Lexus TZ 2027: The "salon on wheels" that redefines electric luxury with three rows of seats
Lexus is taking a decisive step towards a sustainable future with the official unveiling of the new Lexus TZ, its first all-electric SUV (BEV) equipped with three rows of seats. Designed to combine Japanese refinement with the dynamics of a performance vehicle, the TZ promises to transform every journey into a total relaxation experience, initially debuting in the North American market as a formidable competitor in the large premium SUV segment.
A Wind-Sculpted Exterior: Aerodynamics and Aesthetics
The design of the new TZ follows the philosophy of “Provocative Simplicity”, where simple yet sharp forms meet raw functionality. Lexus has managed to achieve a remarkable aerodynamic coefficient of 0.27 Cd, a top value for an SUV in this class, essential for maximizing autonomy.
- Visual Identity: The front reinterprets the "Spindle Grille" in a unitary body, flanked by the new Twin-L light signatures (which integrate daytime running lights and turn signals).
- Premium Details: The door handles are semi-recessed to reduce air resistance, and the 20- or 22-inch wheels are not just design pieces, but include aerodynamic resin caps and sculpted spokes to optimize airflow.
- Launch Color: The model introduces the Shaded Ivy shade, a deep green that evokes harmony with nature.
"Driving Lounge": Uncompromising comfort for 6 passengers
The interior of the new TZ is not just a cabin, but a true lounge. Based on the Driving Lounge concept, it maximizes the space generated by the dedicated electric platform (TNGA).
Business-class comfort. Lexus has prioritized quietness, with the TZ being declared the quietest SUV in the brand's history. Engineers have used state-of-the-art sound-absorbing materials and optimized aerodynamic mirrors to eliminate wind noise.
- Luxury seats: The first two rows feature ventilation and a power-operated footrest (ottoman) — a first for a Lexus SUV.
- Easy access: The third row, which offers sofa-like cushioning, is easily accessible thanks to walk-in buttons and rails integrated into the floor.
- Sustainability: In the cabin we find "Forged Bamboo" (forged bamboo from the island of Shikoku) and Bio-based UltraSuede™, demonstrating that luxury can also be ecological.
Technology and Infotainment: The Digital Brain of the New TZ
The Lexus TZ introduces the latest generation of the Lexus Interface system, supported by AT&T 5G connectivity.
- Displays and Interaction: The digital instrument cluster offers full-screen navigation, complemented by an advanced Head-Up Display (HUD). The “Hey Lexus” voice assistant has been enhanced for more natural controls.
- Immersive Sound: Music lovers will be spoiled by the 21-speaker Mark Levinson™ audio system, designed to deliver distortion-free sound throughout the cabin.
- EV Management: The system includes EV Routing and EV Range Map, which calculates the optimal route based on available charging stations.
Performance and Range: Power Under the Floor
The Lexus TZ comes equipped with two lithium-ion battery options, tailored to range and performance needs:
- 76.96 kWh
- 95.82 kWh (providing an estimated range of approximately 480 kilometers).
Driving dynamics. The DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system intelligently distributes torque between the front and rear motors (from 60:40 to 0:100 under acceleration), ensuring incredible stability in corners.
Innovation: The "REAR COMFORT" driving mode adjusts the suspension, braking and traction force distribution specifically to minimize lateral movements and pitching, protecting rear-row passengers against motion sickness.
The Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) system also allows the rear wheels to steer by up to 4 degrees, reducing the turning radius at low speeds and increasing stability at high speeds.
Safety: Lexus Safety System+ 4.0
The new TZ debuts with the LSS+ 4.0 suite, which brings more "human" and fluid interventions:
- Proactive Driving Assist (PDA): Provides gentle braking and steering to maintain distance from the vehicle in front.
- Traffic Jam Assist: Allows hands-free driving in traffic jams at low speeds.
- Intersection Turn Assist: Detects pedestrians or oncoming vehicles at intersections, applying emergency braking if necessary.
Future Electric Charging
The US model will adopt the North American Charging Standard (NACS), eliminating the need for adapters at high-power stations. Furthermore, the AC External Power Supply function allows the SUV to be used as a giant battery to power household appliances outdoors.
The 2027 Lexus TZ is not just a simple electric SUV; it is a statement of the brand's maturity, offering a balance between generous family space and the technical refinement that has established the Japanese brand.
Availability: When will we see it in showrooms?
When it comes to purchasing a “salon on wheels” like the new 2027 Lexus TZ, patience is the key word for customers on the old continent. Although the official presentation took place in May 2026, the launch schedule follows a phased strategy.
Lexus has confirmed that the North American market is first on the list, where the first units are expected to arrive at dealers in the last quarter of 2026.
For us, the good news is that Europe (including Romania) is part of the global expansion plan. According to the official calendar communicated by the European division, the commercial debut in our region is scheduled for early 2027. So, for us, TZ will probably be the star of next spring, with deliveries set to start in the first half of 2027.
Price: How much will the Japanese luxury car cost "at the outlet"? Although official prices for Romania have not yet been listed on the official website (where the model is currently listed as a "future model"), we can make an estimate based on the figures announced for the US and the positioning in the range:
- In the US: A starting price of approximately $65,000 - $70,000 is estimated for the base variant (Premium).
- In Romania/Europe: Taking into account taxes (VAT) and import costs, we expect the starting price to be in the range of 75,000 - 85,000 euros.
- Top variants, such as the TZ 550e with the Luxury or F-Sport package, could exceed the 95,000 - 100,000 euro threshold, competing directly with the Volvo EX90 or Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV.
Will we see it in Romania?
Absolutely, yes. Lexus Romania has already begun the transition to a fully electrified range, and the success of the RX and NX models on the local market guarantees the introduction of the new TZ. Romania has become an increasingly receptive market to luxury electric SUVs, and the 6-seat format is a niche that Lexus wants to dominate, offering a more refined alternative to volume models.
Advice from a future owner
If you want to be among the first to "float" through Bucharest traffic or on the highway to the sea in a TZ, you'd better get in touch with a local dealer towards the end of this year, as pre-booking lists usually open 6 months before the physical launch.