Lexus is preparing a new electric SUV: premiere on May 6
Lexus has officially confirmed the debut of a new SUV, which will take place on May 6. Although the official name is still kept secret, there is a high probability that we will see the new Lexus TZ, which will be based on the platform of the 2027 Toyota Highlander.
Design and exterior
Dark teasers published on social media show the silhouette of an SUV that will be positioned as a zero-emission alternative to the Lexus TX. The car’s proportions resemble the Highlander, however it has a unique roofline that slopes towards the rear.
The body is expected to feature new lighting design and a hood that somewhat resembles the rugged Lexus GX. Recent spy photos indicate split LED headlights, a closed single-frame grille, sleek fenders, sculpted doors, and large alloy wheels. At the same time, the glass area and door handles are likely to be borrowed from Toyota.
Interior and technology
The cabin is expected to feature more premium materials compared to Toyota, although technical solutions such as the 14-inch infotainment display may be shared. A three-row layout is anticipated, likely with six seats.
Dimensions and platform
The dimensions of the Lexus TZ will most likely be close to those of the Toyota Highlander EV. The latter has a length of 5,050 mm (198.8 inches) and a wheelbase of 3,050 mm (120.1 inches) and is built on a modified version of the TNGA-K architecture.
Powertrains
Back in 2023, Lexus registered the trademarks TZ450e and TZ550e, indicating the possibility of two variants of the electric powertrain. The Toyota twin is available in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions, with outputs of 221 hp and 338 hp respectively. Battery options include a base 77 kWh pack and a larger 95.8 kWh pack, providing a range of up to 320 miles (515 km).
Competitors and price
Competitors for the new electric SUV include the Kia EV9, Hyundai Ioniq 9, and Volvo EX90. Of course, it will be more expensive than the Toyota Highlander EV, whose starting price is expected to be between $50,000 and $55,000.
Premiere date and markets
The presentation will be streamed on YouTube on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. Japan Standard Time, which corresponds to Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 9:30 p.m. Eastern Time. In addition to North America, the model will also be sold in the Japanese market. Regarding production, some sources point to the United States, others to Japan.
Thus, Lexus is taking an important step in the large electric SUV segment, offering a premium alternative to the mass-market Toyota model. The use of a proven platform and a wide selection of powertrains should ensure competitiveness in a market where players like Kia and Hyundai are already present. The entry into the Japanese market also indicates the model’s global ambitions, although the final production location remains a point of intrigue.