PLANO, Texas (August 26, 2020) – For the 2021 model year, the Lexus RX 350 and 450h add Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) as standard across all vehicle grades. Guests will also notice the addition of the standardization of power folding auto dim mirrors as they back up in the parking lot and navigate lane changes. With the addition of an optional wireless charger, the 2021 Lexus RX 350 and 450h continue to provide enhancements based on dealer and guest feedback.

Refined Style and Function

The luxury crossover received several changes in 2020 to enhance the driving dynamics across the lineup. Both the front and rear stabilizer bars are now hollow to reduce weight, yet their thicker diameters and reinforced bushings help reduce body roll and improve steering response. The shock absorbers were re-tuned to work with the stiffer roll bars, while upgraded dampers feature a friction control device that helps to control high frequency vibrations for a smoother ride.

The RX continues to provide improved responsiveness compared to models prior to 2020 with a stiffer suspension designed to reduce the noise and vibration from the road. On turns, the active corner braking will help prevent understeering by braking the inner wheel and providing more stability to the vehicle handling. Additional rigidity to the current generation is achieved through additional spot welds and adhesive.

Technology at the Speed of Life

The Lexus Multimedia System touchscreen was moved nearly 5.5 inches closer in the 2020 redesign to the driver and offers control of both audio and climate systems, in addition to providing a view of what’s behind the vehicle via the backup camera. Guests continue to have the option to choose between the standard 8-inch display and available 12.3-inch high-resolution, split-screen multimedia display.

With six USB ports, a designated cell phone storage and smartphone integration, the Lexus RX helps guests keep up with their fast-paced lives and stay connected on the go.  In addition, the Lexus App allows guests to do everything from starting their vehicle remotely with a smartphone, to contacting dealers for a service appointment, and much more. With an active subscription, the Lexus App dashboard provides a personalized view of convenient vehicle and connected service information, including the Vehicle Health Report, scheduled maintenance and vehicle health alerts.  Guests also can manage their subscriptions right from the palm of their hand.

Dynamic Voice Command (DVC) on the Lexus RX crossovers can be combined with the available 12.3-inch multimedia system. The voice-recognition system can recognize millions more phrases than conventional Lexus systems. DVC offers accuracy, seamless address entry and additional Points of Interest searches.

Always Connected Through Device of Choice

Through the touch of a button or synced voice command, the Lexus RX multimedia system will respond with suggested restaurants for dinner or vehicle service reminders. Guests can stay connected through the premium suite of connected technology functions, including the 3-year Lexus Enform Remote trial to remotely start the engine using select smart devices.

With Android Auto™, drivers can seamlessly access and use their phone on the RX’s touchscreen display. With larger touch targets, a simplified interface, and easy-to-use voice actions through Google Assistant^®, it’s designed to minimize distraction, so you can stay focused on the road. Once connected, guests will enjoy music from apps such as Spotify^® and Pandora^®, or send messages through commonly used apps like WhatsApp®. The interface also allows them to navigate with Google Maps™. With the Google Assistant^® in Android Auto™, drivers can use their voice to get things done quickly and easily for a smooth, and enjoyable driving experience. Tailored information is provided based on calendar, device usage, activity and habits.

For Apple CarPlay^® integration, guests can use their iPhone^® through the Lexus RX’s touchscreen display. When their iPhone is connected, commands for driving directions, phone calls, and sending and receiving messages via Siri^® are enabled. They can also gain access to favorite apps like Apple Music^®, Apple Maps, podcasts and audiobooks, as well as third party apps like Waze™ or Spotify^®.

Through in-car integrations with voice services like Amazon Alexa, guests can access their preferred service and play music, check the news, control smart home devices and more.  With the addition of a designated space to store smartphones near the front of the center console, guests can better utilize space to secure their personal items and still engage with the Lexus Multimedia System.

Safety Features

In addition to the 3-year, Lexus Enform Safety Connect and 10-year Enform Service Connect included with the vehicle, the suite of standard advanced safety features in the 2021 Lexus RX includes Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 as standard equipment. This features daytime bicyclist detection and low-light pedestrian detection along with Road Sign Assist (RSA), and Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) to further expand the scenarios in which the RXL is designed to provide additional safety to the driver and passengers.

Daytime bicyclist detection is part of an enhanced Pre-Collision System (PCS). Previously designed to detect a preceding vehicle or pedestrian, the Pre-Collision System has the potential to detect a preceding bicyclist as well. The PCS has also been enhanced to help detect a preceding pedestrian in certain low-light situations by increasing the camera’s sensitivity and dynamic range.

Road Sign Assist (RSA) displays select road sign information in the instrument panel while the Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) system is designed to detect lane markings to determine lane position and place the vehicle in the center of the lane when working in conjunction with the All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. If road markings are not detected, LTA is also capable, in certain conditions, of following the car ahead of it.

With Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), drivers can change lanes with confidence. The standard Blind Spot Monitor is designed to detect and warn you of vehicles approaching or positioned in the adjacent lanes. For added peace of mind, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert can help when backing out of a parking space. It notifies the driver of vehicles approaching from either side.

 F SPORT Options for Style and Handling

The RX 350 F SPORT is split into a base F SPORT package, with the visual features,  and a Handling package, updated naming from the previous Performance package. Both F SPORT packages include unique steering wheel and shift knob, aluminum pedals, bumpers, grille, badges, front seats, meter, aluminum ornamentation and 20” wheels. Front and rear performance dampers, LED ambient illumination, stainless steel rear door garnish, steering memory with seat memory call, and scuff plates are also included.

The optional Handling Package includes the base F SPORT package and adds Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), based on the Lexus LC500. Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) is added on RX 350 (standard on hybrid). Sound generator, Electric Power Steering (EPS) sport steering, moonroof and heated/ventilated seats are also included in the F SPORT Performance Package.

 Hybrids Bring the Best of Both Worlds

Lexus introduced the world’s first luxury hybrid vehicle — a gas/electric version of the RX luxury-utility vehicle — more than a decade ago. The RX 450h continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the brand’s hybrid leadership, with 308 combined system horsepower for powerful performance and impressive EPA-estimated 30 combined MPG for RX 450h.

The Lexus Hybrid Drive system pairs the D4-S fuel injection 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with two high-torque electric drive motor-generators for strong acceleration and passing performance. Instead of transfer gears and a driveshaft to the rear wheels, the all-weather drive system employs a second, independent electric motor to drive the rear wheels, when needed, to help maintain optimal traction.

Refined Color Palette and Options

In 2021, the RX family will continue to offer guests refined color and trim options to customize their luxury crossover to their discerning taste. Based on guest feedback, the NuLuxe^® option continues to be offered across all trim levels from base to Premium grade vehicles across the RX and RXL lineup. For Luxury grade, the interior color Noble Brown is replaced with Glazed Caramel for 2021. And, the Premium grade adds Glazed Carmel to the color palette.

Pricing for the RX 350 and 450h across grades and options are available in a separate pricing sheet for 2021 models. Vehicles will arrive at dealers in early fall 2020.