Lexus RX V (AL20) (2015 – 2022)

Reliability score : 9.3/10

The 4th generation Lexus RX (code AL20 — often confused with the 5th generation AL30 released at the end of 2022) marked a major stylistic departure for the brand with its angular design, gaping trapezoidal grille, and floating roof. Positioned in the premium SUV segment (E-SUV), it competes with the BMW X5 and Mercedes GLE by focusing on supreme comfort, top-flight soundproofing, and legendary reliability. Although the hybrid powertrain (RX 450h) is dominant in Europe, the 100% petrol versions (RX 200t/300 and RX 350) have enjoyed great success in North America, Russia, and Asian markets. The 2019 facelift (2020 model year) corrected its biggest flaw by replacing the touchpad multimedia interface with a touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, while also stiffening the chas

✅ Strengths

Exceptional overall reliability (often ranked 1st in its class)
Imperial ride comfort and limousine-like soundproofing
Flawless finish and assembly quality (materials that age very well)
Highly efficient hybrid system (450h) for a vehicle weighing over 2 tons
Very high resale value on the used market

⚠️ Weaknesses

Pre-2020 infotainment system (Remote Touch) is archaic, slow, and distracting
Clumsy road handling, focused on comfort to the detriment of dynamism
Disappointing trunk volume for its size (especially on the 450h due to the batteries)
"Rubber-band" effect (CVT) on the 450h during hard acceleration
Imposing size (4.89 m) making urban parking tricky

🎯 Verdict

The Lexus RX (AL20) is one of the most reliable luxury SUVs ever built. If you are looking for a vehicle to swallow up the miles in absolute comfort without ever worrying about costly breakdowns, it is the ideal choice. The petrol engines (RX 300 and RX 350) are models of robustness, although the 3.5L V6 is penalized by its fuel consumption. In Europe, the RX 450h remains the best buy thanks to its efficiency. It is imperative to favor a facelifted model (from late 2019 / 2020 model year) to benefit from the touchscreen and an improved chassis. Just make sure that the fuel pump-related recalls have been carried out.

Common issues

Dysfonctionnements du système d'infodivertissement (Remote Touch) Low

🔧 Dès 0 km (logiciel) ou 50 000 – 150 000 km (matériel)

💶 0 € (mise à jour logicielle) à 500 – 1 500 € (remplacement module)

Tester le système avant achat, vérifier les mises à jour logicielles disponibles.

Usure prématurée de la batterie 12V Low

🔧 30 000 – 80 000 km (2-4 ans)

💶 150 – 300 €

Vérifier l'âge de la batterie, prévoir un remplacement préventif si nécessaire.

Bruits ou dysfonctionnements du hayon électrique Low

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 300 – 800 € (remplacement vérins ou moteur)

Tester le fonctionnement du hayon, écouter les bruits anormaux à l'ouverture/fermeture.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing chain	£1 200 – 2 500 (very rare, generally lifetime)
Complete brakes	£300 – 600
Estimated annual budget	£650 – 1 200

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.