Lexus PH unveils new 2020 RX luxury crossover

Lexus Philippines unveils its new 2020 RX crossover today. The vehicle has a long history with the company, being one of its core models. Lexus even states that the RX helped establish the luxury crossover segment when it was first introduced to the global market back in 1998.

The new RX comes with three variants: the RX 350 F Sport, RX 350L and the RX 450h. Powering the 350 series of  RX crossovers are a pair of 3.5-liter V6 engines. These engines vary in power ranging from 296 hp and 370 Nm of torque to 259 hp and 335 Nm of torque. 

The RX 450h, on the other hand, features two motors. The front permanent magnet motor produces 165 hp and 335 Nm of torque while the rear permanent magnet motor produces 67 hp and 139 Nm of torque. Combined these two electric motors produce 308 hp. The battery of the hybrid crossover comes with 30 modules and comes in the form of a sealed nickel-metal hydride battery with a capacity of 6.5 Ah.

The new Lexus RX’s interior features a power-folding third row and more luggage space options. It focuses on creating space within the vehicle. Lexus has given the RX the ability to have its second-row move forward in order to create more room for the third row. When luggage space is needed, the third row can be easily folded with a press of a button. The rear seats fold completely flat making it easier to maximize space. The Japanese car manufacturer has also given the rear of the vehicle a tonneau cover which covers the folded rear seats in order to give your luggage privacy. 

The RX also gets better ride handling upgrades as well. The vehicle features improved body rigidity and better suspension tuning. To achieve a more rigid body, Lexus has used laser screw welding and spot welding on the vehicle. Along with the welds, the vehicle also features the increased use of high-strength adhesives strategically placed in sections of the vehicle. For suspension, the crossover now has stiffer stabilizer bars that are now hollow and are 1mm wider. The new stabilizer bars now have enhanced hub rigidity thanks to the design improvements. Together, these improvements let the vehicle have a more immediate response to steering inputs thus increasing the handling and feel of the luxury crossover.

On top of those tweaks to the suspension and handling of the vehicle, another added feature is the Active Cornering Assist. The system suppresses understeer when stepping on the throttle mid-corner. To further aid in improving handling there have been adjustments made to the vehicles Electronic Power Steering system which grants it a better more linear feel. These adjustments allow the RX to better drive the best driving line set up by the driver regardless of road conditions.

For technology, the 2020 RX features a new touch-display screen which goes together with Lexus’ own remote touch interface. This new infotainment unit now features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, which is a plus for those who want smartphone integration in their vehicles. Prices of the Lexus RX have not yet been announced but we will update you once they are released.