The Lexus Electrified Concept that broke cover in December 2021 is set to finally evolve into a production model, expected to be called Lexus TZ.
From the official Youtube placeholder, the future EV will debut on May 6 (9:30 PM, EDT) and should arrive in the U.S. as an MY2027 vehicle. Here’s our preview of the three-row EV.
Design
Expected to have been designed at the CALTY design studio in Newport Beach, California, the 2027 Lexus TZ will be clearly differentiated from the Highlander EV with unique sheet metal and plastic parts.
As depicted in our exclusive renderings, the 2027 Lexus TZ will have a chamfered fascia design. Expansive body-colored surfaces, including a closed upper grille area, should lend the three-row electric family SUV a minimalist look. Lexus will likely avoid using chrome trim to maintain the low-profile theme.
Two-section headlamps, observed in test prototypes, comprise a slim module of daytime running lights on the top and a similar housing of low- and high-beam lights below. A wide but compact grille with active shutters, located at the bottom of the bumper, should serve the cooling needs of key components such as the battery pack and powertrain.
On the sides, the 2027 TZ should feature body-colored wheel arches and electronically actuated semi-flush door handles for a clean look and large windows that enhance visibility and a sense of space. Lexus should offer multiple wheel design options in 19- to 22-inch sizes. At the rear, we expect a full-width taillight that extends onto the sides.
Interior
The interior of the 2027 Lexus TZ should have a contemporary and uncluttered design, clearly differentiated from the Highlander EV in looks and quality. The three-row SUV should feature a sleek dashboard with slim AC vents and floating displays, a compact steering wheel, a center console with an open storage space at the bottom, and a dual Qi wireless charging tray.
Lexus may launch the SUV with a choice of seven seats and six seats, with the latter including captain’s chairs in the second row. A one-touch fold button on the second-row seats should ease ingress into the third row. Amenities like USB-C charging ports, cupholders, and AC vents throughout the cabin, including the third row, are expected.
Specifications
At the tape, we expect the 2027 Lexus TZ to be around 199 inches long, about 78 inches wide, and roughly 67 inches tall. Its wheelbase should span approximately 120 inches.
Lexus may stick to dual-motor AWD variants with at least 420 hp on tap. A standard 95.8 kWh battery pack should extend the range to around 300 miles. It should feature an NACS charging port and have Plug & Charge capability. We expect a 10-80% DC charging session to take around 30 minutes.
Price & Release Date
The 2027 Lexus TZ should go on sale in the U.S. in the second half of 2026, with prices starting at approximately USD 70,000. It will compete with the Volvo EX90 and the Rivian R1S.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
