Lexus is stepping into the big-league electric SUV segment with a bold move—its first all-electric three-row SUV, likely launching in 2025. Expected to come in TZ450e and TZ550e variants, this upcoming model is designed to go head-to-head with the Kia EV9 and other full-size EV competitors.
An All-Electric Family SUV with Lexus DNA
The new SUV will be based on the 2021 Lexus Electrified Concept, a futuristic design that’s finally being brought to life. Though official visuals haven’t been revealed, a rendering by designer Theophilus Chin (Theottle) gives us a peek into what a production-ready version might look like.
📌 Lexus is known for precision rather than speed—and the TZ project is no different. But the automaker seems ready to make a statement in the fast-growing electric SUV space.
Lexus TZ Electric SUV Platform Design
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🔸 Front End: The aggressive concept headlights are swapped for more realistic Lexus-style units.
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🔸 Sides: Traditional door handles replace the flush design, improving practicality.
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🔸 Wheels & Mirrors: New alloy wheels and standard mirrors have been added for road-readiness.
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🔸 Rear Design: The full-width taillights are now shorter and more compact, though the rear still feels slightly busy.
🧠 While still a concept-based design, these tweaks make it showroom-friendly while retaining a futuristic edge.
Lexus TZ Electric SUV Platform & Powertrain
Lexus TZ is expected to share its platform with Toyota's upcoming bZ5X, a three-row EV. It will serve as a larger alternative to the gas-powered Lexus TX, and will likely reuse elements from the Lexus RZ to cut down on development costs.
🚀 Lexus has filed trademarks for TZ450e and TZ550e, hinting at two different variants—possibly with different motor and battery configurations.
Expected Performance and Battery Specs of Lexus TZ Electric SUV
While Lexus hasn’t shared full specs yet, comparisons with existing Lexus EVs give us some clues. The upcoming TZ is expected to outperform the RZ lineup, especially in battery size and range.
Lexus TZ vs Lexus RZ & Kia EV9 (Estimated)
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Lexus TZ Battery, Range & Charging Expectations
Lexus may reuse the 77 kWh battery from the RZ 450e for the TZ450e. However, the TZ550e will likely need a larger battery, possibly up to 100 kWh, to offset its bigger size and weight.
⚡ Based on RZ specs:
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The RZ 500e uses a 375 hp dual-motor system and delivers up to 311 miles of range.
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The new RZ 550e F Sport offers 402 hp but drops to 280 miles of range.
Expect the TZ550e to have similar power but better range optimization.
What’s Next for Lexus EV Lineup?
The TZ electric SUV is part of Lexus’s broader EV strategy. The brand aims for 100% electric vehicle sales in major markets by 2035. The TZ will likely serve as the flagship electric family SUV, offering luxury, space, and long-range driving.
It’s expected that we’ll start seeing test prototypes later this year, with an official reveal in 2025.
Can It Beat the Kia EV9?
Kia has already taken the early lead in this space with the EV9, but Lexus is playing the long game. With a strong focus on:
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🛋️ Luxury interiors
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🔇 Quiet ride quality
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🏎️ Impressive performance
Lexus has the brand loyalty and engineering edge to give the EV9 a real challenge.
Conclusion
Lexus may have taken its time entering the three-row electric SUV segment, but the TZ could be a game-changer. With expected power-packed performance, premium features, and advanced battery tech, it might just set a new benchmark for luxury EVs.
Stay tuned—2025 is going to be electric ⚡