However, the dual control pads on the wheel indicate the need for further polish. Their insubstantial feel contrasts sumptuous touchpoints elsewhere, calling Lucid’s attention to detail into question. Likewise, there’s a jagged edge of pixels along the upper touchscreen’s top curve. Even with a few physical buttons, Lucid’s user interface presents a steep learning curve. Often, we couldn’t tell if tech features were broken or if we were just using them wrong.

Then we drove the Gravity, and its sheer performance almost eclipsed our concept of logic. Whether equipped with the basic 600-ish-hosepower powertrain and dual-chamber air suspension or with the available 828-hp, triple-chamber setup, the Gravity feels like a high-riding all-electric supercar. Certainly, it’s been set up by and for skilled drivers. With such balance, control, and power, the Gravity drives sideways like it does in a straight line: beautifully. Even in mundane scenarios, this dynamic refinement is tangible; the ride quality and body control are phenomenal.

Like the Air, the NACS-equipped Gravity is among the quickest-charging EVs we’ve tested, though like many electrics its real-world range falls short of official ratings.

As we selected our finalists, Lucid’s latest sparked as much debate as anything in the contest. Praise of its hardware clashed with scorn toward its software. Eventually, we agreed a vehicle this ambitious must succeed in one area as it does in the other. Here, heady theoreticals are undermined by practical applications. Thus, the Gravity couldn’t repeat the breakout victory its predecessor achieved. We forgave that Air for its prototype status but couldn’t grant such leeway to this SUV after four years of development time and months on sale.

Lucid has crafted a masterpiece in aluminum and lithium. Had it done the same with code, it might have won another set of Golden Calipers.

This review was conducted as part of our 2026 SUV of the Year (SUVOTY) testing, where each vehicle is evaluated on our six key criteria: efficiency, design, safety, engineering excellence, value, and performance of intended function. Eligible vehicles must be all-new or significantly revised.