Soon after Toyota unveiled its new Highlander SUV in China, Lexus rolled out its own take on it. Known as the Lexus TZ, it is an all-electric full-size SUV capable of sprinting to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.4 seconds. Sales will start in late 2026, so let’s check out the spec sheet in the meantime.
The TZ is 5.1 meters (201 inches) long with a wheelbase spanning 3.05 meters (120 inches). It features the brand’s signature spindle grille, has its own headlights and taillights, and sports a rather cool-looking, muscular hood. Other than that, it has the same body proportions and outlines as the Highlander – even if Lexus won’t admit that the two models are related.
The interior is being advertised as an “automotive living room” for how comfortable it allegedly is. All seats are ventilated, and the noise proofing all around is next-gen, the company claims. At the same time, most in-car functions are accessible solely though capacitive buttons and touchscreens, rather than physical buttons. The SUV shown above is a three-row six-seater, but other options might become available later on.
Trunk size goes up to 2,017 liters (71.23 cubic feet) with the two rear rows folded down. Equipment options include a panoramic roof, rear-wheel steering and wheels sized up to 22 inches large. Trimming materials include recycled aluminum, eco-textile and something exotic called Forged Bamboo (likely referring to pressed bamboo fiber).
Lexus positions the TZ as a global model, so there are no powertrain differences between China and the rest of the world. The SUV uses two electric motors to drive all four wheels with 408 PS (402 hp / 300 kW). It receives its power from a 95.82-kWh battery pack. In Europe, WLTP-rated range comes to 530 kilometers (329 miles), while China’s own cycle estimates it at 640 kilometers (397 miles). If this inconsistency gives you range anxiety, keep in mind that you can replenish the charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 35 minutes using a relatively common 150kW charger outlet.