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New Delhi: Toyota had been at the centre of all criticism for its slow EV rollout, but the brand has been taking some strides over the past few years. The newest entrant comes wearing the Lexus badge and a new nameplate, called TZ. More or less the upscale version of the electric Highlander, it is the first three-row electric SUV coming from Toyota’s luxury brand. It isn’t just a plain and simple rebadged model, as many of the body panels are unique. 

In terms of length, it sits at 200.8 inches, and the six-seat Lexus TZ is roughly the same size as the ICE-powered LX but comes on a much bigger wheelbase. Revisions to the TNGA platform let the engineers push the wheels more outward, freeing up 120.1 inches between the axles. That makes it almost 8 inches more than the conventionally powered SUV.

While it shares its wheelbase and width (78.3 inches) with the Highlander, the TZ is about two inches longer overall and sits at 67.1 inches in height, which is about 0.2 inches lower.

Lexus TZ powertrain and performance

Even though Toyota is planning to sell the electric Highlander with front-wheel drive in the United States, Lexus will offer the TZ exclusively with a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive configuration. Buyers have a choice between 76.96 kWh and 95.82 kWh batteries, with about 482 km of range. Like it is with EVs, wheel options will make it more or less efficient. The TZ will be coming with either 20 or 21-inch alloy wheels with low-rolling-resistance tyres.

Even though it is a boxy SUV, it comes with quite a low drag coefficient, at 0.27. This is all thanks to the flush door handles and redesigned side mirrors, which improve the aerodynamic efficiency. The global division is set to come at about 402 hp, which is a 64 hp increase over the dual-motor Highlander. Weighing at 2,630 kg, it can do 0-100 kph in 5.4 seconds. 

Lexus TZ interior

Lexus TZ interior feels high quality

On the inside, the cabin comes with massive upgrades over the Highlander, with the touchscreen going all the way to the passenger side of the dashboard. Lexus is going to offer TZ ventilation and power ottomans for the first two rows, a first in the brand. The third-row passengers can benefit from quite a big legroom, owing to the extended wheelbase. 

It comes with the world’s longest sliding panoramic roof (with an electric sunshade), one-touch folding for the second and third rows, and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. Lexus is even going to use bamboo trim to elevate the cabin beyond what the Highlander comes with. The TZ also gets a naturally aspirated V10 sound.