Lexus RX facelift revealed

Lexus, Toyota’s luxury marque, has revealed the refreshed RX SUV, which features revised exterior styling, more equipment and a reworked suspension for the 2020 model year. Both, the RX five-seater and the RXL seven-seater models have received this mid-cycle facelift.

On the outside, the RX facelift gets restyled front and rear bumpers, slimmer LED headlights, a reconfigured version of Lexus’ distinctive front grille, a rearranged tailpipe layout and new 18-inch alloys. The headlights themselves are the first to employ Lexus’ new Bladescan technology, which increases forward visibility by projecting LED beams onto mirrors that rotate at high speed. Buyers will also have the option of two new paint shades – Moonbeam Beige Metallic and Nori Green Pearl.

In the cabin, the RX gets an 8.0-inch touchscreen as standard, along with the option of a new 12.3-inch touchscreen, both of which get Lexus’ remote touchpad, voice controls, Apple CarPlay compatibility and navigation functionality. Another talking point on the new RX is the inclusion of Android Auto; it’s first Lexus model to get this feature. Also, the seven-seater RXL model now offers a moveable third row of seats for improved legroom.

Furthermore, Lexus's pre-collision warning system has been upgraded to allow for detection of pedestrians at day and at night, and works in conjunction with traffic sign recognition and adaptive cruise control to enhance the car's autonomous capabilities. 

Lexus has prioritised dynamic handling with the suspension setup on the updated RX; increased use of high-strength adhesives throughout the chassis and the installation of stiffer anti-roll bars are said to improve body rigidity. New shock absorbers have also been fitted to offer a smoother ride over rough surfaces, while a new cornering assistance programme reduces the risk of understeer when accelerating through bends. 

In terms of engines, the RX 450h facelift continues to be powered by a 262hp, 3.5-litre petrol V6 that works in tandem with two electric motors that put out 167hp, which makes for a combined output of 313hp. Power is sent to all four wheels via an e-CVT gearbox. 

While there is no official announcement, Lexus is expected to introduce the facelift for the RX in India sometime next year. The current-generation Lexus RX is available in two variants, the 450h Luxury which is priced at Rs 1.29 crore and the 450h F Sport that costs Rs 1.32 crore (ex-showroom, pan-India). In terms of rivals, the RX competes with the Jaguar F-Pace, the BMW X6 and the Porsche Cayenne in India.