Lexus TZ vs Kia EV9: Japan’s Battle for the Three-Row Electric Throne

Lexus TZ vs. Kia EV9: Japan’s Battle for the Three-Row Electric Throne

The race to dominate the electric three-row SUV segment just got a lot more interesting. Lexus is stepping into the arena with the upcoming TZ, a full-size battery-powered SUV aimed squarely at competitors like the Kia EV9, which has already made waves with its design, tech, and value proposition.

While Lexus hasn’t officially revealed the TZ yet, trademarks and leaks suggest that it’ll be offered in TZ450e and TZ550e variants—mirroring the brand’s typical naming conventions for power and drivetrain configuration.

So the big question: is the Lexus TZ shaping up to be the EV9 killer everyone’s anticipating? Let’s unpack what we know.

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• Lexus TZ will be a full-size, three-row electric SUV positioned above the RZ, likely based on the upcoming Toyota bZ5X.

• Expected to come in TZ450e and TZ550e trims, possibly featuring dual-motor AWD and advanced Lexus tech.

• It aims to challenge the Kia EV9, which currently leads in this space with competitive pricing and bold design.

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A Lexus That Finally Goes Big—Electrically

Lexus is no stranger to electrification, but the RZ 450e didn’t quite shake the market. The TZ aims to change that. It’s expected to ride on the e-TNGA platform, a shared Toyota-Lexus EV architecture that also underpins the RZ and Toyota’s upcoming bZ5X—which, in all likelihood, will be its Toyota-branded sibling.

Trademark filings point to TZ450e and TZ550e, suggesting different output levels and potentially a dual-motor setup. While exact figures remain under wraps, don’t be surprised to see outputs anywhere between 300–400 hp, with extended range batteries to ensure family-hauling practicality.

And just like the Lexus TX (which shares a platform with the Toyota Grand Highlander), the TZ will likely inherit a lot of packaging and creature comforts, but with the typical Lexus twist—think advanced ambient lighting, plush interiors, and a focus on refinement.

Artist's Impression Of Lexus TZ

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Kia EV9: The Benchmark It Has to Beat

The Kia EV9 has caught global attention for doing something few automakers dared: bringing a bold, geometric three-row EV to market at a relatively accessible price.

It comes with both RWD and AWD powertrains, multiple trims, and even a GT-Line variant. Pricing undercuts luxury EV rivals, making it the benchmark for the segment—at least for now.

So where does Lexus plan to win?

Strategic Positioning: Lexus Plays Premium

If the EV9 is the mass-market warrior, the Lexus TZ wants to be the silent assassin—delivering a more premium ride, refined materials, and possibly, longer-term reliability and dealership support. Think of it more like a rival to the Rivian R1S or Volvo EX90, rather than a budget fighter.

Also, Lexus has its “Lexus Electrified” vision in motion, which promises new design language, better driving dynamics, and tech-forward interiors. Expect the TZ to serve as a halo product that extends this ethos into the full-size family EV category.

Kia EV9 Side View

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Comparing Lexus TZ vs. Kia EV9 (What We Know So Far)

Feature	Lexus TZ (Expected)	Kia EV9
Powertrain Options	TZ450e, TZ550e – Dual Motor AWD likely	RWD & AWD, 76.1–99.8 kWh batteries
Seating	3 Rows	3 Rows
Platform	e-TNGA (shared with bZ5X)	E-GMP
Interior Focus	Luxury, Lexus-grade refinement	Bold, tech-forward, slightly utilitarian
Tech & Safety	Lexus Teammate, advanced ADAS likely	Highway Driving Pilot (Level 3, Korea)
Market Position	Premium (vs. Rivian/Volvo)	Mid-range accessible luxury
Estimated Launch	2025	Already on sale

Why It Matters

The arrival of the TZ will not only fill a glaring gap in Lexus’s EV lineup—it may also redefine what a luxury electric SUV should look and feel like in this fast-maturing segment. But time is crucial. The longer Lexus waits, the more ground competitors like Kia, Hyundai, Volvo, and Rivian will gain.

What gives Lexus an edge, however, is its brand trust, dealer network, and arguably more timeless design DNA. If they nail the formula—especially in terms of range, pricing, and performance—it could very well set a new standard for what a three-row EV luxury SUV can be.

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Final Thoughts

The Lexus TZ is still wrapped in a fair bit of mystery—but every piece of the puzzle suggests it’s being groomed to take on (and upscale) the EV9 formula. Whether it ends up as a tech-laden premium cruiser or a safe, family-first hauler with luxury polish, one thing’s clear: Lexus is done watching from the sidelines.

We’ll be watching this one closely.

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Source: Newautopost