Photo: Lexus
Described as “the original luxury crossover” by Lexus themselves, the RX enters 2020 with a higher starting price than ever before. American customers need to shell out $44,150 excluding delivery charge for the 350 while the 350L with seven seats is $47,300 in this part of the world.
The Acura MDX springs to mind as the closest competitor to the Lexus, and for 2020, the three-row crossover with 290 horsepower will set you back $44,400. The question is, is the Lexus a better choice?
It is in many ways, starting with the 2GR-FKS naturally aspirated V6 of the 350. The 3.5-liter engine develops 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet from the get-go, translating to an Acura-matching 23 miles to the gallon on the combined cycle thanks to an eight-speed automatic tranny.
Level up to the 450h and 450hL, and you’re treated to “powerful reminders of the brand’s hybrid leadership.” Lexus quotes a combined output of 308 horsepower and an EPA estimate of 30 and 29 miles to the gallon on the combined cycle. Pretty impressive for a mid-size crossover, alright!
The 3.5-liter V6 is paired with the Lexus Hybrid Drive in these applications, meaning that two electric motors/generators are working together with the engine to maximize efficiency. The second electric drive unit takes care of the rearmost axle, thus providing all-wheel drive when needed.
New for 2020 are two exterior colors, namely Moonbeam Beige Metallic and Nori Green Pearl. Two new wheel designs (18 and 19 inches) as well as NuLuxe upholstery across all trim levels are also available. F Sport models can be optioned with Circuit Red while the non-F Sport is available in Birch. Customers going for the more spacious RXL are further treated to matte and open-pore wood ornamentation throughout the crossover’s cabin.
“The best-selling Lexus RX continues to be a focus for the brand’s innovation and a lasting favorite of our guests. The new 2020 model builds on the guest satisfaction and refinement this groundbreaking luxury crossover has carried since its introduction more than 20 years ago,” declared David Christ, group vice president and general manager.
It is in many ways, starting with the 2GR-FKS naturally aspirated V6 of the 350. The 3.5-liter engine develops 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet from the get-go, translating to an Acura-matching 23 miles to the gallon on the combined cycle thanks to an eight-speed automatic tranny.
Level up to the 450h and 450hL, and you’re treated to “powerful reminders of the brand’s hybrid leadership.” Lexus quotes a combined output of 308 horsepower and an EPA estimate of 30 and 29 miles to the gallon on the combined cycle. Pretty impressive for a mid-size crossover, alright!
The 3.5-liter V6 is paired with the Lexus Hybrid Drive in these applications, meaning that two electric motors/generators are working together with the engine to maximize efficiency. The second electric drive unit takes care of the rearmost axle, thus providing all-wheel drive when needed.
New for 2020 are two exterior colors, namely Moonbeam Beige Metallic and Nori Green Pearl. Two new wheel designs (18 and 19 inches) as well as NuLuxe upholstery across all trim levels are also available. F Sport models can be optioned with Circuit Red while the non-F Sport is available in Birch. Customers going for the more spacious RXL are further treated to matte and open-pore wood ornamentation throughout the crossover’s cabin.
“The best-selling Lexus RX continues to be a focus for the brand’s innovation and a lasting favorite of our guests. The new 2020 model builds on the guest satisfaction and refinement this groundbreaking luxury crossover has carried since its introduction more than 20 years ago,” declared David Christ, group vice president and general manager.
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