The 2027 Lexus TZ is the latest addition to Toyota’s luxury brand. It is the first foray for Lexus into this space, and it enters with an SUV that touts an estimated 300 miles of range. It goes up against the Rivian R1S, Cadillac Vistiq, and Volvo EX90.
The TZ is the production vehicle derived from the Driving Lounge Concept that explored an open and relaxing cabin for a vehicle engineered to still be fun to drive. Electric motors with their instant torque will do that.
The TZ has standard all-wheel drive for all trim levels. Rear steering is optional, and can be a boon for parking larger vehicles while also improving handling. Customers will have a choice of 20- or 22-inch wheels. It uses the well-known TNGA platform that has proven itself underneath much of the Toyota and Lexus lineups.
Two Battery Sizes
For energy storage, there are two lithium-ion battery pack options: 77.0 kWh and 95.8 kWh. Extra sound-absorbing materials work to keep out road noise when there is no engine to mask it.
If the mechanically related Highlander is an indication, the base TZ could generate 338 hp and 323 lb-ft of torque for a 0–60-mph time of about 6.0 seconds. The higher end model could mimic the Subaru Getaway—a twin to the Highlander—and its 420-hp system to reach 60 mph in less than 5.0 seconds.
Drive modes include Normal, Sport, Eco, Range, and Rear Comfort, the latter of which works to keep those in the rear from getting carsick. There are five levels of deceleration with the regenerative braking. Active Sound Control produces artificial sounds upon acceleration and deceleration but can presumably be turned off.
Roomy Cabin
Inside, Lexus has appointed the cabin with sustainable materials like forged bamboo and bio-based microsuedes, and creates an airy feeling with a slim instrument panel and seats. The low floor and long wheelbase add to the sense of spaciousness, as does the panoramic roof that covers all three rows, has a power sunshade, and can be opened.
Occupants in the front and second-row captain’s chairs seats get cooled as well as heated seats, and there are power ottomans to stretch out which is a first for Lexus. The third-row seats are cushioned like a sofa and access is aided by flush seat rails and a one-touch function to move the second-row seats. The rear console, with a two-tier tray system, is removable to walk to the back of the SUV. The second and third row seats fold at the touch of a button.
Today’s vehicles are all about the screens. The TZ has the latest generation infotainment system from Lexus for what is calls an immersive multimedia experience with 5G connectivity, faster computing, customization widgets, and the Lexus voice assistant. It is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The TZ has a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.
On the safety side, the TZ features the Lexus Safety System 4.0 with all the functions you might expect, to help accelerate, steer, brake, stay in a lane, and navigate traffic to avoid a collision, whether by issuing a warning or intervening when the driver fails to act.
For charging, Lexus introduces its first 2-in-1 charging port that puts AC and DC connectors side-by-side with a sliding cover. The U.S. model has the NACS port which means it can use Tesla Superchargers.
Full trim level and pricing details will be available later this year, closer to the on-sale date.