The 2026 BMW iX and Lexus RZ represent distinct approaches to the luxury electric SUV. The iX is BMW's dedicated electric flagship—spacious, powerful, and packed with tech. The Lexus RZ, thoroughly updated for 2026, offers more range, a new F Sport performance variant, and Lexus's legendary refinement at a much lower price. Here's how they compare.
At a Glance: Full Spec Comparison
| Spec | 2026 BMW iX | 2026 Lexus RZ |
|---|---|---|
| Expert Rating | RAC 9/10 | C/D 7.5/10 |
| Starting Price | $75,150 | $47,295 |
| Horsepower | 402-650 hp | 221-402 hp |
| 0-60 mph | 3.6-4.9 sec | 4.1-7.2 sec |
| Range (EPA/est) | 312-364 mi | 225-302 mi |
| Battery | 100.1-113.4 kWh | 74.7-77 kWh |
| Peak Charging | 175-195 kW | 150 kW |
| 10-80% Time | ~30-35 min | ~30 min |
| Cargo Space | 77.9 cu ft max | 522L (approx 18.4 cu ft) |
| NACS Port | No (CCS) | Yes (standard 2026) |
| Warranty (battery) | 8 yr/100k mi | 8 yr/100k mi |
2026 BMW iX Pros
- Extremely quiet cruiser
- Spacious interior with high-quality materials
- Impressive performance across lineup
- Available air suspension transforms ride
2026 BMW iX Cons
- Expensive even at base level
- No third row
- Boot space smaller than some rivals
- Polarizing exterior design
2026 Lexus RZ Pros
- Significantly lower starting price
- New NACS port for Supercharger access
- Improved 300-mile range on base model
- New 402-hp F Sport variant
- Lexus refinement
2026 Lexus RZ Cons
- Less powerful than BMW in most trims
- Slower charging speeds (150 kW)
- Smaller cargo area
- Numb steering
"The iX might not be sticking around forever, with future electric SUVs expected to shift to BMW's Neue Klasse architecture. But after a day behind the wheel of these updated models, one thing is clear: the 2026 iX lineup represents BMW's electric SUV at its very best." BMW Blog
"The RZ has always delivered signature Lexus plushness, and with improved power and range, it's now more compelling than ever." Car and Driver
Price & Value: Lexus Is the Bargain
The Lexus RZ starts at $47,295, a whopping $28,000 less than the base BMW iX xDrive45. That's a massive difference. Even the top-tier RZ 550e F Sport at $58,295 undercuts the base iX. The BMW iX, while expensive, offers a more premium interior, greater range, and more power, even at entry level.
Range & Efficiency: BMW Leads
The BMW iX xDrive60 achieves up to 364 miles of range, while the iX xDrive45 offers 312 miles—both besting the Lexus. The Lexus RZ 350e now offers 302 miles (base FWD), a huge improvement, but the dual-motor 450e drops to 261 miles, and the performance-oriented 550e F Sport manages just 225 miles. For long-distance driving, the BMW is the clear winner.
Charging: Lexus Gains Supercharger Access
For 2026, the Lexus RZ comes standard with a NACS port, granting direct access to Tesla's Supercharger network, a massive advantage for road-trippers. The BMW iX retains its CCS port and charges at up to 195 kW (vs. the RZ's 150 kW), meaning faster peak charging speeds where CCS networks are available. Both achieve 10-80% in about 30 minutes.
Interior & Luxury: BMW's Tech vs. Lexus's Simplicity
The BMW iX features a minimalist yet opulent cabin with a curved 14.9-inch display, available Bowers & Wilkins sound system, and exceptionally quiet highway cruising—RAC measured just 65 decibels. The Lexus RZ focuses on simplicity with an 11.4-inch touchscreen and synthetic leather upholstery. It's refined but less lavish. The iX also offers more cargo space (77.9 cu ft max vs. about 18.4 cu ft in the RZ).
Performance: BMW Dominates
The BMW iX M70 produces 650 hp and hits 60 mph in 3.6 seconds. Even the base iX xDrive45 delivers 402 hp and 4.9-second 0-60. The Lexus RZ 550e F Sport offers 402 hp and a 4.1-second 0-60, matching the base BMW's power. The RZ 450e is much slower at 4.9 seconds with only 308 hp. For driving enthusiasts, the BMW is the clear choice.
Quick Spec Comparison
| Spec | BMW iX xDrive45 | Lexus RZ 350e |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $75,150 | $47,295 |
| Horsepower | 402 hp | 221 hp |
| 0-60 | 4.9 sec | 7.2 sec |
| Range | 312 mi | 302 mi |
| NACS Port | No | Yes |
Awards & Recognition
The BMW iX earned 9/10 from RAC and praise for being "among the best luxury electric cars on sale right now". The Lexus RZ received a 7.5/10 from Car and Driver, with the verdict that "with improved power and range, it's now more compelling than ever".
Quick Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 BMW iX if:
- You prioritize performance and range: even the base model is powerful
- You want a spacious, tech-forward luxury interior
- Budget is less of a concern
- You value a supremely quiet, refined highway cruiser
Choose the 2026 Lexus RZ if:
- You want the best value in a luxury EV—$28k less than the BMW
- You need Supercharger access (NACS port is standard)
- You appreciate Lexus's understated refinement and simplicity
- You're interested in the new 402-hp F Sport variant