Lexus RZ vs Kia EV9
Two electric SUVs go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Lexus RZ starts from $91,000 before on-road costs, while the Kia EV9 opens at $97,000. That makes the Lexus RZ the more affordable entry point by $6,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $100,100 and $106,700 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
Both the Lexus RZ and Kia EV9 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 87% for the Lexus RZ and 84% for the Kia EV9.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Kia EV9 packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 5 in the Lexus RZ.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
The Lexus RZ features a 14-inch touchscreen paired with a 7-inch digital dash, while the Kia EV9 gets a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Lexus RZ stands out with Apple CarPlay, head-up display and Mark Levinson audio that you will not find on the Kia EV9. The Kia EV9 counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and wireless charging. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Lexus RZ uses a Electric Motor producing 230kW and 435Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to the wheels. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 5 seconds.
The Kia EV9 responds with a Electric making 160kW and 350Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9.4 seconds.
The Lexus RZ has the clear power advantage at 230kW vs 160kW. In the real-world sprint, the Lexus RZ is 4.4s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 71.4kWh (Lexus RZ) vs 76.1kWh (Kia EV9), giving WLTP ranges of 440km and 519km. DC fast charging peaks at 150kW (Lexus RZ) vs 240kW (Kia EV9).
Space & Comfort
The Lexus RZ measures 4,805mm long on a 2,850mm wheelbase, 205mm shorter than the Kia EV9 at 5,010mm (3,100mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Kia EV9 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 522L in the Lexus RZ and 333L in the Kia EV9, giving the Lexus RZ a 189L advantage. The Kia EV9 seats 7 vs 5.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m to 12.0m
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Lexus RZ) vs 7 years / 999,999km (Kia EV9). The Kia EV9 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lexus RZ if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Kia EV9 if: You value a longer warranty, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Lexus RZ takes 5 of 9 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Lexus RZ has a clear edge. The Kia EV9 adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Lexus RZ and Kia EV9?
The Lexus RZ is the cheapest at $91,000 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Kia EV9 by $6,000.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Kia EV9 has the most range at 563km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Kia EV9 accepts the highest DC charging at up to 240kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Lexus RZ and Kia EV9 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Lexus RZ has the largest boot at 522L.
Which can tow the most?
The Kia EV9 has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Kia EV9 has the longest warranty at 7 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Lexus RZ makes the most power at 230kW. The Lexus RZ is quickest to 100km/h in 5s.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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