Lexus RX: Which Should You Buy, 2020 or 2021?

Most significant changes: Blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert and power-folding, auto-dimming side mirrors now standard; wireless charging now available; new Glazed Caramel interior color available; F Sport Performance Package renamed F Sport Handling Package

Price change: $920 for two-row; $600 for three-row L versions

On sale: Early fall

Which should you buy, 2020 or 2021? The price increase for L models is modest enough that it seems worth it for the additional content compared to a 2020. Two-row models may require more careful consideration of price and features. 

After significant updates for the 2020 model year, Lexus announced mild updates to its popular RX line of SUVs for 2021, including additional standard safety technology and convenience features.

Related: 2020 Lexus RX Review: Just What the Doctor Ordered

Pricing

Pricing for the entry-level models is below. Two-row models increase by $920 while the three-row L versions are $600 more expensive.

• 2021 RX 350 (FWD): $46,095 (up $920 over 2020)
• 2021 RX 450h (AWD): $48,745 (up $920)
• 2021 RX 350L (FWD): $48,925 (up $600)
• 2021 RX 450hL (AWD): $52,135 (up $600) 

Options

Buyers can add an F Sport appearance package to the two-row 350 and 450h for an additional $3,480, giving the SUV a more aggressive look and adding things like F Sport-specific front seats. 

On top of that, there’s an F Sport Handling (nee Performance) Package that adds an adaptive suspension, sport steering, sound enhancement and, in the 350, Lexus’ Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system (already standard on the hybrid 450h). That will cost an additional $2,400 on the 350 and $2,320 on the 450h, on top of the $3,480 for the appearance package. (Technically, the Handling package is only $1,050 or $970, respectively, but it seems to require the addition of a power moonroof and aluminum roof rails for an extra $1,350.) 

The Black Line appearance package is available on the RX 350 and 450h F Sport. Building on the F Sport, for an additional $685 it adds trendy darkened exterior accents.

Three-row models don’t offer F Sport anything, but can be upgraded with a $6,000 Luxury Package that adds higher-quality interior materials, different wheels and additional comfort and convenience features.

Release Date

Lexus says 2021 models should start arriving at dealerships early this fall, so expect to see them available soon.

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