We cannot take the electric Highlander, but we will get to see its high-brow equivalent for the private school run.

THE all-electric Toyota Highlander seems set to be coming to New Zealand after all next year - but in a fully glam form that’s likely to position far above the average family spend.

That’s because the three-row, fully electric platform that underpins Highlander in (and purely for) North America has been appropriated by Lexus, whose version has been signed up for release here, likely landing in the first half of 2027.

The TZ SUV is the largest electric car yet from Toyota’s premium team.

It will site above the RZ, which has just gone on sale here, including with a version that has drive by wire steering operated by an aviation-themed steering yoke, rather than an orthodox wheel.

At 5100mm long, 1990mm wide, 1705mm tall the TZ occupies similar road space to the Lexus LX large sports utility. The 3050mm long wheelbase lends additional 300mm between the wheels compared with the RZ.

In most markets, the TZ will use a 95.82kWh lithium ion battery for up to 530km of range as measured to European WLTP. A 76.96kWh battery will also be offered in some markets. What’s coming here has not been spelled out.

According to Lexus, the TZ can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in as little as 35 minutes using a 150kW fast charger.

In its dual-motor all-wheel drive form, the model has 300kW of power and is good to hit 100kmh in just 5.4 seconds, according to Lexus information out of Japan and North America.

Optional four-wheel steering will apparently enhance the TZ’s driving experience, while synthetic engine noises - replicating the V10 in a Lexus LFA - will also be available.

The interior includes recycled aluminium and forged bamboo, which “reflects Lexus’ commitment to sustainable craftsmanship and traditional techniques”.

Other available features in the Lexus TZ include suede upholsteries, a panoramic glass roof, 20-to-22-inch alloy wheels, a 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, soft-closing doors, power-folding second- and third-row seats and even powered ottomans.

Electrics are quiet; the TZ is even moreso. Lexus employed sound-absorbing materials, vibration frequency offsetting design elements, and aerodynamic mirrors to create what they say is the quietest cabin among Lexus SUVs. Sorry, by cabin we mean ‘driving lounge’ (in Lexus-speak).

Second-row seats offer ventilation and power ottomans is a Lexus SUV first. The third-row seats provide “sofa-like cushioning.”

Access to the third row is eased by flush seat rails and a walk-in button on second-row seats, allowing smooth entry even with child seats installed, the brand says

Lexus New Zealand vice president Andrew Davis recently got to ride in the TZ at a test facility in Japan and was (of course) impressed.

“What stood out immediately was just how smooth and refined it felt. Because it’s built on a dedicated BEV platform, the weight distribution and low centre of gravity make it feel incredibly stable and composed on the road.”

“It really changes the way passengers experience long-distance SUV travel. Everything feels smoother, more natural and more calming, while the cabin itself feels less like a traditional SUV and more like a modern living space.”