After undergoing a thorough refresh for the 2020 model year, the Lexus RX L crossover SUV enters the 2021 model year with minimal changes. Still, it’s not completely devoid of differences.
The most noteworthy update Lexus makes to the RX L—the “L” refers to its extra length compared to the non-L RX models—is to its standard features list. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and power-folding auto-dimming exterior mirrors are now included across the board. The former item adds $1,865 to the bills of base 2020 RX 350L and RX 450hL gasoline-electric hybrid models as part of a package that also includes a surround-view monitor and parking sensors. Meanwhile, the latter item was grouped into the 2020 RX L’s $1,580 Premium package.
Additionally, the mid-size crossover welcomes a wireless phone charger to its options menu. The feature ought to nicely complement the crossover’s other infotainment tech, which includes a standard 8.0-inch—and available 12.3-inch—touchscreen that’s both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible.
Those changes aside, the 2021 Lexus RX L remains the typically boring crossover it’s seemingly always been. That’s no bad thing, though. While the 295-hp RX 350L and 308-hp RX 450hL hybrid both lack any sort of inherent driving engagement, the Lexus crossover SUV remains a comfortable and capable means of battling typical day-to-day driving.
Unlike the standard RX, the RX L benefits from a more upright rear end and 4.4 inches of additional length in order to accommodate a small third row of seats. The setup allows the RX L to seat up to seven—two more than the smaller RX. Whether the cramped rear row is worth the L’s extra cost over the run-of-the-mill RX is a matter of personal needs.
Even though Lexus has yet to announce pricing for the 2021 RX L, the Japanese luxury brand will likely keep the cost of entry close to that of today’s model, which starts at $48,325 for the RX 350 and $51,535 for the gasoline-electric RX 450hL.
