As we bid farewell to our 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring, we reflect on the journey that has been both exhilarating and challenging. Our team at Edmunds has had the privilege of owning and testing this luxury electric vehicle for over two years, clocking an impressive 22,000 miles. In this article, we will delve into the highs and lows of our experience, exploring the Lucid Air's strengths and weaknesses, and what it's like to live with this remarkable vehicle every day.

Original Testing

Our initial encounter with the Lucid Air Grand Touring was nothing short of impressive. We were struck by its sleek design, spacious interior, and impressive features. Our first drive left us impressed with its smooth acceleration, silent operation, and comfortable ride. However, it was during our prolonged ownership period that we encountered a few issues that raised concerns about the vehicle's build quality.

Build Quality Issues

One of the primary concerns we had with the Lucid Air was its build quality. We encountered a few issues, including a creaky dashboard and a faulty infotainment system. These problems were not only frustrating but also raised questions about the vehicle's durability and reliability. While Lucid has made significant strides in addressing these issues through over-the-air software updates, we couldn't help but wonder if these problems would have been avoided if the vehicle had been better built from the start.

OTA & Physical Updates

Speaking of software updates, we were impressed by the Lucid Air's ability to receive timely and effective over-the-air (OTA) updates. These updates not only addressed our build quality concerns but also added new features and improved the overall performance of the vehicle. We were also pleased to see Lucid's commitment to physical updates, which included a revised interior trim and new exterior colors. These updates not only enhanced the vehicle's appearance but also demonstrated Lucid's willingness to listen to customer feedback and make improvements.

Value & Depreciation

As we approached the end of our ownership period, we began to think about the Lucid Air's value and depreciation. While the vehicle's initial price was steep, we couldn't help but feel that it was worth it. The Lucid Air's impressive performance, range, and features made it a compelling choice for anyone in the market for a luxury electric vehicle. However, we were also aware that the vehicle's value would likely depreciate over time. Our research suggested that the Lucid Air would lose around 20-30% of its value within the first three years, which is relatively high compared to other luxury vehicles.

Software-Based Vehicles: Pros and Cons

As we reflect on our experience with the Lucid Air, we are reminded of the pros and cons of software-based vehicles. On the one hand, these vehicles offer the flexibility and convenience of over-the-air updates, which can address issues and add new features without the need for physical repairs. On the other hand, they also raise concerns about the vehicle's reliability and durability. We were impressed by Lucid's commitment to software updates and the benefits they brought to the vehicle, but we also acknowledge the potential risks associated with relying on software to fix problems.

Edmunds' Take

As we conclude our review of the Lucid Air Grand Touring, we are left with a mix of emotions. While we were impressed by the vehicle's performance, features, and updates, we were also frustrated by the build quality issues we encountered. Our experience has taught us that luxury electric vehicles are not without their challenges, but they also offer a unique opportunity for innovation and improvement. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, we expect to see more software-based vehicles on the market, and we will be eager to see how they address the pros and cons of this technology.

Alternate Products

Final Verdict

In conclusion, our experience with the Lucid Air Grand Touring has been both exhilarating and challenging. While we were impressed by the vehicle's performance, features, and updates, we were also frustrated by the build quality issues we encountered. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, we expect to see more software-based vehicles on the market, and we will be eager to see how they address the pros and cons of this technology. If you're considering a luxury electric vehicle, the Lucid Air is certainly worth a look, but be sure to research and test drive it to ensure it's the right fit for you.

Where to Buy