Lexus has just revealed the TZ, and it is precisely the premium family electric SUV that the market has been waiting for. With three rows of seats, six occupants, all-wheel drive as standard, 402 horsepower, and a range of around 483 kilometers with the larger battery, the new Japanese model arrives to fill a space that the brand had not yet adequately covered in the electric era. The TZ is positioned above the RZ in the Lexus hierarchy and will reach North American dealerships before the end of 2026, with Europe, Japan, China, and other international markets following shortly in early 2027.
The technical base of the TZ is shared with the Toyota bZ Highlander, but Lexus has gone far enough in the differences to fully justify the premium badge on the grille. The Japanese SUV measures 5,100 millimeters in length, which is 50 millimeters longer than its Toyota cousin, although the wheelbase of 3,050 millimeters is identical in both models. From there, the paths diverge clearly and deliberately.
The front of the TZ features a closed spindle grille, flanked by stacked dual-layer LED headlights, with a squared hood that draws visual references from the robust GX. The flanks are strongly sculpted around the wheel arches, highlighting the standard 22-inch wheels, with a 20-inch option available for those who prefer to smooth out road behavior and possibly gain some extra kilometers of range. The door handles are semi-recessed, and the roofline gently descends towards the rear, resulting in a slightly more generous rear overhang. At the back, a large roof spoiler, full-width LED taillights, and vertical L-shaped turn signals complete an unmistakable visual signature.
The interior is where Lexus has placed its biggest bets, and the results are as practical as they are surprising. The brand describes the onboard experience as a relaxing lounge for all occupants, and the soundproofing efforts have been so intense that the brand claims the TZ will be the quietest cabin in the entire Lexus SUV range, even surpassing the top-of-the-line LX. The front and middle rows offer ventilated seats and electric leg rests, while the third row promises sofa-like cushioning, an ambitious promise for a space that passengers typically tolerate more than enjoy. The second and third rows can fold in a single action to expand cargo space, and there are several storage compartments including a removable rear console.
The audio technology deserves a separate paragraph. The TZ includes a system of 21 Mark Levinson speakers, the absolute reference in high-fidelity car sound systems. But the most unexpected and potentially divisive novelty is the active sound control system, which synthesizes soundscapes linked to the accelerator. The sound catalog includes sequences of musical chords and, more curiously, an option that reproduces the roar of the V10 from the legendary LFA. The question of whether someone who buys a three-row electric SUV for family use really wants the synthetic soundtrack of a supercar accompanying trips to the supermarket is absolutely legitimate, but the option exists for those who wish to explore it.
The instrument panel is dominated by a next-generation touchscreen, accompanied by a digital instrument cluster. Unlike Toyota, which maintains a row of physical buttons below the screen, Lexus opted for touch controls that remain hidden in the panel and steering wheel trim when not in use, combined with a textured volume knob. The equipment also includes a panoramic roof, soft-close doors, configurable ambient lighting, and the latest version 4.0 of the Lexus Safety System+ driving assistance system as standard. The materials in the cabin embrace the brand's sustainability aspect, with forged bamboo inserts and upholstery made from bio-based UltraSuede.
In terms of mechanics, the TZ is based on an enhanced version of the TNGA architecture and will be available exclusively as an electric vehicle. Two electric motors produce a combined power of 402 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, surpassing the most powerful version of its Toyota counterpart. All-wheel drive is ensured by the standard Direct4 system, and the driver has access to dynamic rear steering, five selectable driving modes, namely Normal, Sport, Eco, Range, and Rear Comfort, and five levels of regenerative braking. The acceleration from zero to 100 km/h is completed in 5.4 seconds, and the towing capacity reaches 1,588 kilograms.
The battery choice is dual: 76.96 kWh or 95.82 kWh. With the larger battery, the estimated range according to the EPA cycle is 483 kilometers, while the WLTP measurement points to 530 kilometers and the more optimistic CLTC cycle indicates 640 kilometers. The North American versions come equipped with a NACS port, compatible with Tesla Superchargers, while models for other markets retain the CCS2 port. Both support fast charging in direct current up to 150 kW, allowing a charge from 10% to 80% to be completed in approximately 35 minutes.
The production of the TZ will take place in two units. The models for North America will be manufactured at the Georgetown factory in Kentucky, on the same line as the Toyota Highlander. Europe, Japan, Asia, and the other international markets will be supplied by the Miyata factory in Japan. Prices and the structure of versions will be announced later this year. What is already clear is that Lexus finally has the premium family electric SUV that its customers have been demanding.
