Volume 16 Issue 1 » 67
2020 Lexus RX
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Rather than a refresh, Lexus calls the 2020 RX a “reinvention.”
Already available in stores in four distinct grades, there’s a version of
the mid-size luxury crossover for nearly every buyer.
The new offering manages to stay true to its pioneering heritage by
keeping a familiar silhouette while sharpening individual elements
of the exterior. The spindle grille is further evolved, the inner portion
on certain models made up of repeating 3-D “L” shapes.
The angular LED headlamp housings are even thinner for 2020,
floating above much larger corner air inlets. The foglights have been
relocated to the very bottom of the front bumper. The taillamps are
remixed as well, the integrated turn signal portion now featuring a
smoked appearance.
No occupants inside the vehicle should have to strain their eyes
to see what’s on the large high-definition Lexus Display Audio
infotainment screen. An eight-inch monitor is standard, upgradeable
to a 12.3-inch split unit — control is handled via a revised central
touchpad. Users can finally take advantage of Android Auto and
Apple CarPlay that have both been implemented, and two extra
USB ports, for a total of six, in the rear to help keep mobile devices
charged up.
In addition to the standard RX 350 boasting a 3.5-litre V6 engine
producing 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, there’s a 450h
hybrid variant, equipped with a self-charging Atkinson cycle
3.5-litre V6, rated at 259 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. An
eight-speed automatic transmission is paired to the former and the
latter, a continuously variable transmission. All utilize the brand’s
surefooted Active Torque All-Wheel Drive system.
Beginning last year, both the 350 and 450h are now sold in
long-wheelbase formats that add a useful third row of seating.
A large variety of packages may also be applied to the different
models, including the sporty F SPORT option bundling things
like enhanced suspension, premium Mark Levinson stereo, dark-
coloured accents, mesh spindle grille, 20-inch aluminum wheels, and
much more.