Lexus TZ Debuts as a Global Three-Row Electric SUV

Lexus TZ Debuts as a Global Three-Row Electric SUV

Lexus has introduced the TZ, a new electric crossover that gives the brand a large three-row EV positioned above its existing battery-powered models. Unlike the Toyota Highlander EV revealed earlier this year for North America, the Lexus version is planned as a global model from the start.

The TZ shares its basic structure with the electric Highlander, but Lexus has worked hard to give the SUV its own identity. The connection is still visible in the glasshouse, door shape and flush handles, yet the body panels, front end and rear design are unique to the premium model.

At the front, the TZ uses split headlights and a closed-off nose shaped around Lexus’ familiar spindle theme. At the rear, the SUV gets a roof spoiler, a slim full-width light bar and Lexus lettering across the tailgate. The result is less utilitarian than the Toyota and closer to Lexus’ current electric design language.

The two models also share the same 3,050 mm wheelbase, but the Lexus is slightly longer overall. The TZ measures 5,100 mm in length, 1,990 mm in width and 1,705 mm in height. Wheel options include 20-inch and 22-inch setups.

The cabin is where Lexus makes the clearest separation from Toyota. The dashboard has a layered layout with separate displays for the instruments and infotainment system, but the driver display is more cleanly integrated than in the Highlander. The center console includes two wireless charging pads, cupholders and a compact transmission selector.

The climate controls are handled through a touch-sensitive strip rather than a traditional button panel. That gives the interior a cleaner appearance, although it also moves the TZ further toward the screen-heavy approach now common in premium EVs.

Lexus describes the six-seat, three-row cabin as a “living room on wheels.” The first and second rows offer ventilation and power leg rests, while the third row is designed to feel more like a proper lounge seat than an occasional-use bench. The brand also says the TZ is its quietest crossover to date.

Materials are a major part of the positioning. The interior uses high-grade trim, including partially recycled materials and a bamboo-based composite called Forged Bamboo. Ambient lighting works together with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system to create different cabin “moods.”

The equipment list also includes the latest Lexus Safety System+ 4.0, bringing a wider set of driver-assistance functions. Cargo space ranges from 290 liters with all seats in use to 2,017 liters with the rear rows folded.

The TZ launches with dual-motor Direct4 all-wheel drive. Each motor produces 227 hp and 268 Nm, giving the SUV a combined output of 408 hp. Despite a curb weight of 2,630 kg, Lexus claims 0–100 km/h in 5.4 seconds. Towing capacity is rated at 1,500 kg.

Battery capacity is 95.8 kWh. Range depends on market and testing cycle: 483 km under EPA estimates in the U.S., 530 km on the European WLTP cycle, 620 km in Japan’s JC08 cycle and 640 km under China’s CLTC standard.

Charging hardware will vary by region. North American models receive Tesla’s NACS port, while other markets get their local charging standards. Maximum DC charging power is 150 kW, allowing a 10–80 percent charge in about 35 minutes.

To help with maneuverability, the TZ also gets rear-wheel steering. The rear wheels can turn by up to four degrees, reducing the turning radius to 5.4 meters.

Production will be split between two plants. North American models will be built at Toyota’s TMMK factory in Kentucky, alongside the electric Highlander. Versions for Europe and Asia will come from the Miyata plant in Japan. The Lexus TZ is scheduled to reach the U.S. market near the end of this year, with other regions following early next year.