Lexus TZ Arrives as a Three-Row Electric SUV Aiming at Volvo EX90
RZ, Meet Your Bigger Brother
While Toyota isn't exactly going all in on electric vehicles, it's still churning these out from time to time. That said, its luxury division has only one EV offering: the RZ. Well, that changes today as Lexus has just introduced the TZ, a larger, three-row battery-powered crossover.
In many ways, it complements the fuel-fed TX and serves as an option for Lexus loyalists who have been wishing for a larger EV crossover from the company. At the same time, the TZ has two main competitors it has set its sights on: the Cadillac Vistiq and the Volvo EX90.
2027 Lexus TZ: The Basics
To oversimplify the TZ, it's the luxury version of the new-generation Highlander, itself going EV-only, leaving hybrid powertrains to the larger Grand Highlander. At the same time, it shares the same platform as the Subaru Getaway, which was revealed at the New York Auto Show.
For dimensions, the TZ measures 200.8 inches long, 78.3 inches wide, and 67.1 inches tall, and rides on a lengthy 120.1-inch wheelbase. It's over an inch longer than the Highlander EV, and ever so slightly lower, although width and wheelbase are exactly the same. Behind the third-row seats, Lexus claims a cargo capacity of 13.8 cu. ft.
As for powertrain options, there are two battery sizes available. In this case, there's a choice between 76.96 kWh and 95.82 kWh. It's still unclear whether two power output options will be offered. The company did reveal that the model it presented makes 402 hp and it lays it down via a DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system. The estimated range is rated at 300 miles.
What Else Does it Offer?
Lexus says the TZ is built around its Driving Lounge Concept. In other words, there are acres of space, soothing earth tones in the cabin, and heaps of comfort. The brand is quite proud of using bamboo for its interior trim and of its panoramic sunroof, which stretches all the way to the third row to let even more light into the cabin.
What Lexus showed was a six-seater version with the middle row consisting of captain's chairs. It's possible that a seven-seater might be offered for lower trims. Also thrown in as standard is Lexus Safety System+ 4.0, which comes with the usual array of advanced driver assists, plus emergency steering assist, intersection turn assist, and a degree of semi-autonomous driving capabilities.
As for infotainment, it features the brand's latest software, which also includes 5G connectivity. Improvements include more personalization, EV charge management options, and enhanced processing power.
Other Highlights
One of the interesting options for the TZ is four-wheel steering. It can turn the rear wheels by up to 4 degrees, and changes angle depending on speed. Another worthwhile option is the power captain's chairs that also include ventilation. Additional entertainment features are also available, including SiriusXM with 360L and integrated Spotify streaming.
The TZ can also pipe in sounds if things get a little too silent inside. Dubbed Active Sound Control, it can channel 'musical chord sequences' or even the V10 wail from the LFA...in a family crossover. This luxury EV also goes beyond the usual drive modes by coming with what's called Rear Comfort Mode. In essence, it puts the accelerator on a more relaxed setting, and the electronically-controlled dampers work overtime to keep those seated at the back as detached from any road harshness as possible.
Pricing has yet to be revealed, and so too are the trims. We'll know the full story once Lexus publishes these, and the 2027 will reach showrooms by late 2026.
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This story was originally published May 7, 2026 at 1:15 AM.