2020 Lexus RX 350L Review

As three-row SUVs have proliferated in the market, the absence of a proper three-row in the Lexus lineup has been conspicuous. Lexus addressed that recently by stretching its bread-and-butter midsize RX, adding a third row of seats, and calling it the RX L.

The large 2020 Lexus RX 350L is essentially identical to the RX (there's also a stretched hybrid, the RX 450hL, reviewed separately). It has the same properly luxurious interior, high-quality fit and finish, and serene and silent cabin. It's also powered by the same strong and respectably fuel-efficient V6 engine.

For 2020, the RX gets some noteworthy updates, including firmer suspension settings that promise livelier steering and handling, along with reduced road noise and vibration. But the RX L's new infotainment system is the most significant improvement.

Lexus has finally moved away from its Remote Touch interface, with its maddening mouse-meets-joystick controller, and settled instead on a sensible touchpad for making selections. We've sampled this interface in other newer Lexus cars, and while moving the on-screen cursor is still a bit awkward, it's leaps better than the earlier alternative. Even better, the display screen now has touchscreen capability, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration is also finally included as standard equipment.

Upgrades aside, the RX 350L doesn't quite measure up against three-row rivals such as the Acura MDX, Infiniti QX60 and Land Rover Discovery — SUVs that feel as if the third row is baked into the design. These competitors can more comfortably seat adults in the very back, while the RX L's third row is more suited to children. But if all you need is an RX with a little extra cargo space or the ability to carry a couple extra kids in a pinch, the RX 350L should satisfy.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350L is a midsize luxury crossover available in a single trim level. It's powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine (290 horsepower, 263 lb-ft of torque), an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is optional.