Why the 2020 Lexus RX 350 F Sport Is the Perfect Luxury SUV Choice
The 2020 Lexus RX 350 F Sport is a perfect blend of luxury and performance offering a smooth yet powerful driving experience. It’s not just a luxury SUV; it’s a statement of comfort with a sporty edge. The RX lineup from Lexus is a longstanding favorite in the midsize SUV category and the F Sport trim specifically caters to those looking for a bit more thrill. In this article we dive deep into what makes the 2020 Lexus RX 350 F Sport stand out from its competitors and why it could be the perfect choice for your next ride.
Overview of the Lexus RX 350 F Sport 2020
The 2020 Lexus RX 350 F Sport brings together sophistication and excitement. As part of the Lexus RX lineup the F Sport variant is designed for those who want a touch more performance without compromising the luxury Lexus is known for. Equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine pumping out 295 horsepower the RX 350 F Sport is powerful enough to satisfy drivers who want both style and substance.
While the base RX 350 caters to the comfort-oriented driver the F Sport trim adds an edge with its sharper handling sportier suspension and unique design elements both inside and out.
Key Features at a Glance
- 3.5-Liter V6 Engine Producing 295 HP
- F Sport Suspension and Handling
- All-Wheel Drive Option
- Distinctive F Sport Styling Inside and Out
- Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 Suite
- Optional Premium Audio System by Mark Levinson
Exterior Design & Styling
One of the first things you'll notice about the RX 350 F Sport is its bold styling. The F Sport grille gives the front end a more aggressive look compared to the standard RX 350. The sharp lines around the body and the 20-inch alloy wheels enhance its sporty character. Additionally the black side mirrors and aluminum accents on the trim add to the F Sport’s distinctiveness.
Sleek and Aggressive Front-End Design
The spindle grille which is a signature feature of Lexus makes the front look intimidating yet sophisticated. LED headlights with daytime running lights ensure that the RX 350 F Sport stands out both during the day and at night. The lower front spoiler and air vents improve aerodynamics and add to the sporty aesthetic.
Rear Profile: Stylish Yet Functional
The rear of the RX 350 F Sport is just as appealing as the front. The taillights wrap around the rear corners emphasizing the vehicle's width and stability. Dual exhaust outlets not only look sleek but also offer a sporty tone to the engine note.
Pros:
- Eye-catching design that stands out in its class
- Sporty yet elegant touches
- Excellent build quality ensures longevity
Potential Drawbacks:
- Some may find the spindle grille too aggressive or polarizing
- The F Sport's lowered stance might reduce ground clearance slightly impacting off-road capability
Interior Comfort & Technology
Step inside the 2020 RX 350 F Sport and you’ll be greeted with a cabin that screams luxury. Premium materials like leather upholstery metal accents and high-quality plastics make the inside feel upscale. Ambient lighting and F Sport badging add an extra layer of exclusivity to the model.
Seating and Comfort
The F Sport seats are not only comfortable but they also provide extra bolstering to keep you snug during spirited drives. The seats are both heated and ventilated offering all-weather comfort. The rear seats provide ample legroom and headroom making it a comfortable ride for all passengers.
Alex Collantes an automotive enthusiast who has driven the RX 350 F Sport extensively states “The seats are the best part for me. They strike a balance between sportiness and comfort. You can go on a road trip without feeling worn out.”
Pros:
- Supportive and comfortable seats
- Excellent fit and finish throughout the cabin
- Quiet ride with minimal road noise intrusion
Potential Drawbacks:
- The touchpad interface for the infotainment system can be cumbersome to use while driving
- Cargo space might feel limited compared to other midsize SUVs
Technology & Infotainment
The 2020 RX 350 F Sport comes with an 8-inch display as standard or an optional 12.3-inch touchscreen for an upgraded experience. The infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay Android Auto and Amazon Alexa which are great for connectivity on the go.
Premium Audio System by Mark Levinson
An optional feature but one that elevates the entire cabin experience is the Mark Levinson Premium Audio System. The 15-speaker system delivers exceptional clarity and rich bass making long drives far more enjoyable.
Pros:
- High-quality infotainment options
- Premium audio system enhances the driving experience
Potential Drawbacks:
- The infotainment interface could benefit from a more intuitive design
- Lack of physical buttons for some controls which could be inconvenient for some users
Performance & Driving Dynamics
The RX 350 F Sport is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission which provides smooth and responsive gear shifts. The F Sport's Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) allows for a sportier ride giving drivers the ability to tailor their driving experience.
Acceleration & Handling
The RX 350 F Sport is designed to offer a bit more pep than its standard counterpart. It can go from 0-60 mph in around 7.7 seconds which is respectable for its class. However the F Sport's handling is where it truly shines. The stiffer suspension and sharper steering make the SUV feel more agile through corners and more connected to the road.
Pros:
- Smooth and responsive power delivery
- Enhanced handling for a sportier drive
- AVS system allows customization of the ride experience
Potential Drawbacks:
- Some drivers may find the ride too firm due to the sport-tuned suspension
- Acceleration isn't as quick as some competitors like the BMW X5
Safety Features & Driver Assistance
The 2020 RX 350 F Sport comes standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 which includes a suite of driver assistance features such as:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Intelligent High Beams
These features enhance overall driving safety and make daily commuting or long road trips less stressful.
Pros:
- Extensive safety features come standard
- Driver-assist technologies work seamlessly in the background
Potential Drawbacks:
- Some may find the Lane Keep Assist system to be a bit intrusive
- Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert are not standard in all trim levels
Fuel Economy & Efficiency
The 2020 Lexus RX 350 F Sport achieves an EPA rating of 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway for the FWD model and 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway for the AWD model. This is fairly competitive for a luxury midsize SUV though not necessarily class-leading.
Pros:
- Reasonable fuel efficiency for a V6 engine
- Option for FWD or AWD to suit different driving needs
Potential Drawbacks:
- Some competitors offer better fuel economy particularly with hybrid or smaller turbocharged engines
- AWD option slightly reduces fuel efficiency compared to FWD model
Pricing & Trims
The 2020 RX 350 F Sport is priced competitively starting around $49,000. For a luxury midsize SUV with premium features and sporty performance this represents good value for those seeking a mix of luxury and excitement.
Optional Packages & Add-Ons
Lexus offers several packages and add-ons to tailor the RX 350 F Sport to your preferences including:
- Navigation Package: Adds the 12.3-inch touchscreen and premium audio
- Cold Weather Package: Adds heated steering wheel and windshield wiper de-icer
- Premium Package: Offers leather seating moonroof and upgraded interior trims
Pros:
- Good starting price for a luxury midsize SUV
- Optional packages allow customization based on budget and preferences
Potential Drawbacks:
- Adding multiple packages can quickly increase the price
- Some desirable features are only available through add-ons
Competitors: How Does It Compare?
The 2020 Lexus RX 350 F Sport faces competition from several luxury midsize SUVs. Let’s see how it stacks up against some of its rivals:
1. Acura MDX
Pros: Lower starting price more cargo space Cons: Less refined cabin compared to Lexus
2. BMW X5
Pros: Better performance and acceleration Cons: Higher starting price and more expensive options
3. Audi Q7
Pros: Sleek design high-tech interior Cons: Limited third-row space pricier when fully equipped
Alex Collantes shared his thoughts on the RX 350 F Sport versus its rivals saying “While the BMW X5 might have the edge in performance and the Audi Q7 feels a bit more tech-forward the RX 350 F Sport brings a great balance of luxury reliability and a touch of sportiness. Plus the Lexus name carries a reputation for longevity.”
Final Verdict: Is the Lexus RX 350 F Sport 2020 Worth It?
The 2020 Lexus RX 350 F Sport strikes a solid balance between luxury comfort and a dash of sportiness. It offers a smooth ride a well-crafted interior and enough power to keep most drivers entertained. While it may not be the fastest or most tech-savvy SUV in its class its reputation for reliability and build quality make it a strong contender.
For those looking for a luxury midsize SUV with a sporty edge the RX 350 F Sport is definitely worth considering. Its bold design comfortable cabin and respectable performance make it an attractive package.
Key Takeaways
- The F Sport trim adds a sporty edge to the already popular RX lineup
- Strong safety features and driver-assistance tech come standard
- Handling and driving dynamics are enhanced with the F Sport suspension
Whether you’re an enthusiast looking for a sporty luxury SUV or simply in need of a comfortable and stylish daily driver the 2020 Lexus RX 350 F Sport brings the best of both worlds in one sleek package.
References
- Lexus.com - Official Specs and Details of the 2020 Lexus RX 350 F Sport
- Car and Driver - Road Test Reviews and Comparison with Rivals
- Edmunds - Pricing Options and User Reviews