(June 3, 2019) LOS ANGELES — The pioneer of the luxury crossover segment is receiving an update — inside and out — for the 2020 model year. The new 2020 Lexus RX and RXL three-row get improved driving dynamics, an updated Lexus Multimedia System, additional standard safety features and elevated styling that bring a new sophistication to the RX lineup.

All 2020 Lexus RX models feature updated exterior styling that includes revised front and rear fascias and a new standard 18-inch wheel design. Triple-beam LED headlamps have also been redesigned as an option. Inside, an available 12.3-inch touchscreen paired with the remote touch pad supports added dynamic voice and navigation functionality. The updated Lexus Multimedia System now includes advanced in-dash technology to simplify a guest’s life, such as Apple CarPlay integration for the iPhone.
 
“The new 2020 Lexus RX improves our best-selling vehicle with a focus on the future of the brand – one of sophisticated, yet bold, design,” said Lisa Materazzo, vice president of Lexus marketing. “We heard very positive feedback from our U.S. guests about their experience in the RX, and we worked to improve upon the success with key areas of focus.”
 
The updated front and rear fascias of the new 2020 Lexus RX and RXL reflect the latest design themes of the brand with a balance between sophistication and strength.
 
Starting with the signature grille, a symbol of the Lexus brand and distinctive “face” of the vehicle, the designers created an elaborate look based on an L-motif. Each individual block has a different shape and angle to create a varying form that balances a strong yet elegant image. The angles of the grille surround are also echoed by the angles used at each corner of the bumper to smooth the visual flow across the front.


 
The slimmer headlamps add a sharper look up front while the rear taillamps also utilize an “L” motif across the top that is reflected by inverted “L’s” across the bottom. Framed by the dual exhaust, rear diffuser and updated angle of the reflectors, the sharp and rounded edges on the 2020 Lexus RX are accentuated. Adding more utility to the rear of the vehicle, the power back door is now activated by an optional kick sensor to open and close faster.
 
Through in-car integrations with voice services like Amazon Alexa, guests can access their preferred service and play music, check the news, control smart home devices and more. With the addition of a designated space to store smartphones near the front of the center console, guests can better utilize space to secure their personal items and still engage with the Lexus Multimedia System.
 
The Lexus Multimedia System touchscreen offers control of audio and climate systems in addition to providing a view of what’s behind the vehicle via the backup camera. Guests will have the option to choose between the standard 8-inch display and available 12.3-inch high-resolution, split-screen multimedia display.
 
The 2020 Lexus RX crossover receives several changes designed to enhance the driving dynamics across the lineup. Both the front and rear stabilizer bars are now hollow to reduce weight, yet their thicker diameters and reinforced bushings help reduce body roll and improve steering response. The shock absorbers have been re-tuned to work with the stiffer roll bars, while upgraded dampers feature a new friction control device that helps to control high frequency vibrations for a smoother ride.
 
To further refine the 2020 Lexus RX responsiveness, a stiffer suspension design reduces the noise and vibration from the road. Even on turns, the added active corner braking will prevent understeering by braking the inner tire and providing more stability to the vehicle handling. Additional rigidity was achieved through additional spot welds and adhesive.
 
Lexus introduced the world’s first luxury hybrid vehicle — a gas/electric version of the RX luxury-utility vehicle — more than a decade ago. The RX 450h and RX 450hL continue to serve as a powerful reminder of the brand’s hybrid leadership, with 308 combined system horsepower for powerful performance and impressive manufacturer-estimated 30 mpg for RX and 29 mpg on RXL combined mpg.

The Lexus Hybrid Drive system pairs the D4-S fuel injection 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with two high-torque electric drive motor-generators for strong acceleration and passing performance. Instead of transfer gears and a driveshaft to the rear wheels, the all-weather drive system employs a second, independent electric motor to drive the rear wheels when needed to help maintain optimal traction.
 
The new 2020 RX and RXL will start production in the third quarter of 2019. Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date.