Lexus RZ vs Volvo ES90
Two electric cars 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 Volvo ES90 opens at $88,880. That makes the Volvo ES90 the more affordable entry point by $2,120.
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 $97,768 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 Volvo ES90 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Volvo ES90 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. The Volvo ES90 adds a 360-degree camera that the Lexus RZ misses.
Feature Showdown
The Lexus RZ features a 14-inch touchscreen paired with a 7-inch digital dash, while the Volvo ES90 gets a 14.5-inch display and 9-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Lexus RZ stands out with Apple CarPlay, V2L and Mark Levinson audio that you will not find on the Volvo ES90. The Volvo ES90 counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, panoramic roof, ventilated seats, Harman Kardon audio and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Lexus RZ gets synthetic leather upholstery while the Volvo ES90 offers nordico fabric. Climate control is 2-zone in the Lexus RZ and 4-zone in the Volvo ES90.
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 Volvo ES90 responds with a Electric making 245kW and 480Nm, paired to a single-speed driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6.9 seconds.
The Volvo ES90 has the clear power advantage at 245kW vs 230kW. In the real-world sprint, the Lexus RZ is 1.9s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 71.4kWh (Lexus RZ) vs 92kWh (Volvo ES90), giving WLTP ranges of 440km and 554km. DC fast charging peaks at 150kW (Lexus RZ) vs 300kW (Volvo ES90).
Space & Comfort
The Lexus RZ measures 4,805mm long on a 2,850mm wheelbase, 195mm shorter than the Volvo ES90 at 5,000mm (3,102mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Volvo ES90 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 522L in the Lexus RZ and 424L in the Volvo ES90, giving the Lexus RZ a 98L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m to 11.8m
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.8m 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 5 years / 999,999km (Volvo ES90). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lexus RZ if: You need more boot space, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Volvo ES90 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer Volvo's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Volvo ES90 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 best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Lexus RZ and Volvo ES90?
The Volvo ES90 is the cheapest at $88,880 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Lexus RZ by $2,120.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Volvo ES90 has the most range at 554km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Volvo ES90 accepts the highest DC charging at up to 300kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Lexus RZ and Volvo ES90 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 Volvo ES90 has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,400kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Volvo ES90 makes the most power at 245kW. 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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