2020 Lexus RX Gets Revised Looks And A Touchscreen Along With Apple CarPlay And Android Auto

Lexus has updated the RX for the 2020 model year with a host of styling modifications and new features.

The exterior design is the first element of the facelifted 2020 RX which jumps out. The front adopts a slightly cleaner design with slimmer headlights and new foglights incorporated into the base of the bumper. Lexus’ traditional spindle grille is still present while out back there are fewer changes, but you may notice different reflectors and sharper taillights. Lexus has also designed new 18- and 20-inch wheels for the SUV while adding Moonbeam Beige Metallic and Nori Green Pearl to the paint options.

New infotainment touchscreen inside

Arguably the most significant alterations made to the 2020 RX are found in the cabin. All new models come standard with an 8-inch infotainment screen with touchscreen functionality and buyers have the option of upgrading this to a 12.3-inch touchscreen. This is big news for Lexus as the brand’s other current models don’t feature touchscreens and have to be operated through the hit-and-miss trackpad. Interestingly, the 2020 RX retains the trackpad should users prefer it over the touchscreen.

Another significant update to the RX is found within the software of the infotainment system which now offers support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Toyota and Lexus are late to the party with these systems but they’re finally here. Lexus says that the new RX also includes a more advanced voice-recognition system which has the ability to recognize millions more phrases than conventional Lexus systems.

Also Read: Driven: 2019 Lexus LC500 Limited Edition Is A Master Of All Trades

From a mechanical standpoint, the new SUV receives lightweight front and rear stabilizer bars with reinforced bushings to reduce body roll and improve steering response. There are also stiffer roll bars and re-tuned shock absorbers. The car manufacturer says these suspension upgrades also reduce noise and vibration from the road.

The 2020 RX comes loaded with various safety features as standard, including Road Sign Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Daytime bicyclist detection, All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and an enhanced Pre-Collision System.

Those looking for a sporty RX model will be pleased to hear that two F Sport packages are offered for the Lexus RX, one of which focuses purely on aesthetics while the second combines visual tweaks with mechanical modifications. This latter F Sport package includes a cold air intake, active sound control, Electric Power Steering, and a heated steering wheel. Other alterations include front and rear performance dampers and a Drive Mode selector with Sport+ and Custom drive modes.

Models sold in the United States will include the Lexus RX 350L, 450 h, and 450 hL, the latter of two which use a 3.5-liter V6 alongside a trio of electric motors delivering 308 hp through all four wheels. The non-hybrid models have a 295 hp 3.5-liter V6. Production will start in the third quarter of this year.