Unveiling the Lexus RX 350 F Sport 2020: A Luxurious SUV That Excels
The 2020 Lexus RX 350 F Sport is a luxurious SUV that has been designed to deliver both comfort and performance. This midsize luxury SUV is known for its reliability and smooth driving experience making it a popular choice among those who want a refined vehicle without sacrificing driving dynamics. With a refreshed design in 2020 the RX 350 F Sport brings sharper styling enhanced technology and a sporty appeal that sets it apart from its competitors. Let’s take an in-depth look at what makes the 2020 Lexus RX 350 F Sport stand out while also exploring its pros cons and what to expect from this vehicle.
A Quick Overview of the 2020 Lexus RX 350 F Sport
The Lexus RX 350 F Sport is part of the RX lineup which is one of Lexus’s best-selling models worldwide. In 2020 it received a mild refresh which brought new styling updates technological advancements and handling improvements. The RX 350 F Sport aims to appeal to those who love the practicality and comfort of an SUV but also crave an enhanced driving experience with sportier handling and a more aggressive appearance.
Key Highlights
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 engine (295 horsepower)
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission
- Drivetrain Options: Front-wheel drive (FWD) or All-wheel drive (AWD)
- Fuel Economy: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (FWD) 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway (AWD)
- Seating: 5-passenger capacity (7-passenger with optional third row in RX 350L model)
- Technology: Standard Apple CarPlay Android Auto Amazon Alexa compatibility
The Design: Bold Yet Elegant
The 2020 RX 350 F Sport has received an aesthetic update with the redesigned spindle grille sharper headlights and more aerodynamic lines. This makes the car appear more aggressive yet sophisticated. The F Sport trim adds a level of sportiness with its unique front grille blacked-out accents and 20-inch alloy wheels.
Exterior Details
The front fascia of the RX 350 F Sport grabs your attention instantly. The refreshed spindle grille is not only more attractive but it's also functional. It helps to improve airflow to the engine for better cooling. The headlights have been redesigned with triple-beam LED lights that not only look stylish but also enhance visibility.
- Aggressive Front Grille: Enhances the sporty character
- Sleek Headlights: LED lights add a modern touch
- 20-Inch Alloy Wheels: Standard on F Sport trim for a bold stance
Moving to the side profile the RX 350 F Sport features well-defined lines that flow towards the rear giving it a streamlined look. The roofline slopes downward contributing to its sporty appeal.
Interior Details
Stepping inside the cabin of the RX 350 F Sport you’re welcomed by an interior that prioritizes luxury and comfort. Premium materials like leather soft-touch plastics and brushed aluminum are used throughout the interior making it feel upscale and high-quality.
The seats are comfortable and supportive with the F Sport seats featuring enhanced bolstering for better support during spirited driving. The perforated leather seats also add to the luxurious feel while providing excellent comfort.
Cabin Features:
- Sport Seats with Enhanced Bolstering: Designed for comfort and support during sporty driving
- Aluminum Trim and Paddle Shifters: Adds to the sporty feel of the cabin
- Heated and Ventilated Front Seats: Standard on F Sport trim for added comfort
However one area where the RX 350 F Sport could improve is in its rear cargo space. While the passenger space is generous the cargo area is somewhat limited compared to some competitors. The sloping roofline also makes it slightly less convenient when trying to load larger items.
Performance: Sporty but not Exhilarating
Under the hood of the Lexus RX 350 F Sport is a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission which is smooth and responsive. It offers a nice blend of power and efficiency making it suitable for both daily commuting and long highway drives.
While the F Sport package is designed to enhance the sporty appeal it’s important to note that the RX 350 F Sport is not a performance SUV like the BMW X5 M or Audi SQ5. The handling is improved thanks to Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and sport-tuned steering but it’s not going to deliver the kind of aggressive performance that some might expect from an "F Sport" badge.
Pros of Performance
- Smooth and Refined V6 Engine: Delivers a good amount of power for daily driving
- Enhanced Handling with AVS: Adaptive suspension adjusts to road conditions and driving style
- Smooth Transmission Shifts: 8-speed automatic provides smooth and timely shifts
Cons of Performance
- Lacks Exhilaration: Despite being an "F Sport" it doesn't provide the level of sporty excitement that performance enthusiasts might want
- Body Roll in Tight Corners: Due to its size and focus on comfort the RX 350 F Sport still has some body roll in aggressive cornering
Technology and Infotainment: User-Friendly but Can Be Improved
The 2020 RX 350 F Sport comes equipped with a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system which can be upgraded to a 12.3-inch display on higher trims. The system includes Apple CarPlay Android Auto and Amazon Alexa compatibility which are welcome additions for seamless smartphone integration.
Technology Highlights
- Remote Touch Interface (RTI): The infotainment system is controlled by a touchpad which has a bit of a learning curve and may not be as intuitive as a traditional touchscreen
- Voice Control & Smartphone Integration: Easy access to navigation music and other smartphone functions
- Navigation System & Premium Audio Upgrade: Optional features for enhanced infotainment
Pros
- Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: Standard features for better connectivity
- Amazon Alexa Integration: For voice-activated control over smart home devices
- Optional Head-Up Display: For added convenience and safety
Cons
- Touchpad Interface Is Not Intuitive: The RTI touchpad can be distracting to use while driving
- Infotainment System Could Be Faster: Some users report slight lag when navigating through the menu
- No Full Touchscreen Control: Even with the larger screen much of the functionality is still controlled via the touchpad
Alex Collantes a car enthusiast who drove the 2020 RX 350 F Sport for a week says "The tech features in the RX 350 F Sport are convenient but the touchpad can be a bit annoying when you're on the move. I'd prefer a more traditional touchscreen setup."
Safety and Driver Assistance: Top-Notch as Expected
When it comes to safety Lexus doesn't compromise. The 2020 RX 350 F Sport is equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 which includes a host of advanced driver assistance features like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Intelligent High Beams.
Standard Safety Features
- Pre-Collision System: Helps prevent accidents with automatic braking
- Lane Departure Alert: Alerts if you unintentionally drift out of your lane
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead
These features provide added peace of mind for both the driver and passengers and have contributed to the RX 350 F Sport’s reputation for being a reliable and safe vehicle.
Pricing and Value: A Competitive Choice
The 2020 Lexus RX 350 F Sport is priced competitively within its segment starting around $48,000 for the base F Sport model. When compared to rivals like the Acura MDX BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE the RX 350 F Sport offers an excellent blend of luxury reliability and sporty styling at a reasonable price point.
Pros of Value
- Reasonable Pricing for Luxury SUV: Offers good value for the features and quality you receive
- High Reliability & Resale Value: Lexus is known for its strong reliability which also translates to good resale value
Cons of Value
- Lacks Some Standard Features Found in Rivals: Certain features are optional that come standard on other vehicles in this price range
- Optional Packages Add Up Quickly: Adding premium options can significantly increase the cost
Competitor Comparison: How Does It Stack Up?
When comparing the 2020 Lexus RX 350 F Sport to its competitors it's clear that the RX 350 focuses on comfort luxury and reliability rather than outright performance or cutting-edge technology. Here’s a quick look at how it stacks up against some of its main rivals:
Acura MDX
- Offers three-row seating as standard (optional on RX 350)
- Better value in terms of standard features but less luxurious interior
BMW X5
- Provides a more engaging driving experience with sharper handling
- Higher price point and can get expensive quickly with options
Mercedes-Benz GLE
- Superior technology features with a more advanced infotainment system
- Less reliable and more expensive to maintain over the long term
Conclusion: The Perfect Blend of Luxury & Practicality
The 2020 Lexus RX 350 F Sport is a compelling choice for those seeking a luxury SUV with a refined driving experience sporty styling and a comfortable interior. It may not deliver the high-performance thrills of some of its sportier rivals but it offers a balanced blend of practicality comfort and reliability.
If you’re looking for a luxury midsize SUV with a sporty edge that’s backed by Lexus’s reputation for quality then the RX 350 F Sport is definitely worth considering.
References:
- "2020 Lexus RX Review & Ratings" – Edmunds
- "2020 Lexus RX 350 F Sport: A Sporty Twist on a Luxury Classic" – MotorTrend
- Collantes Alex. Personal opinion during a week-long test drive of the 2020 RX 350 F Sport
For more insights into the luxury SUV market or if you have any questions about the 2020 Lexus RX 350 F Sport feel free to reach out. Happy driving!