Lexus unveils its first three-row electric SUV, and it’s all about luxury
Lexus is finally expanding its electric SUV options beyond the two-row RZ. The brand just introduced the 2027 TZ, its first three-row electric SUV, and a few luxury-oriented features that are firsts for Lexus as a whole, not just its EV lineup.
The TZ centers on a “Driving Lounge” concept that makes use of a low floor and long wheelbase to prioritize comfort and space for everyone. The front and middle-row passenger seats are not only ventilated, but include Lexus’ first power ottomans in an SUV. You won’t have to put in physical effort to use that center island, in other words. Even the frequently-neglected third row reportedly has “sofa-like” cushions and a walk-in button to let people climb in even when there are child seats in place.
You can also expect the “quietest” cabin in a Lexus, according to the company, with a combination of aerodynamic mirrors, anti-vibration design traits and sound-absorbing materials adding to the near-silence of the SUV. The Toyota marque also promises materials that are both upscale and eco-friendly, including bamboo decorations, plant-based suede, and recycled aluminum.
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2027 Lexus TZ technology: EV powertrain and interior
Stable and nimble despite its size
The capabilities of the 2027 TZ will be familiar if you’ve seen recent Lexus and Toyota EVs. It comes with 77kWh and 96kWh battery options and can deliver up to 300 miles of estimated range with the larger power pack.
It also runs on an “evolved” version of the Lexus DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system that shifts torque and braking to not only improve handling, but optionally prioritize rear-seat comfort by reducing pitching and swaying. Optional Dynamic Rear Steering turns the back wheels by up to four degrees to improve turning at slow speeds and stabilize the TZ on highways.
Lexus hasn’t detailed the TZ’s performance, but does tout safety-oriented driver aids that include assistance for emergency steering, intersection turns, lane centering (not just changes or departure warnings), and street sign recognition.
Inside, the TZ premieres Lexus’ newest infotainment system with improved speed and a fresh interface that brings custom widgets, a smarter voice assistant, and across-the-screen navigation (including charger-oriented routing) on the instrument cluster. In the U.S., the TZ offers 5G data through AT&T as well as options for SiriusXM, Spotify streaming, and the near-obligatory support for wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
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Starting price and release date
Expect a premium over the TX
Lexus expects to deliver the 2027 TZ by the end of 2026, and will share pricing and trim levels closer to launch.
It’s likely to be one of Lexus’ most expensive models. Its closest equivalent, the 2026 TX 550h+ Luxury plug-in hybrid, starts at $82,160. We’d expect the all-electric TZ to carry a premium over that SUV, especially given new perks like power ottomans.
Competing against Lucid, Volvo, and itself
While comparisons will be difficult until Lexus shares more details, the 2027 TZ already has some obvious competition. Three-row luxury electric SUVs like the Lucid Gravity and Volvo EX90 also come in at high prices and bring their own luxuries, such as the Gravity’s 450-mile claimed range and the EX90’s safety. Lexus also has to worry about competition within the Toyota family—the 2027 Highlander might be enough for drivers who want a three-row EV and don’t need exotic materials.
Source: Lexus