BMW i4 vs Lexus RZ
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 BMW i4 starts from $88,900 before on-road costs, while the Lexus RZ opens at $135,000. That makes the BMW i4 the more affordable entry point by $46,100.
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 $97,790 and $148,500 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
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW i4 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, panoramic roof, ventilated seats and Harman Kardon audio that you will not find on the Lexus RZ. The Lexus RZ counters with Apple CarPlay, V2L and Mark Levinson audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The BMW i4 uses a Electric producing 210kW and 400Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 5.5 seconds.
The Lexus RZ responds with a Electric Motor making 230kW and 435Nm, paired to a automatic. It gets to 100km/h in 5 seconds.
The Lexus RZ has the clear power advantage at 230kW vs 210kW. In the real-world sprint, the Lexus RZ is 0.5s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 64kWh (BMW i4) vs 71.4kWh (Lexus RZ), giving WLTP ranges of 527km and 440km. DC fast charging peaks at 205kW (BMW i4) vs 150kW (Lexus RZ).
Space & Comfort
The BMW i4 measures 4,783mm long on a 2,856mm wheelbase, 22mm shorter than the Lexus RZ at 4,805mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BMW i4 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 390L in the BMW i4 and 522L in the Lexus RZ, giving the Lexus RZ a 132L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.1m diameter
Average
Based on 11.1m 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 (BMW i4) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Lexus RZ). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW i4 if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Lexus RZ if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Lexus RZ takes 6 of 9 key spec categories. 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, BMW i4 and Lexus RZ?
The BMW i4 is the cheapest at $88,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Lexus RZ by $46,100.
Which has the longest driving range?
The BMW i4 has the most range at 450km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The BMW i4 accepts the highest DC charging at up to 205kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — BMW i4 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 BMW i4 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,600kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Lexus RZ makes the most power at 230kW. The Lexus RZ is quickest to 100km/h in 5s.
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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