Lexus Updates its SUVs with Interior and Technology Tweaks

Lexus has updated its RX SUV for 2020 with subtle styling revisions and chassis tweaks. 

Redesigned front and rear bumpers are the most obvious change to the exterior styling, while a rearranged tailpipe layout aims to lend the car a sportier image.

At the front, slimmer headlights flank a reconfigured version of the model’s distinctive large grille, in an attempt to emphasise the link between the RX and Lexus's new UX crossover and ES executive saloon.

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. 

Lexus says Bladescan “lights up areas that may be difficult to see using a conventional high-beam system, such the shoulder of the road.” Pedestrians are now said to be recognised at 56 metres, as opposed to 32 metres with the RX's old headlights.

Lexus has prioritised dynamic handling with the suspension set-up 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 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. 

Inside, the seven-seat RX L model now offers moveable third-row seats to allow for greater leg room as required, while Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and voice control have been introduced across the RX range.

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.

1: Lexus LX

Available with either a 5.7-litre V8 petrol or 4.5-litre V8 diesel engine, the range-topping 2020 LX now comes standard with wireless headsets, a front seat belt (driver and passenger) alarm buzzer plus the option of a brand new “Ochre” interior trim package that sports a natural clay earth pigment with a mixture of clay and sand tones.

Customers can also choose a new exterior paint colour — “Terrane Khaki” — that first appeared on the UX.

2:  Lexus RX

All new 2020 RX models now benefit from updated seat upholstery. “Natural Leather” is standard on the EX while the L (seven-seater), F Sport and SE grades up the ante with “Natural High Leather.”

A seat belt alarm buzzer has also been added to the second row of seats in all RX model grades.

Finally, the entry-level EX ditches its old static headlamps in favour of new active “Dynamic Auto Headlamps” for safer driving at night.

3: Lexus NX

This is the second time in 2020 that the NX has been treated to an update. So what can you expect this time around? Well, the entry-level EX has been upgraded with keyless entry for the back door, while the F Sport and Hybrid SE grades now boast a 14-speaker Mark Levinson sound system. For an even more premium sound, a new-generation Mark Levinson amplifier is also available.

Meanwhile, “Park Distance Control” for the EX and SE grades now has standard front and rear “Intelligent Clearance Sonar”.

There have also been some changes made to the hybrid model line-up. For the first time customers will now be able to choose between SE and EX model grades. The SE wheel design has also been changed from “Base Alloy” to “High Alloy” wheels.

Lexus has also expanded the exterior paint palette on all model grades to include “Terrane Khaki,” “Celestial Blue” and “Black.” F Sport models can also be had in new “White Nova.”

November 10, 2020