The Lucid Gravity: The Most Impressive Three-Row Electric SUV Available

The Shifting Landscape of Big Vehicles

As consumers increasingly shift their preferences from sedans to larger vehicles, the lines separating SUVs, crossovers, and MPVs are becoming indistinct. If you seek a spacious car with formidable power, excellent handling, and genuine seven-person seating capability, the Lucid Gravity stands out as one of the most impressive three-row electric vehicles (EVs) available today. It’s essential, however, to avoid labeling it as a minivan.

Design and Dimensions

While some may argue that the Gravity bears similarities to traditional minivans—particularly with its extended length of 198 inches, which surpasses the LWB VW ID. Buzz by three inches—the design leans more towards a luxury vehicle than a practical family hauler. The vehicle features a smooth front end focused on aerodynamics, resembling more of a Chrysler Pacifica than a rugged Rivian R1S. According to a Lucid representative, the term “minivan” has taken on negative connotations recently, largely due to the perception that these vehicles prioritize practicality over dynamic driving experiences. As a result, branding the Gravity as a minivan feels almost derogatory, despite the only significant difference being the absence of sliding doors.

Performance and Power

The Gravity’s Grand Touring version, starting at $94,900, boasts an impressive 828 horsepower and features like standard air suspension and optional rear-wheel steering, emphasizing that it is far from sluggish. Additionally, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, rivaling many sports cars and leaving gas-powered competitors in the dust. Despite its minivan-like appearance, the Gravity certainly outperforms any minivan globally.

Charging the Gravity is a breeze, thanks to its advanced 926-volt architecture, allowing it to utilize up to 400 kW of power. This makes the Gravity one of the fastest-charging EVs outside China, capable of adding 200 miles of range in under 11 minutes. Paired with its potential for up to 450 miles of range, the Gravity challenges the preconceived notion that electric vehicles are inadequate for long road trips.

Interior and Comfort

For those prioritizing luxury in their travel, the Gravity surpasses many minivans with its abundance of plush features. The vehicle is equipped with heated front and second-row seats, and its expansive glass panoramic roof extends nearly the entire length of the vehicle, allowing everyone to enjoy a view of the sky. Additionally, the second-row passengers have access to a separate screen for controlling music, climate, and other amenities.

Lucid maximally utilizes the Gravity’s length to provide ample space. While the third-row seats might not always be the most comfortable for adults on long journeys, they are among the most spacious currently available. For those needing extra cargo space, the third-row seats fold flat into the floor, creating 56.2 cubic feet of room while keeping the second row up. An intriguing optional feature is a folding cushion that transforms the frunk into a cozy loveseat, complete with cupholders, adding a nostalgic touch for those who miss drive-in movie theaters.

Driving Experience

One of the most captivating aspects of the Gravity is its driving experience. Upon entering, drivers are greeted by a stunning 34-inch 6K OLED display, offering an uninterrupted visual experience as opposed to separate screens that can feel disjointed. This expansive interface is complemented by a unique squircle-shaped steering wheel that allows for enhanced visibility over the impressive infotainment system.

Surprisingly, despite its sizable dimensions, the Gravity doesn’t feel cumbersome on the road. The cabin offers a spacious and airy atmosphere, creating the impression of driving something much smaller. With the optional rear-wheel steering in the demo model, navigating through tight urban environments becomes remarkably agile, proving its ability to maneuver adeptly.

Suspension and Handling

While testing the Gravity around New York, the car’s suspension system impressed greatly. Weighing in at around 6,000 pounds (depending on the configuration), it glides smoothly over bumps without losing touch with the road. The driving experience is gentle, providing subtle feedback rather than harsh jolts. In my test vehicle, equipped with Lucid’s Dynamic Handling Package featuring three-chamber air suspension, the added cost of $2,900 feels justified given the improved performance, particularly with rear-wheel steering.

Price Considerations

Despite its many advantages, the Gravity’s price starts at nearly $95,000 for the Grand Touring model, raising concerns about its affordability. Even when the base model becomes available, expected to start around $80,000, it remains out of reach for many potential buyers. This leads to questions about why Lucid did not prioritize the development of a more affordable mid-size SUV.

Color Options and Features

Another concern is the current color palette offered by Lucid, which appears to cater more to older buyers rather than appealing to a younger, more dynamic audience interested in EVs. Vibrant choices are limited to muted tones like a brownish bronze or olive green, leaving many hoping for a wider variety of eye-catching colors akin to the stunning blue found on the Air Sapphire.

Additionally, Lucid’s Dream Drive 2 Pro hands-free driving technology will not be ready for launch, and difficulties in sourcing components for the heads-up display system may delay its availability. The positive aspect is that all necessary hardware resides within the Gravity, allowing for a simple over-the-air update to activate it once ready.

Conclusion

As Lucid ramps up production efforts throughout the upcoming year, the Gravity has established itself as a top-tier choice in the realm of large EV SUVs. With an enticing combination of luxury, performance, and practicality, it offers a compelling alternative for those in search of an upscale three-row vehicle that defies conventional expectations.