The fourth-generation Lexus RX receives significant updates for the 2020 model year on the safety, multimedia, and chassis fronts.
The RX is Lexus’ most popular crossover, and the 450h is the hybrid version of that vehicle. The five-passenger RX 450h pairs two electric motors with a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine, resulting in output of 308 horsepower. That’s a healthy figure, but what really sets the RX 450h apart is its fuel economy. The EPA estimates that you’ll get 30 mpg combined (31 city/28 highway), trouncing the regular RX 350’s best effort of 23 mpg combined.
Both the two-row RX and larger, three-row RXL ,get a new front and rear fascia and new standard 18-inch wheels highlight the 2020 RX’s new looks. The grille and headlights have been smoothed out a bit, making the front end a bit less aggressive and more elegant in the process. The 2020 Lexus RX also gets a brake-based torque vectoring system the subtly applies the brakes on the inner wheels for better handling and stability through turns. F Sport models get an updated Active Variable Suspension system that’s said to be more responsive than before. Standard F Sport models include performance-tuned dampers as well as Sport+ and custom drive modes, while top-of-the-line F Sports add a cold air intake, active sound control, a special electric power steering system, and a heated steering wheel.
On the safety front, the 2020 Lexus RX gets the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which now includes low-light pedestrian detection and cyclist detection. Lane tracing assist detects road markings and helps center the car when adaptive cruise control is active. When the road lacks clearly marked dividers, the system can follow the vehicle ahead of you in certain conditions.
Lexus will offer the RX in RX 350, RXL 350, RX 450h and RXL 450h variants. The F SPORT package will be available on each model. The vehicle will go on sale in late 2019 and pricing will be announced closer to its on-sale date. The all-electric Jaguar I-Pace and the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid are also worthy rivals.
