2020 Lexus RX 350 Review
2020 Lexus RX 350 Review





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2020 Lexus RX 350 Review

byCameron Rogers
Manager, News
Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Today, he leads the news team in developing cutting-edge news articles, opinion pieces and sneak peeks at upcoming vehicles. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at Edmunds include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).
Pros
- Attractive cabin with top-quality materials and construction
- Ride quality makes almost any road feel smooth
- Advanced safety features come standard
- Wide cargo bay makes it easy to load luggage and groceries
Cons
- Touchpad controller is distracting to use
- Real-world fuel economy lags behind estimates
What's new
- Revised front and rear styling
- Slightly sportier handling
- New touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- More standard safety features
- Part of the fourth RX generation introduced for 2016
Overview
The 2020 Lexus RX 350 is a solid entry in the midsize SUV class, offering a roomy and comfortable cabin and typically excellent build quality. But we have been let down by this generation's anonymous driving experience and poorly thought-out infotainment system controller. Lexus hopes the improvements it made to this year's RX will rectify these shortcomings.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Lexus RX 350 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.57 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$193/mo for RX 350 Base
RX 350 Base
vs
$210/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
Lexus says it retuned the suspension and stiffened the body structure to give the RX a slightly sportier feel when driven around turns while still keeping ride comfort paramount. The F Sport's sport suspension — which previously resulted in a far harsher ride in exchange for minimal performance gains — has been modified as well.
Inside the cabin, Lexus has swapped out the mouse-like controller for a new trackpad. It's better but can still be overly distracting to use while driving. The display screen is also new. It's now a touchscreen, meaning you can avoid using the trackpad by touching the various menus and buttons. Lexus also repositioned the screen to be nearly 6 inches closer to the driver, so reaching the screen doesn't require a stretch. Finally, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also on board this year as standard equipment. These changes go a long way toward improving the RX 350's tech cred.
The 2020 Lexus RX 350 is more competitive than ever, with drastic quality-of-life improvements that make it a more appealing buy than last year's model. Previously an also-ran in the midsize luxury crossover segment, the RX has graduated to become a respectable offering in the class.
Which RX 350 does Edmunds recommend?
Though we prefer the F Sport's more aggressive yet still comfortable sport seats, the base Lexus RX 350 is more well-rounded and appeals to a broader set of buyers. The Navigation package is worth getting because it adds the sharp-looking 12.3-inch display, an upgraded audio system, and onboard navigation for when your adventures take you to locales with spotty cellular service.
2020 Lexus RX 350 models
The 2020 Lexus RX 350 is available in base and F Sport versions. They both come with a 3.5-liter V6 engine (295 horsepower, 267 lb-ft of torque) paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional.
The base is equipped with features such as a power liftgate, dual-zone automatic climate control, simulated leather upholstery, adaptive cruise control, a suite of driver safety aids (Lexus' Safety System+ 2.0), an 8-inch touchscreen, and a nine-speaker sound system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration is also standard this year.
A couple of packages — Premium and Luxury — are available to boost up the RX's features list. Notable additions from them include a sunroof, bigger wheels, heated and ventilated front seats, and leather upholstery.
The F Sport includes the Premium package's contents plus sportier exterior styling, a sport-tuned suspension, sport front seats, and unique interior trim. The optional F Sport Performance package adds adaptive suspension dampers and specially tuned steering.
For both versions, Lexus offers a Navigation package, which gets you a navigation system, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and either a 12-speaker sound system or an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson system. Other worthwhile options to consider are blind-spot monitoring, power-folding second-row seats and a hands-free liftgate.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 Lexus RX 350.
5 star(63%)
4 star(13%)
3 star(10%)
2 star(12%)
1 star(2%)
55 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
Love it
Jjrmca, 10/24/2019
2020 Lexus RX 350 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A)
I don't know where to begin. I got rid of a 2018 Mercedes GLC 300 because the run flat tires needed to be replaced at 13000 miles and none of the embrace mobile app features ever worked through matter how many times the car was serviced.
Now I have my brand new 2020 RX350 the remote app worked the 1st time and every time.
There is no alternative to use the fob to start the car.
That … works. The seats are super comfortable the cargo area is very convenient and at a good height. There is lots of Room for passengers and the floors flat making it a truly 3 person back seat. The technology and safety features are remarkable how full and very protective. The screen has been move forward 5" from the previous year and has touchscreen
Features.
It was so simple to set everything up there are 1 or 2 things that need to be reviewed but if you simply go to YouTube and ask the question you find out how to solve the problem. I couldn't be more happy with my purchase and I'm so glad that I am done with the other the vehicle.
I did add the luxury premium package so that I could have the cross traffic and I'm very glad that I did that. I programmed the remote for the gate where I live and it worked the 1st time. I think they really worked out all of the issues from the previous year and took seriously all the comments and made all of the modifications.
5 out of 5 stars
Avid RX owner
Wendy, 12/08/2019
2020 Lexus RX 350 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A)
I drive extensively and this is my fifth RX. Yes number 5, when you drive to remote areas it all about realizability. Previously I had the 2015 RX which drove fine but had slot of temperamental electronics. The new 2020 has premium package offers every safety feature, brake hold, cross traffic front and rear, blind spot warning you name it. I do love the heated steering wheel, and the … auto heated seats. The app works great for remote start and locking. My only comment is I think the car sounds a bit tinny when you run it through the car was and at times when closing the doors, I hope the body is still as rugged as my previous models. Highly recommend.
5 out of 5 stars
Wonderful vehicle
Dr BobP, 11/02/2019
2020 Lexus RX 350 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A)
The RX 350 is the best car I've ever owned. Extremely comfortable, roomy, and a great highway ride. My last car was a BMW 430ix which couldn't make it past 38,000 miles without a major drivetrain malfunction. I am looking forward to many years of Lexus enjoyment. Major pluses for me are the safety features, the touchscreen and the wonderful ride. If it handles the snow as well as … I anticipate, I will be overjoyed with my purchase.
5 out of 5 stars
Update 12-27-20...still ‘bullet proof’!
Zogman, 12/26/2019
2020 Lexus RX 350 F SPORT 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A)
The last 2015 RX350 saved me from certain horrible injury...a person ran a red light and spun me around more than 360 deg. That vehicle did everything it was supposed to! So I bought another one. Man what smooth ride, nicely fitting seats (F-Sport)....and the technology is far more than I ever dreamed in a vehicle.
I love love love this SUV!
Update: Just turned 12,000 miles...I don’t … think you can beat this SUV- not too big-not too small! Great vehicle!!
2020 Lexus RX 350 video
[MUSIC PLAYING] TRAVIS LANGNESS: If you've been in the market for a luxury crossover any time in the last 20 years, you're probably familiar with what's behind me. The Lexus RX. This is the new 2020 RX 350, the F sport in this particular case. It's got some new details. We're going to check out what this mid-cycle refresh is all about and see what's new. [MUSIC PLAYING] Since it's one of Lexus' top selling models, and one of the top selling luxury vehicles in America, they haven't really messed with the formula on this one. There are small changes to the front bumper and headlights, as well as the rear bumper, exhaust pipes, but the profile of this car stays the same. It was only redesigned four years ago, so they're not going to mess with success. And that's it on the outside. Sure, you get some new wheels, but if you see the 2019 and 2020 model next to each other in a parking lot, you might have a hard time telling them apart. That's because the side profile is pretty much the same. But everything up front looks a little bit sleeker, more grown up, which is strange to say about a luxury vehicle. I think it's a big improvement for this Lexus. Under the hood, you get the same choice of engines as you did last year. There's a 3.5 liter V6 that puts out about 295 horsepower, as well as another 3.5 liter V6 paired with two electric motors for the hybrid model. That puts out about 310 horsepower. Both of those engines get the same horsepower and fuel economy ratings as the previous model year. Under the car and the suspension bits things have changed a little bit more. The F-sport is actually now broken into two different packages. You can get the appearance package or the performance package. And the performance package includes an adaptive suspension sourced from the Lexus LC. They're big sporty grand coupe. On the safety front, there's new equipment too. All Lexus RX models get the Safety System Plus 2.0, which includes cool stuff like Cyclist Detection and Pedestrian Detection. Great when you add it to the already full list of safety features available on our models. Along with the tech updates and the things on the outside, there's some styling changes on the inside in the form of a couple of new interior colors like this red, as well as a couple of different options for paint. You also get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A first for this car. As well as this 12.3 inch optional touchscreen that moves 5 and 1/2 inches closer to the driver, not just controlled by this frustrating to use touchpad. That's going to be a big difference and might just change the game for the RX. So should you buy a new 2020 Lexus RX? Well, depends on what you want out of your luxury crossover. This one's well rounded. It's got lots of great standard and optional equipment, but it's not the sportiest in the bunch, despite the F-sport name. Other vehicles like the Audi Q5 might be better at that. And if you're looking at the long version, the RX 350L, you might look at something with more space in the back like an Audi Q7 or an XC 90 from Volvo. Those are going to be less cramped in the third row. And if you're looking at hybrid models, we also recommend a vehicle like the Acura MDX Sport Hybrid or the XC 90 T8 hybrid. But if you want a well-rounded luxury crossover, take a look at the RX. We think it's worth your time. For all the details on the RX 350, the F-sport, the 3-row version, and all of the RX models, go to edmunds.com. Take a look at our First Looks. Also for videos like this, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel, and check us out on Facebook and Instagram.
2020 Lexus RX First Look
Halfway through its current life cycle, the Lexus RX is getting a mild refresh in the form of some styling, tech and equipment updates. The 2020 Lexus RX acquires new headlights, a new front and rear fascia, and the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard equipment. The… standard RX 350 model all the way up to the Lexus RX 450h hybrid and its three-row variant, the RX 450hL, also receive suspension and chassis updates to improve ride quality and steering responsiveness. The optional 12.3-inch infotainment screen has also been moved closer to the driver and given touchscreen capability, a change that should make the system much easier to use.
2020 RX 350 Highlights
Base
Base MSRP | $44,150 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 23 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $193/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 18.4 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the RX 350 models:
- Lexus Safety System+ 2.0
- Bundle includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation with automatic braking, and lane keeping assist.
- Lexus Enform Safety Connect
- This system can automatically alert emergency services in the event of a crash or distress. Also includes a stolen-vehicle locator.
- Panoramic View Monitor
- The panoramic rearview camera maximizes the 12.3-inch widescreen display and gives a broad look at what's behind you before you back up.
NHTSA Overall Rating
4 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover17.9%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestGood
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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