Lexus Unveils Competitive Pricing for the 2027 TZ Three-Row Electric SUV
In a landscape where electric vehicles are rapidly evolving, Lexus has emerged to challenge the status quo with its latest offering, the 2027 TZ three-row electric SUV. Positioned to meet the demands of families who prioritize comfort, efficiency, and advanced technology, the TZ is set to make waves in the luxury electric SUV market. Its competitive pricing and thoughtfully designed features aim to make it a compelling choice for consumers seeking both functionality and style.
Toyota Motor Corporation has taken a cautious stance amidst the electric vehicle boom, emphasizing a multi-powertrain approach and patiently refining its hybrid technology. However, the pressure for a robust three-row electric SUV has prompted Lexus to accelerate its plans, introducing the TZ ahead of its stablemate, the Toyota Highlander BEV, and the Subaru Getaway. With a commitment to luxury and family-oriented features, the 2027 TZ aims to carve out a niche in the competitive electric SUV segment.
The TZ's dimensions showcase its substantial build, measuring 5,100 mm in length, with a wheelbase of 3,051 mm. Its width of 1,989 mm and height of 1,704 mm allow it to stand tall among rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Volvo EX90. Unlike many competitors, Lexus has managed to give the TZ an athletic appearance, moving away from the typical bulky SUV design.
While the TZ shares its foundational architecture with the Toyota Highlander EV and Subaru Getaway, Lexus has gone above and beyond to differentiate it. Bolstering the structure with enhanced chassis braces and strong acoustic insulation ensures a serene cabin experience, which long-time Lexus enthusiasts have come to expect.
Notably, the TZ features standard Dynamic Rear Steering, allowing for exceptional maneuverability during tight turns and school drop-offs. Combined with a finely-tuned multi-link suspension, the vehicle is poised to provide a comfortable ride over various road conditions, steering clear of the heavy floatiness that characterizes many electric SUVs.
While earlier rumors suggested a powerful 402-horsepower dual-motor configuration, Lexus has opted for a prudent 308-horsepower baseline team with an improved DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system. This choice emphasizes smooth and creamy throttle response, prioritizing comfortable family journeys over raw power.
The TZ offers a practical two-tier battery lineup to accommodate different budgets. The entry-level model features a 76.96 kWh battery with an EPA-estimated range of up to 407 km, suitable for daily urban use. The larger 95.82 kWh option enhances this range to 507 km, designed for extended road trips, although opting for the high-end Luxury trim with 22-inch wheels reduces the range to 449 km. Buyers will need to make a choice between aesthetics and practicality when it comes to range.
Charging the TZ, however, is a measured process, prioritizing battery longevity. With a peak DC fast charging capability of 150 kW, it can recharge from 10% to 80% in approximately 35 minutes. This approach may seem conservative compared to the rapid charging speeds offered by competitors, but the inclusion of a NACS charging port provides seamless access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network, addressing a common road-tripping concern.
Transitioning to the interior, Lexus has upgraded its technology with a new 14-inch multimedia screen and a digital instrument cluster that supports full-screen navigation maps. Innovations include live EV range mapping capabilities tailored to real-time conditions, a customizable interface, and an impressive 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.
In terms of pricing, Lexus has made a strategic move to offer the TZ competitively. The base model, TZ 450e Premium AWD, starts at €54,670, inclusive of a mandatory €1,320 delivery fee. For families looking for extended range, the TZ 450e Premium Touring AWD is priced at €61,500, while the Luxury variant retails at €68,760, offering added luxury features including the option for a performance upgrade to 402 horsepower. With the lineup beginning below €55,500, Lexus effectively positions itself in the luxury SUV market.
If budget and space are top priorities, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 starts around €51,690, while the Kia EV9 can be slightly lower. Still, in contrast to traditional luxury brands, Lexus holds an advantage, as competitors like the Volvo EX90 begin at €66,660, with others like the Cadillac Vistiq and Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV likely pushing prices into six-figure digits. By introducing a luxury family SUV at a starting price under €55,500, Lexus is strategically appealing to a wider market.
The 2027 TZ demonstrates that a family-friendly electric SUV doesn’t require extravagant features to stand out. Its real-world comfort, maneuverability, and solid charging solutions reflect Lexus’s commitment to addressing the practical needs of modern families. While it may sacrifice some performance bragging rights, the TZ offers a compelling balance of usability and elegance that positions it as a strong contender in the luxury electric SUV landscape.
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