Lexus Plans 3-Row Electric SUV to Compete with the Kia EV9 | Carscoops

      Lexus is set to introduce its full-size electric SUV next year, featuring the TZ450e and TZ550e variants, with a potential F Sport model in development.

      Lexus is working on an all-electric three-row SUV inspired by its 2021 Electrified concept.

      The upcoming Lexus TZ may utilize components from the RZ to help minimize production and development expenses.

      Recent trademark filings for TZ450e and TZ550e suggest that at least two versions are in the works.

      While Lexus is not known for hurrying, it typically moves forward with a sense of calm assurance. It seems the Lexus lineup will broaden with the addition of a new all-electric three-row SUV, and we are starting to get a preliminary idea of its design, which promises to be an intriguing electric alternative to the current models.

      According to reports, the new model, likely named the TZ, will be built on a platform shared with the Toyota bZ5X. It is intended to serve as a three-row electric substitute for the gasoline-powered Lexus TX, a segment that is rapidly expanding in the electric vehicle market, where aspects like size, range, and brand prestige are essential.

      Designer Theophilus Chin, also known as Theottle, has reimagined the Lexus Electrified SUV concept presented in 2021 to give a glimpse of how the new model might appear in production form. While we won't have a concrete picture of the TZ until Lexus begins public testing of prototypes, it makes sense for the automaker to heavily draw from this concept.

      A Recognizable Profile with Minor Adjustments

      In the front, Theottle’s illustration replaces the concept's striking headlights with more traditional ones that align better with current Lexus design trends. The lower lighting features and the shape of the front bumper remain unchanged, indicating that Lexus is likely to maintain its conceptual aesthetics.

      Along the sides, some practical modifications have been introduced. The original flush door handles have been swapped for conventional ones, and a new wheel design has been incorporated, along with standard side mirrors. These are typical features expected in production models, which are necessary for dealership readiness.

      The most noticeable alteration at the rear of the TZ is the incorporation of smaller taillights that don't extend down the rear quarter panels as much. Nevertheless, the back of the new three-row Lexus still appears somewhat cluttered, and it’s hoped that Lexus's designers will create a more appealing rear design.

      Currently, details on the production model remain limited, but in 2023, Lexus applied to trademark the TZ450e and TZ550e names, indicating the preparation of at least two electric variants. Lexus might utilize the 77 kWh battery found in the new RZ, but considering the size and expected weight of this three-row SUV, it is probable that the TZ550e will require a battery with a greater capacity. For context, the Kia EV9, one of the few EVs already in this category, offers options for 76.1 kWh and 99.8 kWh battery sizes.

      Regarding the RZ, its entry-level version, the RZ 350e, is equipped with a single electric motor on the front axle, producing 224 hp (167 kW) and 198 lb-ft (269 Nm) of torque, with a range of 357 miles (575 km). The RZ 500e features dual motors generating 375 hp (280 kW), achieving 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.6 seconds, but has a lower estimated range of 311 miles (500 km).

      For the 2026 model year, Lexus introduced the RZ 550e F Sport, offering 402 hp (300 kW) from its dual-motor system and accelerating to 100 km/h (96 mph) in 4.4 seconds. However, this added performance comes with the trade-off of a reduced range of 280 miles (450 km). Given that the TZ will be larger and heavier than the RZ, Lexus will need a significantly larger battery to accommodate its demands.