Earlier this year, Toyota unveiled their first three-row electric SUV, the Highlander EV. Now, it’s Lexus’ turn to put its spin on the segment with the upcoming TZ, which has a luxurious layout, seating for up to six people and a maximum range of 300 kilometers.
Like its Highlander EV and Subaru Getaway cousins, the TZ is based on Toyota’s e-TNGA platform and will be available with two battery sizes (76.9kWh or 95.8kWh) and an upgraded Direct4 AWD system. Although Lexus hasn’t provided specific information about power, based on the output found in other models that share this platform, we expect 400 horsepower (or more) depending on the exact configuration. It’s the same situation when it comes to range, because while we’re still waiting for the official from the EPA, Lexus estimates that the 95kWh TZ will go 300 kilometers between charges.
Meanwhile, at 200.8 inches, the TZ is actually slightly longer than the Highlander EV, while sporting a similar exterior with tighter lines and Lexus’ signature spindle-shaped grille. There is also Dynamic Rear Steering (up to four degrees) which should be able to move better at low speed and increase stability at high speed. Unfortunately, the TZ’s 400-volt architecture doesn’t look very impressive, with a charging speed of up to 150kW that should deliver 10 to 80 percent charging times in about 35 minutes. Thankfully, the car comes with a native NACS port and, for those times when you need to charge your other gadgets, Lexus makes a dedicated accessory adapter that plugs into the AC inlet in the cargo area.
Inside, the TZ’s infotainment is centered around a 14-inch touchscreen and a second 12.3-inch instrument cluster for the driver. Lexus says the TZ will also support Smart Digital Key+ that lets you unlock the car with your phone or smartwatch, and will continue to work even if the gadget runs out of battery. Also, apart from the basic infotainment system, the TZ supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
The TZ’s platform and exterior are identical to the Highlander EV and Subaru Getaway, so Lexus seems to be really leaning on the EV’s interior as a way to differentiate itself from its rivals. The company claims that the TZ has the quietest cabin of all its SUVs (both EV and ICE) and the quest for silence and quiet relaxation seems to be the main design goal of the car, as Lexus uses the word silence eight different times in its official statement. The TZ also has a number of sustainable materials scattered throughout the car including faux bamboo panels, plant-based UltraSuede and recycled aluminum for things like the roof rails and tonneau cover frame.
Unfortunately, we’re still waiting for official information on the TZ’s pricing and availability, configuration and trim levels, which Lexus plans to release closer to the EV’s on-sale date sometime later this year.
