Lexus RX Crossover Tweaks Styling, Adds Tech

Toyota Motor Corp.’s Lexus unit is giving its top-selling RX crossover vehicle a mid-cycle freshening for the 2020 model year.

Styling updates mirror those found in the latest LC coupe and LS sedan. These include a revised grille, slimmer LED headlights and smoother bumpers.

In Europe, the headlights will use Lexus’ new Bladescan system. The technology uses rotating mirrors to more precisely direct LED beams, which the company says enables pedestrian recognition 75% farther down the road. U.S. regulations don’t allow such adaptive lighting systems.

The 2020 model also gets Lexus’ latest pre-collision system with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision warning and traffic-sign recognition. Among the new features are low-light pedestrian detection and enhanced bicyclist detection.

To bolster ride comfort and handling, the shock absorbers have been re-tuned with stiffer roll bars, and the dampers get a new friction control system. The stabilizer bars and bushings also have been redesigned to curb body roll and improve steering response, according to the carmaker.

Interior highlights include an optional 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The standard system is an 8-inch unit that’s teamed with a touchpad mounted into the center console.

The RX is finally getting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone capability. Toyota and Lexus are among the last major car brands to offer such connectivity. Voice commands can be used through Lexus' own system or by using Apple Siri or Google Assistant.

Second-row seats will now be captain’s chairs rather than a full bench. The extended wheelbase RXL variant with three rows is adding more adjustment controls to the back row.

The 3.5-liter V-6 engine will be carried over from the current model, as will the hybrid-electric variant.

Sales are due to start in September. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.