Lexus revealed its first-ever 3-row electric SUV. Check out the TZ

Lexus Unveils the 2027 TZ: A Premium Electric Three-Row SUV for the Kiwi Market

Lexus is set to make a significant splash in the electric vehicle (EV) arena with the upcoming 2027 Lexus TZ, its inaugural three-row electric SUV. This new model promises a blend of luxury, practicality, and cutting-edge technology, all wrapped up in a distinctive package designed to appeal to families and discerning drivers alike. Built on the same adaptable TNGA platform that underpins the recently announced Toyota Highlander, the TZ aims to elevate the EV experience with a focus on refinement and passenger comfort.

Powertrain and Performance: Range and All-Wheel Drive as Standard

A key highlight of the 2027 Lexus TZ is its impressive electric range. The flagship model boasts an estimated 300 miles of driving on a single charge, powered by a substantial 95.8-kilowatt-hour battery. This is the same long-range battery option found in the Toyota Highlander, ensuring robust performance. For those seeking a slightly more accessible entry point, a smaller 77 kWh battery pack will also be available, though Lexus has yet to release specific range figures for this configuration.

Crucially, unlike its Toyota counterpart, which offers a front-mounted motor option, the Lexus TZ comes exclusively with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) system as standard. This setup delivers a potent maximum system output of 402 horsepower (300 kilowatts), providing a significant boost over the AWD Highlander. The intelligent dual-motor arrangement allows for dynamic torque distribution between the front and rear axles. In response to driving conditions, the torque split can shift dynamically. For instance, during acceleration, it can adjust from a 60:40 front-to-rear bias to a full 100% to the rear. Similarly, during spirited cornering, the system can pivot from an 80:20 split to a 100% rear-wheel-drive bias for brief, performance-oriented bursts.

Exterior Design: Bold Lines and Sophisticated Touches

The exterior of the 2027 Lexus TZ is characterised by its bold, blocky styling, which conveys a sense of strength and presence. Standard equipment includes 20-inch wheels, with larger 22-inch options available for those who prefer a more imposing stance. The front grille adopts Lexus's signature spindle design, now presented in a closed-off configuration befitting an electric vehicle. A striking visual element is the blacked-out C-pillar, which creates an illusion of a floating roofline. Crisp, clean lines define the bodywork, and the rear is completed by a full-width LED lightbar, adding a modern and distinctive signature.

Charging and Innovative Features: Convenience and Versatility

Lexus is embracing the evolving charging landscape by equipping the 2027 TZ with a native NACS (North American Charging Standard) charge port. This forward-thinking inclusion means owners will be able to seamlessly connect to Tesla Superchargers and other DC fast chargers equipped with the NACS standard, eliminating the need for adapters. The charge port is conveniently located on the front right side of the vehicle, concealed behind a motorised door. For the larger battery, the TZ supports a maximum charging power of 150 kilowatts, enabling an impressive 10% to 80% charge in approximately 35 minutes.

Beyond rapid charging, the TZ comes standard with advanced features such as battery preconditioning, which optimises battery temperature for faster charging and better performance in various climates. Vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability is also standard, allowing owners to utilise the SUV's main battery to power external devices like tools and appliances via the charge port and a dedicated adapter.

For enhanced driving dynamics, rear steering will be available as an optional feature. This system allows the rear wheels to turn up to 4 degrees, which Lexus claims will deliver exceptional handling and reduce body sway. With rear steering engaged, the minimum turning radius is reduced to a nimble 17.2 feet, compared to 19 feet for models without the feature.

Interior Sanctuary: A Lounge-Like Experience

The true essence of Lexus luxury is perhaps most evident within the TZ's interior. The cabin is designed to be a sanctuary, a "lounge space" that prioritises comfort and sophistication for all occupants. A full-length opening glass panoramic roof floods the interior with natural light and features an integrated power sunshade, benefiting all three rows of seating. Unique interior accents include Forged Bamboo surfaces, sustainably sourced from Japan's Shikoku Island, adding a touch of natural elegance.

The front passenger seat and the second-row captain's chairs offer a level of comfort rarely seen in SUVs, featuring ventilation and power-adjustable ottomans – a first for a Lexus SUV. All seats in the TZ are heated, ensuring warmth and comfort in cooler conditions.

Lexus asserts that the 2027 TZ will offer the quietest cabin of any Lexus SUV to date. While the inherent silence of the electric powertrain is a major contributor, engineers have gone to great lengths to minimise noise intrusion. This includes the strategic use of sound-absorbing materials, the incorporation of vibration-frequency offsetting design elements, and the optimisation of aerodynamic mirrors to reduce wind noise.

The driver-focused cockpit features a large digital instrument cluster positioned behind the steering wheel. This is complemented by a central touchscreen interface and a range of intuitive touch-sensitive controls. Ambient lighting comes as standard, enhancing the cabin's atmosphere, and the TZ is equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features to provide peace of mind. For practicality, the cargo capacity is rated at 13.8 cubic feet behind the third row, and the maximum towing capacity stands at 3,500 pounds.

Further details regarding the specific trims and pricing for the 2027 Lexus TZ are expected to be released later in 2026.

More Family-Focused EVs to Consider:

• A Used Kia EV9 Presents a Compelling Value Proposition for EV Buyers.
• The 2027 Toyota Highlander is an American-Made Electric Three-Row SUV with a 320-Mile Range.
• Comparing Three-Row EVs: Toyota Highlander vs. Hyundai Ioniq 9 vs. Kia EV9.
• The 2026 Lucid Gravity is a Versatile 3-Row Electric SUV.

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