Comparing Auto Attack range with Ability range is actually not that accurate in most cases. This is because they're measured differently.
Auto attack range is measured from the outside of the character model.
Ability range is measured from the center of the character model.
I would suggest testing this again, except use Annie as a point of reference. Her Q range is exactly 625 units, which is what Zed's ult should be. So if she can Q him notably before he ults, then yes, his ult range is in fact bugged.
If not, I can do it later after work and verify it myself.