2027 Lexus TZ Looks Nothing Like the Toyota Highlander

The all-new Lexus TZ is basically the Lexus version of the new Toyota Highlander EV and Subaru Getaway. While the Subaru and Toyota models seem to share almost everything, Toyota apparently gave the Lexus version its own design, inside and out. Which is a very nice effort indeed.

They didn’t just slap a Lexus front end on the Toyota Highlander, unlike what they seem to have done with the Subaru. The Lexus TZ actually gets its own body panels, lighting design, and a much more distinctive overall appearance. The interior is also very different. Something I honestly didn’t think Toyota would do. It is quite a surprise, and a very smart move. The Toyota interior already looks pretty upscale, but the Lexus version appears even more luxurious, with richer materials, unique screens, ambient lighting, and a much cleaner dashboard design.

Toyota also squeezed more power out of the electric powertrain. The TZ reportedly gets around 420 horsepower instead of 338 horsepower in the Toyota model. The same battery packs are available, however. Unfortunately, charging speed is still limited to just 150 kW, which is now behind many other modern upscale EVs from brands like Hyundai, Kia, and even Mercedes-Benz. The range is still rated at “up to” 300 miles, which is perfectly acceptable, but not exactly class-leading anymore.

And somehow, it seems some versions come with the ability to produce a fake V10 engine sound. Which might honestly be one of the lamest gimmicks ever added to a luxury EV. I really don’t understand why anyone buying a quiet electric Lexus would want artificial supercar noises pumped through the speakers.

The design itself is fine, but also a little weird at times. From the side profile, the double crease behind the front wheels looks oddly heavy-handed and unnecessarily complicated. Besides that detail, the profile is actually pretty clean and modern looking. The overall shape is angular and blocky, which clearly seems to be the current trend for new Lexus models. Some people will love the aggressive look, while others might miss the smoother and more elegant shapes Lexus used to offer.

I think Toyota did a very good job making sure the new Lexus TZ doesn’t look too much like the “cheaper” Highlander EV. And that distinction is extremely important in the luxury market. Still, the Toyota Highlander EV might end up being all the luxury SUV most buyers will ever really need, especially if it offers nearly the same practicality, technology, and driving range for thousands less.