The Electric SUV With a Difference – Lexus TZ Unveiled

As such, this will be Lexus’ first three-row, all-electric SUV and is expected to be a formidable competitor in the increasingly cut-throat segment.

According to international sources, the new SUV is likely to be named the Lexus TZ, developed based on a shared platform with the Toyota bZ5X – a rival model that Toyota is also working on. The TZ is envisioned as the electrified version of the combustion-engine-powered Lexus TX, targeting customers seeking a blend of spaciousness, high performance, and luxury branding.

Although Lexus hasn’t revealed the official design yet, a rendering by renowned designer Theophilus Chin suggests that the Lexus TZ could draw on the design language of the Lexus Electrified SUV concept unveiled in 2021. The front of the car in the rendering features a simple headlight design, consistent with Lexus’ current design philosophy, while elements such as the front bumper and indicator lights retain their angular shape.

On the sides, the traditional door handles have been replaced with hidden ones, similar to the concept car. The mirrors and wheels also seem production-ready. The rear of the car features more compact taillights that don’t extend downwards, giving it a more practical and production-friendly appearance.

Specific technical details of the Lexus TZ remain a mystery, but the registration of the names TZ450e and TZ550e hints at a minimum of two performance variants. It’s likely that the TZ will be equipped with a larger battery pack than the 77 kWh one found in the current RZ model to ensure a suitable range for its larger size and heavier weight.

Its direct competitor, the Kia EV9, offers two battery options: 76.1 kWh and 99.8 kWh, along with either one or two electric motors. In contrast, the Lexus RZ lineup ranges from 224 horsepower (RZ 350e) to 402 horsepower (RZ 550e F Sport), accelerating from 0–100 km/h in just 4.4 to 4.6 seconds. However, to achieve similar performance and range in the three-row SUV segment, Lexus will need a more powerful battery system.

Lexus’ entry into the three-row electric SUV race not only demonstrates the Japanese luxury brand’s aggressive shift towards the electric era but also clearly signals its strategy to compete with pioneering brands like Kia, Hyundai, and Tesla in this rapidly growing segment.

TH (Tuoitrethudo)