Testing the Lexus RZ550e's Simulated Manual

Lexus gave a luxury EV 408 hp and a fake 8-speed manual gearbox. But the software transmission exposes a much bigger reality about the 2026 Lexus RZ 550e F SPORT. Pro driver Brian Makse skips the standard review to diagnose the real owner intel Lexus won't put in a brochure. We break down the documented problem where the Digital Key’s Bluetooth polling drains the 12-volt battery while the car sits. Plus, why you need to budget over $2,000 for new Dunlop SP Sport Maxx EV tires before you even hit 15,000 miles. Has Lexus built the ultimate enthusiast EV, or just an expensive side quest? 0:00 - The Fake Manual Gearbox Exposes Lexus 0:22 - Drivetrain, DIRECT4, and 408 HP 4:34 - Handling Dynamics: Emotionally Unavailable? 7:03 - Interior Ergonomics & The Daily Annoyances 9:34 - OWNER INTEL 11:49 - The Verdict: Should You Buy the 550e? The bZ4X is Dead. Is the 2026 Toyota bZ Actually Good? https://youtu.be/Urqzikt55vU // THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY JULE ENERGY Learn more at Julepower.com and tell 'em I sent ya! ——————————————————————— // MY AMAZON STORE with my favorite things for drivers https://www.amazon.com/shop/influencer-4cc174af (this is an affiliate link) /// MERCH Pick up some sweet merch in our store! https://brian-makse-shop.fourthwall.com/ /// SUBSCRIBE Subscribe NOW to Brian Makse's Channel: https://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=brianmakse /// SOCIAL Instagram: http://Instagram.com/BrianMakse Twitter: http://Twitter.com/BrianMakse Facebook: http://Facebook.com/MakseAttack Spotify: https://sptfy.com/brianmakse Link In My Bio: https://makse.com/linkinbio/ /// MORE About Brian: http://makse.com/about /// WHAT I'M LISTENING TO Real AF With Andy Frisella https://andyfrisella.com/blogs/realaf-podcast Be sure to let us know what you think about this video and smash the subscribe button if you haven’t already! Test vehicles are provided by the respective manufacturers for review purposes, unless otherwise noted, and all opinions are our own. Music © 2026 Russell Soares (russellsoares.com), used with permission, all rights reserved. #lexusrz550e #lexusrz #lexus #brianmakse