2020 Lexus RX 350 AWD: Specs, Pricing, and Key Highlights
First‑glance overview
The 2020 Lexus RX 350 AWD arrives as the luxury‑crossover that blends a smooth V6 with a reputation for quiet refinement. If you’re hunting for a midsize SUV that feels premium without shouting, this model lands squarely in that sweet spot. Under the hood, the 3.5‑liter V6 delivers 295 horsepower, while the all‑wheel‑drive system adds confidence on slick roads. Expect a cabin that leans toward the upscale, with leather‑trimmed seats and a suite of driver‑assist tech as standard.
Powertrain and performance
At the heart of the 2020 RX 350 AWD sits a 3.5‑liter V6 paired with an eight‑speed automatic transmission. The engine produces 295 hp at 6,600 rpm and 267 lb‑ft of torque, giving the SUV a brisk 0‑60 mph time of around 7.7 seconds. While it isn’t a sports car, the power is ample for merging onto highways and overtaking slower traffic. The AWD system is full‑time, using a center differential to distribute torque front‑to‑rear as conditions demand, which translates to solid grip in rain or light snow.
Fuel economy and emissions
Efficiency isn’t the RX 350’s headline, but Lexus manages a respectable EPA rating of 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for the AWD version. Those numbers put it ahead of many gas‑powered rivals in the segment, though they fall short of the hybrid RX 450h. CO₂ emissions hover around 210 g/km, aligning with typical midsize SUVs of its class.
Interior space and comfort
The cabin offers seating for five, with a generous 18.4 cu ft of cargo space behind the rear seats. Folding the backs expands the area to a roomy 56.3 cu ft—enough for weekend gear or a family’s grocery haul. Front seats are power‑adjustable and come with lumbar support, while rear occupants benefit from ample headroom and a reclining function. Soft-touch materials, wood‑grain trim, and ambient lighting create an environment that feels more sedan‑like than rugged.
Tech and safety features
Lexus equips the 2020 RX 350 AWD with an 8‑inch infotainment display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto—features that arrived as a standard after a mid‑year update. A premium sound system, navigation, and a rear‑view camera round out the tech suite. Safety is anchored by Lexus Safety System+, which includes pre‑collision braking, adaptive cruise control, lane‑departure alert, and automatic high‑beam headlamps. Most of these driver‑assist tools work seamlessly without intruding on the driving experience.
Price breakdown and trim options
- Base AWD – starts around $46,120 MSRP.
- Premium AWD – adds upgraded wheels, a sunroof, and a larger infotainment screen; MSRP roughly $50,060.
- Luxury AWD – brings a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, and a surround‑view camera; MSRP about $53,060.
All three trims share the same powertrain, so the price gap primarily reflects comfort and technology upgrades. Keep in mind that destination charges and optional packages can push the final invoice a few thousand dollars higher.
How the 2020 RX 350 stacks up against rivals
When compared to the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Mercedes‑B‑Class, the RX 350 AWD tends to feel more composed and quieter, though it sacrifices a bit of sharp handling. Its fuel economy sits between the Q5’s 22/28 mpg and the X3’s 21/27 mpg, making it a solid middle‑ground. The biggest advantage is Lexus’s reputation for reliability; owners often report fewer unexpected repairs than their German counterparts.
Ownership considerations – reliability and resale
Lexus consistently ranks near the top of J.D. Power’s reliability surveys, and the 2020 RX 350 is no exception. Owners typically enjoy a low cost of ownership, with routine maintenance intervals spaced at 10,000‑mile intervals. Resale values stay strong—according to industry data, a well‑kept RX 350 retains about 55 % of its original value after five years, edging out many competitors in the luxury SUV market.
FAQ
What is the difference between the AWD and FWD versions? The AWD model adds a permanent all‑wheel‑drive system that improves traction in adverse weather, while the FWD version saves a few hundred dollars and offers slightly better fuel economy.
Does the 2020 RX 350 offer a hybrid powertrain? No. The hybrid option for the RX line is the RX 450h, which pairs a 3.5‑liter V6 with an electric motor. The RX 350 is a conventional gasoline‑only model.
Are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard? They became standard after the 2020 mid‑year refresh; early‑year models may require a software update or a higher trim to access both.
