Despite the fact that many reports were suggesting a redesign in the near future, it looks like that the Japanese luxury carmaker is definitely about to stick to its usual production cycle, which in practice means that the current generation will carry on for a couple of more years. However, that doesn’t mean that the 2020 Lexus RX 350 will come without changes. This is the Lexus’ best-selling crossover and also one of the most popular models in the class of mid-size SUVs, which is considered as one of the hottest in the automotive industry these days. Therefore, it seems logical to see a refresh for the next year. For this occasion, the company has prepared a nice amount of changes, starting from a couple of visual updates. Also, there are some pretty interesting upgrades in terms of mechanics, as well as new features on the inside.
2020 Lexus RX 350 Changes
This update brings a lot of novelties. The first thing that you’ll notice by looking at the 2020 Lexus RX 350 pictures is that there are some interesting visual novelties. Of course, the most prominent is a new grille, while makes the new model more elegant than before. Also, there is a new set of wheels in the offer. The rear end also comes with a fine amount of novelties.
Still, these are not the only updates for the next year. The thing you can’t see is that there are several mechanical upgrades as well. As you probably know, this crossover is one of the rare Toyota models that still hasn’t switched to a new TNGA platform. Therefore, it’s not strange that experts don’t consider this model particularly athletic. Still, things will be much better after this update, since the 2020 Lexus RX 350 changes include a completely new suspension setup, with upgraded dampers and tweaked tuning for the shock absorbers, new front and rear stabilizers etc.
Interior
When it comes to the 2020 Lexus RX 350 interior, you won’t find too many changes, at least not on the first sight. The overall cabin design is practically the same, with the exception of a couple of new color schemes. That definitely isn’t a bad thing, considering that the RX has always been characterized by a pretty stylish cabin, full of style and quality materials.
Once again, you will have a choice between standard and long wheelbase versions. Base models come with two comfortable rows of seats, while the RX 350L is longer and adds the third row, so seating capacity goes up to seven. Typically for the segment, that third row isn’t particularly comfortable but can do the job just fine for kids, even for adults on shorter trips.
Features
Although the overall interior layout remains pretty much the same, there are some very interesting novelties in terms of standard features. For the 2020 Lexus RX 350 Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not standard across the whole range of models. Also, you can now get an optional 12.3-inch screen, which finally drops Lexus’ frustrating Remote Touch knob and comes as a typical touchscreen.
These are some of the most interesting tech novelties, but the new model also comes with a bunch of new advanced safety systems. This model has already been characterized by a full load of safety features, but the list now extends with systems like daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise control.
2020 Lexus RX 350 Engine
While there are numerous changes in terms of design and features, the powertrain department remains the same. The 2020 Lexus RX 350 continues with a well-known 3.5-liter V6, which packs around 295 horsepower and comes in pair with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which works great. With such amount of power, the crossover is characterized by a pretty strong acceleration and overall performances but that’s not all. This SUV is also great in terms of fuel economy, as it returns around 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. There are great numbers for the class.
If you want something even more economical, go for the RX 450h. This models features slightly more power, 308 hp, but also even better fuel economy, which goes around pretty impressive 30 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
2020 Lexus RX 350 Release Date and Price
Considering that there is a nice number of changes, the upcoming model will come a little bit earlier than usual. According to the latest reports, the 2020 Lexus RX 350 release date will be scheduled for the third quarter of the year. When it comes to the price, base models should go around 44.000 dollars. Some of the key competitors are models like Acura MDX, Mercedes-Benz GLE, BMW X5 etc.