First Drive of the New 2020 Lexus RXL 450 Hybrid and RX 350 F SPORT

Sherri and I spent our lunch time yesterday at the Toyota Headquarters in Plano for a Lunch & Learn event for the 2020 Lexus RXL 450 Hybrid and RX 350 F SPORT. Greg Gleich from Lexus College provided a walkaround opportunity for the two vehicles during which he discussed some of the new changes and upgrades that will be available on both the RXL and RX F SPORT later this fall.

For 2020, all RX models will come standard with the latest smartphone vehicle integrations, which now will include Android Auto integration. Also, buyers will be able to choose between the standard 8-inch multimedia display or a 12.3-inch high-resolution touchscreen. The vehicles will also have six USB charging ports for recharging multiple electronic devices. To improve handling, cut down on cabin noise, and provide greater body rigidity, the engineers at Lexus added additional laser screw wields for a total of 160 as well as structural adhesive. Engineers also designed both front and rear stabilizer bars to be hollow in order to give the luxury crossover an even more luxurious ride; but to keep from comprising strength for comfort, the engineers made the bars diameters thicker and reinforced the bushings which will dramatically help reduce body roll and improve steering response.

Lexus released the first luxury hybrid vehicle in the world over a decade ago, and it is still setting the pace with innovation. The new 2020 RXL hybrid will have a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine that produces 295 horsepower mated with two high-torque electric drive motor-generators for strong acceleration and passing performance achieving a combined 308 horsepower and a healthy EPA-estimated 29 combined mpg. The 2020 F SPORT will offer two distinct packages. My take away on this model was the Performance Package will have the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), which is the same suspension on the wildly popular luxury sport Lexus LC500. It will have a starting MSRP of $50,350.

After the walk around, we had a quick lunch and then were off to drive both vehicles on what Toyota's Check Road. The engineers use this area alongside the Plano headquarters to simulate different everyday driving conditions. We were able to get behind the wheel of both vehicles and do a couple of zero to 60's on the closed course. The RXL three-row hybrid had none of the usual hybrid windup. The acceleration was immediate, smooth, and effortless. You would not have known you were driving a hybrid. I am looking forward to more drives in both vehicles in the future as both the 2020 RXL and RX F-Sport are expected to be available on dealer lots later this fall.

For more information, visit:
Lexus | RX