Lexus RZ vs Polestar 3: Which Premium Electric SUV, Japanese or Scandinavian, Wins Over More Buyers in 2026?

Few comparisons sum up the current state of the premium electric SUV segment as well as this one. On one side, the Lexus RZ, which focuses on restraint, efficiency and a price that approaches the upper-mid range. On the other, the Polestar 3, which understands “premium” as a synonym for raw power and a bill that nearly doubles the Japanese model’s. The question is not which one is better in the abstract —on paper, neither is absolutely better— but which one fits the type of buyer who will pay for it.

Lexus RZ 350e, from approximately 52,000 €: efficiency and Japanese refinement

The Lexus RZ 350e in its E-Premium Efficiency trim reaches Spain from around 52,000 € RRP, a figure that places it in very competitive territory within the premium electric SUV segment. And in a segment where 60,000 € is usually the starting point, that is no small thing.

Its strength is not breathtaking speed. With around 165 kW (224 CV) and a 77 kWh battery, the RZ prioritises range —it is rated at around 560 km— over muscle. In practice, it is a classic Lexus: quiet, well damped, with an interior that conveys the Japanese craftsmanship the brand has been cultivating for years. It is not trying to impress on a fast bend; it is designed so that a Madrid-Valencia journey can be made without battery anxiety.

Polestar 3 Long Range Dual Motor, from approximately 95,500 €: Scandinavian performance without compromise

The Polestar 3, in its Long Range Dual Motor variant with the Performance Pack, starts at around 95,500 €. That is, quite literally, almost twice the price of the RZ. And this is where it is worth pausing: you are not comparing the same product, but two different philosophies of “premium”.

With 380 kW (517 CV) and a 111 kWh battery, the Polestar 3 lives in a different performance league: a top speed of 210 km/h and all-wheel drive designed to handle any motorway overtake with ease. Its range, however, stands at around 560 km —similar to the Lexus, despite having a much larger battery— which reveals where Polestar has placed its engineering priorities: power before extreme efficiency.

The minimalist, Scandinavian interior follows the aesthetic already seen in the Polestar 3 vs Tesla Model Y Performance: sober materials, integrated screens without fuss, and driving that feels sporty without losing the composure of a family SUV.

Lexus RZ vs Polestar 3: range, power and consumption face to face

The figure that stands out most when placed side by side is precisely the range paradox. The Lexus RZ, with a battery 30% smaller, offers a rated range very similar to that of the Polestar 3 (around 560 km in both cases). This makes sense: 224 CV versus 517 CV implies smaller motors, lower consumption per kilometre and a lower total weight.

Does this mean the RZ is better? Not necessarily. It means it is optimised for something else. The Polestar 3 is not designed to squeeze every kWh, but to give the driver instant response. It is fast, yes, but it is worth bearing in mind that this speed comes at a direct cost in consumption and, most likely, in electricity bills if the Performance mode is used regularly.

Price and equipment: is the jump from 52,000 € to over 95,000 € worth it?

This is where the comparison becomes more interesting than a simple specifications table. The price difference —more than 43,000 € between the two— does not translate into a proportional leap in quality, but into a change of purpose. Whoever buys a Polestar 3 is not paying for more range or more interior refinement: they are paying for performance and a Scandinavian brand image that, for certain buyers, has value in itself.

For those who value value for money over image, it is worth reviewing our ranking of premium electric SUVs with the best value for money, where the RZ usually ranks well precisely for this reason.

We remind you that both figures are manufacturer RRPs, without dealer discounts or special campaigns, and that anyone buying either should check whether they qualify for any aid under the current Plan Auto+, whose amounts should always be checked on the official website before closing the deal.

Which driver is each premium electric SUV for?

If your main use is travelling, covering motorway distances and not depending on chargers every 300 km, the Lexus RZ clearly wins on value for money. Its 560 km range and price from 52,000 € make it a hard option to argue with in its segment.

If, on the other hand, you are looking for a more lively driving experience, a design that stands out in the car park, and budget is not your main concern, the Polestar 3 offers something the RZ simply does not aim to deliver: adrenaline.

The RZ’s score reflects its balance between price, range and refinement; the Polestar 3’s, its performance and finish, slightly penalised by the price jump over its direct rival.

Frequently asked questions

Which premium electric SUV has more range, the Lexus RZ or the Polestar 3?
The Lexus RZ 350e and the Polestar 3 Long Range Dual Motor Performance Pack rate very similar ranges (around 560 km in both), despite the latter having a larger battery.

How much does the Lexus RZ 350e cost in Spain?
The Lexus RZ 350e E-Premium Efficiency starts at around 52,000 € RRP, an indicative price without discounts or aid applied.

Is it worth paying almost double for the Polestar 3 over the Lexus RZ?
It depends on use. If you prioritise power and sporty driving, yes; if you prioritise range and purchase cost, the Lexus RZ offers better value for money.

Which premium electric SUV is better for long journeys, the RZ or the Polestar 3?
Both offer similar rated ranges (around 560 km), so the Lexus RZ is more practical thanks to its lower purchase price, while the Polestar 3 stands out for its performance.