Lexus also gave the RX big tech upgrades.
Call it an evolution, rather than an out-and-out all-new model. The 2020 Lexus RX represents the next chapter in the crossover’s design, showing off some exterior updates as well as some new tech. Rather than taking the radical approach, Lexus aimed to set right all of the problems their customers had with the old model.
To that end, the 2020 Lexus RX and three-row RXL sport redesigned front and rear fascias. The model also gets a new style of standard 18-inch wheels. The new front bumper gives the area around the fog lights some more real estate, dialing back the emphasis from the massive grille for which this generation RX is famous. The redesigned triple-beam headlights, shown above, are available as an option.
An 8.0-inch touchscreen display comes standard, while the larger 12.3-inch version is what Lexus wants you to see. Unlike the previous model, the 2020 Lexus RX is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Amazon Alexa is also part of the package, as has been the case with recent redesigns like the ES sedan. Lexus reworked its Dynamic Voice Command system to recognize more phrases than the older systems.
Performance
The 2020 Lexus RX 350 and RX 450h, and their three-row “L” variants, get the same powertrains as before. The RX 350 uses a naturally-aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine pushing out 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. The RX 450h attaches that 3.5-liter V6 to a hybrid system, resulting in 308 combined horsepower. More to the point, the hybrid returns 30 mpg.
The 2020 Lexus RX does sport some updated underpinnings under the skin. Lexus says the front and rear stabilizer bars are thicker, but also hollow to reduce weight. Reinforced bushings help deal with the large crossover’s body roll. The car has a stiffer suspension setup, to improve the car’s dynamics and handle road noise and vibration.
For this new model year, however, Lexus refreshed the F Sport package. Alongside the simple appearance package, there’s also a performance package. The F Sport Performance package includes retuned active variable suspension with new performance dampers and drive modes, including a Sport+ setting. The package also includes a cold air intake, active sound control, a heated steering wheel and electric power steering. Circuit Red interior is unique to the F Sport package, among the other standard interior colors.
Each 2020 Lexus RX comes with the standard suite of safety equipment, in the form of Lexus Safety System+ 2.0. Road Sign Assist, daytime bicyclist detection and low-light pedestrian detection add to the Pre-Collision System and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
The updated 2020 Lexus RX goes on sale in fall 2019. Lexus will announce pricing closer to that reveal date. Check out our video on TFLnow to see more above.
