2020 Lexus RX

We’re off to Costa Rica driving the 2020 Lexus RX. Since being introduced in 1998, the RX has become the brand’s most popular model… developing a strong following over the competition in the midsize luxury utility segment. For 2020, the RX gets a slight refresh that still goes beyond the usual tweaks to the front and rear fascias.

“The RX is popular in this luxury segment for a variety of reasons like a plush environment and comfortable ride. But engineers have gone even further… they returned the shock absorbers… made the roll bars stiffer and they’ve updated the dampers. They’re also using what they call laser screw welds in between the spot welds… as well as more structural adhesives. The idea is to create a more rigid vehicle with a firmer suspension… but the luxurious ride that easily and quietly absorbs the imperfections on the road is still very much here.”

Powertrains do remain the same. The refined 3.5-liter V6 produces 295-horsepower… matched with an 8-speed automatic smoothly sending power to the front wheels or all four. Hybrid gasoline-electric hardware increases output to 308-horsepower with a CVT and standard all-wheel drive. 

Inside, the RX is the first Lexus equipped with Android Auto along with Apple CarPlay. The still fussy touch control pad is now paired with a new touchscreen that responds more accurately. Lexus’ new Safety System+ 2.0 is also standard.

We expect the price to start around $44,000 when the 2020 Lexus RX goes on sale later this year.