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The current generation of the Lexus RX was introduced in 2016. In 2018, Toyota's luxury division expanded its offering by introducing a seven-seater RX L, adding a third row to the best-selling Lexus family. For 2019, the hybrid-powered RX 450h got a new luxury trim package reminiscent of the gasoline RX 350. For 2020 The Made in Canada RX got an update to the fourth year on the market. This is like a little brushstroke to refresh the style and take the opportunity to slip in some new technological elements.
The RX model is the best-selling Lexus line-up and also one of the best vehicles made at Cambridge, the second car plant on the planet to receive the most awards for excellence in work, the first being another Lexus plant in Japan. That says a lot about the quality of this SUV.
Let's take a look at the 2020 Lexsus RX 350 and see what it has retained in 2020 and what's new this year.
No Change Under The Hood
The 2020 Lexus RX 350 still uses the same 3.5-liter V6 engine developing 290 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The RX 450h hybrid uses the same mechanics, adding a generator for 308 horsepower. In this configuration, the transmission becomes a CVT. All-wheel drive is also standard, with power to the rear wheels by one of the electric motors, the other being integrated into the transmission.
The Tech Updates of Lexus RX
Toyota and Lexus enthusiasts will be happy to hear that the large Toyota family has finally gotten up to speed with the 2020 integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems. Lexus is also upgrading its display to 12.3 inches (8 inches standard) in high-end models. Here is an interesting detail: the new screens are now touchscreen. By touching the screen, you can operate all the commands and even use the voice commands via the Google Assistant which works well. F SPORT packages include sportier electric power steering and heated steering wheel.
The 2020 Lexus RX Is a Rejuvenated Line
You have to be familiar with the brand to tell the difference between a 2019 model and a 2020. Lexus has retouched the front and rear fairings and redesigned the rims from 18 to 20 inches. The tapered triple-beam LED headlamps have also been redesigned for a different and more aggressive visual signature and are standard on Luxury and above trims. In the end, the car offers a more compact style and a slightly sportier look.
The brand's most popular vehicle also saw improved safety, in addition to showing minor cosmetic changes. Both the standard RX and the six- or seven-seater RX L, which appeared in 2018 with an elongated body, are still offered with a conventional gasoline or hybrid V6.
Behind the racy style of the RX hide virtues of comfort and reliability sometimes difficult to find elsewhere in the category.
In the 2020 RX 350 I particularly like the smooth ride and the soundproofing. In fact, when my family first got into this SUV, the soundproofing was the first thing they noticed, expressing their amazement. I recommend it without hesitation for those who like reliability and smoothness.
I can't say much about the maintenance of the 2020 Lexus RX because I had the car only for two week, but for the price-quality ratio I would give it 5 starts, for the performance and road handling, I would give it 5 stars and for gasolin or energy consumption I would give it a four star, as I would reserve the 5 start to its hybrid version.
The Interior Evaluation
The interior of the 2020 Lexus RX is relatively classic. The first two rows easily accommodate 5 adults. Once you get in the vehicle you will immediately appreciate the well-trimmed front seats. Only the wide and high center console "detracts" from the driving position, otherwise ideal for an SUV. The rear seat provides good support, and its 40-20-40 folding backrests enhance the cabin's versatility.
The cargo space is quite long and wide; moreover, one obtains an almost flat surface when folding the rear seatbacks. I made a trip to Sam's Club and got convinced in it.
The main weakness, however, is at the other front of the cabin. It's kind of irritating that the touchscreen (12.3 inch) is rather remote. Lexus does this in most of its models. Even one of my passengers, who owns an older Lexus, noticed this. But you can also rely on the physical buttons, which Lexus thankfully kept in good numbers on the dashboard and steering wheel. Or, use Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, which are finally appearing in 2020 models
On thing that I particularly liked in the 2020 Lexus RX 350 is that the traditional lever remains easier to handle than the competition's levers or switches. Lexus added USB ports this year (for a total of six) and a vertical mobile device locker, but storage is still more generous in a Highlander, the equivalent-sized SUV from parent company Toyota. Despite the off-putting on-board computer, the relatively classic interior layout could appeal to some buyers confused by the futuristic presentations of European competition. One thing is certain, the neat materials and the impeccable assembly always testify to a high quality of construction. I also wish Lexus added a wireless phone chargers.
The visibility in the 2020 Lexus RX 350 is good forward thanks to the relatively narrow roof pillars and small triangular windows in front of the mirrors. The wide side and rear pillars, as well as the tilted window, obstruct the glance in the other directions. The blind spot monitoring, standard, gives a good boost. Regarding the headlights: both the standard single LED headlamps and the triple LED beam units included in all optional packages have received an acceptable rating (3 out of 4) from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS); they usually illuminate a good distance, except in left turns in crossover mode.
Some of The Main Specs and Configurations of the 2020 Lexus RX 350
- Model: 2020 Lexus RX
- MSRP: From $44,150
- Dimensions: 193-197″ L x 75″ W x 67-68″ H
- MPG: Up to 20 city / 27 highway
- Horsepower: 295 hp
- Cargo volume: 6.22 to 18.4 ft³, 34.11 to 58.48 ft³ with seat area
- Curb weight: 4,222 to 4,387 lbs
- SUV: $44,150
- 350 AWD SUV: $45,550
Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebok, Linkedin and Youtube.
Reference: Journal Metro, Auto123,
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