ 450e Premium and RZ 450e Luxury with DIRECT4 all-wheel drive, and the RZ 550e F SPORT AWD, which is the first F SPORT model built on an all-electric Lexus platform. Both the BMW iX and the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV offer three.
Where can I test drive the 2026 Lexus RZ near Woodland Hills?
Lexus of Woodland Hills is located at 21701 Ventura Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91364, serving Encino, Tarzana, Reseda, Calabasas and Canoga Park. To arrange a test drive, call our sales team at 818-276-9964.
Disclaimers
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Driver-assistance and advanced safety systems are supplemental aids and are not substitutes for safe and attentive driving. Availability, operation, and effectiveness vary by trim and equipment and depend on factors including road, weather, traffic, and vehicle condition. Always keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. See your owner’s manual for system limitations and details.