- Freshened looks
- Aero and suspension updates
- Current RC priced from $41,600-$65,645
Lexus has announced that the updated 2019 Lexus RC will make its global debut at the 2018 Paris Auto Show this October. The luxury sports coupe has received updates to its exterior and interior styling, along with enhancements to its aerodynamics, suspension and powertrain.
The RC originally debuted at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show, and first went on sale in the U.S. in 2014 as a 2015 model. Sales peaked at over 14,000 in 2015, falling to just over 7,000 units in 2017. Just over 2,000 RC models have been sold in the U.S. so far this year (through July 2018).
Exterior changes for the 2019 model year will be primarily cosmetic, including a new front bumper corner and a grille mesh pattern that gradually transforms from top to bottom. Triple LED headlamps will be available, along with L-shaped LED clearance lamps. The rear bumpers receive air ducts at the corners, and revised rear combination lamps with more pronounced L-shaped lenses have been fitted to the coupe. RC will be available wearing one of 10 different exterior paint colors, including a new color, Blue Vortex Metallic.
The RC interior receives a new Dark Gray Streamline treatment on its heater control panel and audio panel, and the knee pads have been enlarged “to create a heightened sense of space,” according to Lexus.
Also: Get your first look at the new and redesigned cars of 2019
Sharper handling promised
In order to follow in the tracks of the brand’s LC flagship, Lexus engineers have adopted the driving concept of “sharper and more graceful.” Aerodynamics have been enhanced by adding a new fin shape on the side window molding and a duct on the rear bumper to improve airflow. The suspension has been fine-tuned, with new 19-inch wheels and tires and stiffer suspension bushings and new shock absorbers, and the powertrain has also been refined.
An RC F Sport model will also be produced for 2019, bearing the signature grille mesh pattern from the F Sport lineup. Other custom exterior and interior items will be part of the F Sport model, including 19-inch alloy wheels in a design inspired by the LC and LS designs.
More details of the 2019 Lexus RC and 2019 Lexus RC F will be revealed in October in coordination with the vehicles’ world debut in Paris.
