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Lexus’ electric 3-row SUV makes its first public appearance

The 2027 Lexus TZ is the first purely electric three-row SUV from Toyota’s luxury brand. Ahead of its upcoming launch, the electric TZ was spotted driving in public for the first time.

When is Lexus launching the electric TZ?

We got our first look at the new 2027 Lexus TZ in May, an upscale sibling to the upcoming Toyota Highlander BEV.

It’s based on the same platform as the electric Highlander and will be available with two battery pack options: 76.96 kWh and 95.82 kWh, which Lexus said will deliver a driving range of up to 300 miles on a single charge.

Unlike Toyota’s 3-row SUV, all 2027 Lexus TZ models come with an “evolved” version of its DIRECT4 AWD system.

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The dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) setup packs a combined 420 horsepower and enables it to tow up to 3,500 lbs. Drivers will be able to choose from five unique drive modes that will automatically optimize drive settings: normal, sport, eco, range, and rear comfort.

Lexus-TZ-electric-spotted
2027 Lexus TZ electric three-row SUV (Source: Lexus)

Although it uses the same platform as the Highlander EV, Lexus said the TZ will stand apart with its signature driving experience. In fact, Lexus claimed the electric TZ has the quietest cabin of any of its SUVs to date, with a fine-tuned suspension, dynamic rear steering, and a reinforced body structure.

Inside, the TZ features the latest Lexus Interface Multimedia system. The system now includes customizable apps and widgets, plus an updated “Hey Lexus” voice assistant.

The infotainment system now offers full-screen navigation and added EV charging functions, like EV Routing and an EV Range Map.

At 200.8″ long, 78.3″ wide, and 67.1″ tall, with a 120.1″ wheelbase, the Lexus TZ is about the size of other three-row EV SUVs, including the Hyundai IONIQ 9 and Volvo EX90.

With charging speeds of up to 150 kW, the electric TZ can charge from 10% to 80% in about 35 minutes. It also has a NACS port, so drivers can charge at Tesla Superchargers without needing a separate adaptor.

The 2027 Lexus TZ is expected to go on sale in late 2026 or early 2027. With its official launch coming up, the electric SUV was spotted driving in Toronto while filming a commercial.

Top comment by PurpleScooter

Liked by 6 people

So the point of the smaller battery is to claim the low base model starting price which will never be available since you can't really custom order a Lexus or Toyota. This is very far behind. The Lexus interiors are also not what they were, so they are selling on old reputation alone, but the EV customers are different than typical Lexus customer. Typical Lexus buyer will never look at Hyundai or Kia, but EV buyers regularly do (service issues aside)

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A few images and a video of the TZ were posted on the #Torontocarspotting Facebook group (via Rigun KG) on Thursday.

Lexus has yet to announce prices for the 2027 TZ. Given that the 2027 Toyota Highlander BEV is expected to start in the mid-$50,000 range, the Lexus TZ will likely start in the mid-$60,000 range as a more upscale option.

Source: #Torontocarspotting, Rigun KG

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Avatar for Peter Johnson Peter Johnson

Peter Johnson is covering the auto industry’s step-by-step transformation to electric vehicles. He is an experienced investor, financial writer, and EV enthusiast. His enthusiasm for electric vehicles, primarily Tesla, is a significant reason he pursued a career in investments. If he isn’t telling you about his latest 10K findings, you can find him enjoying the outdoors or exercising