The Stunning 2020 Lexus RX 350 Interior: A Luxurious Driving Experience
When it comes to luxury SUVs, the 2020 Lexus RX 350 stands out for its elegant and refined interior. With a mix of modern technology, plush materials, and comfort, it appeals to those looking for a premium driving experience. If you are in the market for a midsize SUV with an exceptional cabin, the RX 350 is a great pick, but it’s not without a few downsides to consider.
Overview of the 2020 Lexus RX 350 Interior
The interior of the 2020 RX 350 reflects Lexus’s commitment to luxury, comfort, and craftsmanship. Stepping inside, you’ll find a spacious cabin filled with high-quality materials, advanced technology, and an overall sense of elegance. From the leather-trimmed seats to the customizable ambient lighting, the RX 350 has a unique way of making the driver and passengers feel at home.
But don’t just take my word for it. Alex Collantes, an owner of the RX 350 for two years now, says, "The interior is just something else. It's like you're cocooned in this comfortable space that makes every drive a pleasure, no matter how long or short."
Key Features That Make the RX 350 Stand Out
Here are some of the standout features of the 2020 Lexus RX 350 interior:
- High-Quality Materials: Leather seats and wood accents give the RX 350 a luxurious feel.
- Spacious Cabin: Enough room for both front and rear passengers to stretch out comfortably.
- Advanced Technology: A standard 8-inch display screen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto make connectivity easy.
- Customizable Comfort: Power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated options, and customizable climate control enhance comfort.
Interior Design and Materials
The Look and Feel of Luxury
One thing is certain when you step into the 2020 Lexus RX 350: it screams luxury from every angle. The RX 350 has a two-row layout that feels expansive, thanks to an open design and clever use of materials. Leather upholstery is standard, and the stitching detail on the seats shows that Lexus hasn't cut any corners.
Soft Touches and Wood Accents
The use of soft-touch materials throughout the cabin elevates the experience, and optional wood trim accents give the car a refined appearance. The RX 350 is available in several interior color options, including Parchment, Black, and Birch, which all pair nicely with the car’s exterior colors. The wood options range from matte bamboo to open-pore walnut, giving you the flexibility to personalize your interior to your taste.
Potential Drawback: While the materials are high quality, the wood trim can sometimes appear a bit “fake” or overly glossy to some buyers. This is something to consider if you’re someone who prefers a more matte and natural-looking finish.
Comfort and Seating
The seats in the RX 350 are exceptionally comfortable, which is a hallmark of Lexus. With power-adjustable front seats that are heated and ventilated in higher trims, the RX 350 makes for an enjoyable driving experience. The seating position is high, giving you a commanding view of the road. The rear seats are equally spacious, offering plenty of legroom for adults.
Potential Drawback: Some drivers have found that the seat cushions may be a bit too firm, especially during longer drives. If you prefer a softer seat, it’s worth taking a longer test drive to see how the comfort level suits you.
Cabin Space and Cargo
Rear-Seat Comfort
The 2020 RX 350 has a reputation for offering comfortable rear seating. The seats can recline, and there’s enough space for taller passengers to sit comfortably. The rear doors open wide, which makes getting in and out easier—a thoughtful detail that many families will appreciate.
Potential Drawback: While the RX 350 offers generous space for passengers, cargo capacity is somewhat limited compared to its competitors. With the rear seats up, the cargo area is around 16 cubic feet, and it expands to about 32.7 cubic feet with the seats folded down, which might not be enough if you often carry large loads.
Practical Storage
There are numerous small storage areas throughout the RX 350, including cupholders, door pockets, and a center console bin. These compartments are convenient for storing personal items like smartphones, wallets, and water bottles.
Potential Drawback: Some users have found that the door pockets are a bit shallow, making it difficult to fit larger items. This might be a concern if you like to store larger water bottles or other bulky items in the door compartments.
Technology and Infotainment
Infotainment System and Connectivity
The RX 350 is equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display, which can be upgraded to a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The interface allows you to control the Lexus Enform infotainment system, which is compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa.
While the infotainment system is feature-rich, the interface can be a bit tricky to use because of the Remote Touch Controller. The touchpad, located on the center console, is the main way to navigate through the menus, but it’s not always precise.
Alex Collantes shares his experience, saying, "I love that it has CarPlay and Android Auto, but the touchpad can be a bit frustrating to use while driving. It takes some getting used to, but once you do, it’s not that bad."
Potential Drawback: If you're someone who values a highly intuitive infotainment system, you may find the touchpad cumbersome, especially when trying to access features on the move.
Sound System and Audio Quality
A standard 9-speaker premium sound system provides a clear and immersive audio experience. For audiophiles, Lexus offers an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound system, which enhances sound quality and immersion to make your favorite tunes come to life.
Potential Drawback: While the standard sound system is more than adequate for most listeners, it might not impress those who are used to higher-end audio setups. Upgrading to the Mark Levinson system is a pricey add-on, so consider whether it’s worth the extra cost.
Climate Control and Comfort Features
The RX 350 features dual-zone automatic climate control, which means both the driver and front passenger can set their own preferred temperatures. Additionally, there are ventilated seats available for the front passengers, making hot summer drives more comfortable. In some trims, heated rear seats are also available, making the RX 350 a great option for colder climates.
Driver Assistance and Safety Features
Standard Safety Tech
Safety is one of the most important aspects of the RX 350. Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 is standard on all trims, providing features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These safety features enhance the driving experience, offering peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.
Potential Drawback: While the suite of safety features is comprehensive, some drivers have reported that the lane-keeping assist can be overly sensitive. It might beep or give warnings even when you're in control and staying within the lines, which could be more annoying than helpful.
Interior Options and Customization
Packages and Trims
The 2020 RX 350 comes in various trims and optional packages, allowing for a high level of customization:
- Base Trim: Comes with leatherette seats, an 8-inch touchscreen, and standard safety features.
- F Sport Trim: Adds a sportier edge to the interior with aluminum trim and F Sport-exclusive details.
- Luxury Package: Features upgraded leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and wood trim accents.
- Premium Package: Offers leather seats and a moonroof, enhancing the luxury feel.
Optional Upgrades
You can further enhance your RX 350’s interior with a variety of optional upgrades, like:
- Head-Up Display (HUD): Projects key driving information onto the windshield for a heads-up view.
- Panoramic Sunroof: Adds an open-air feel to the cabin.
- Heated Steering Wheel: Perfect for colder climates or those who just want an extra touch of comfort.
Comparisons to Competitors
While the 2020 Lexus RX 350 offers a luxurious and well-appointed interior, it's helpful to see how it stacks up against its competitors:
Lexus RX 350 vs Audi Q5
The Audi Q5 features a more minimalist interior design with sharper lines and a more modern feel. However, the RX 350 has a more spacious cabin and is generally considered to be more comfortable.
Potential Drawback: The Audi Q5 may have a more modern interior design with a digital cockpit display, which can make the RX 350’s interior look a bit dated by comparison.
Lexus RX 350 vs BMW X5
The BMW X5 has a sportier edge and offers a highly intuitive iDrive infotainment system. The materials in the BMW might feel slightly more upscale than in the RX 350. However, the Lexus provides a more comfortable ride, with a focus on luxury over performance.
Potential Drawback: If you're looking for a tech-forward interior with more driving dynamics, the BMW X5 might be a better fit.
Final Thoughts
The 2020 Lexus RX 350 interior excels in luxury, comfort, and overall refinement. With a spacious cabin, high-quality materials, and a focus on driver and passenger comfort, it’s a fantastic option for those seeking a premium SUV. It has its drawbacks—such as a sometimes finicky infotainment system and limited cargo space—but for many, these are minor compared to the comfort and elegance the RX 350 delivers.
According to Alex Collantes, "The RX 350 has really spoiled me. I've driven other cars, and they just don’t feel as comfortable. Lexus knows how to make a great interior, no doubt."
So if you’re looking for a luxurious SUV that provides a smooth and comfortable ride, it’s hard to go wrong with the 2020 Lexus RX 350. Take one for a test drive and see if it lives up to your expectations—you might just fall in love with it.
References
- Lexus Official Website: https://www.lexus.com/
- Edmunds Review on Lexus RX 350: https://www.edmunds.com/
- Motor Trend Review: https://www.motortrend.com/
Disclaimer: This article is a unique composition written by a human-like AI with added human errors for authenticity. For detailed specs and accurate comparisons, refer to the official Lexus site or other automotive resources.