Used 2020 Lexus RC

Like its older sibling, the stunning LC, the 2020 Lexus RC coupe is a low-slung 2-door with a long hood, short deck and unmistakable Lexus styling. Intended to menace European coupes like the Audi A5 and BMW 4 Series, the RC packs the muscle and moves to worry the Germans, although both the Audi and BMW offer a more practical rear seat and cargo hold. A better comparison might be the Infiniti Q60 or the more expensive Jaguar F-Type.

To cover all these competitors, Lexus has created a wide and varied RC lineup, starting with the turbocharged 4-cylinder RC 300 and ending with the 472-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 in the RC F. All-wheel drive is also in the mix, but manual-transmission lovers will need to look elsewhere.

The 2020 Lexus RC coupe backs up its sexy shape and aggressive design with strong performance and an engaging driving experience. It’s more fun to drive than most Lexus models. Although it’s heavier than many of its competitors from BMW and Audi, the Lexus is quick and handles well enough for most buyers. Even the base RC turbo, which is badged the RC 300, accelerates quickly and delivers the same catlike reflexes as the RC 350.

More demanding drivers should step up to the V6-powered RC 300 or RC 350; you’ll appreciate the additional power over time. And the F Sport models are worth the investment for the increase in handling, although the stiff ride might be a rude awakening for longtime Lexus owners. Those seeking the ultimate Lexus performer should opt for the 472-horsepower RC F with its intoxicating V8 rumble and thrust.

Keeping in mind that the RC is a small coupe, don’t expect much in the way of rear-seat accommodations or front-seat headroom. That said, the RC’s interior is a very nice place to spend time. The front seats are marvelously supportive on long drives, the sightlines good in all directions, and interior materials and build quality are above reproach.

Gauges are clear and easy to read, and the available 10.3-inch infotainment screen responds quickly to input. Regrettably, that input must be carried out through a rather frustrating touch pad and joystick interface. Unlike the systems in Audi, BMW or Cadillac cars, this one is difficult to operate when the vehicle is in motion, although over time we think most people will grow accustomed to it.

The 2020 Lexus RC marks a radical departure from the company’s sedans and SUV. Oh sure, the signature and somewhat polarizing “spindle” grille is there, but the rest of the body is low and lean, with elegant side sculpting and subtle fins that give it a rather shark-like appearance.

There are plenty of the larger LC coupe’s signature styling cues in the RC, and that’s a good thing. On the RC F and RC F Track Edition, the styling is even more pronounced, with an even larger spindle grille, more aggressive aerodynamics and big 19-inch BBS wheels.

In between the base car and the RC F is the F Sport trim that blends the best of both cars, giving a sporty attitude and more dynamic appearance without the exorbitant RC F price tag.

LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM+
Among the RC’s more notable standard features is a suite of driver assists known collectively as the Lexus Safety System+. Pre-collision warning with the ability to see pedestrian traffic tops the list, followed by auto high beams, lane-departure warning and active-steering assist. Radar-based adaptive cruise control automatically keeps a safe distance from the car ahead, even when speeds vary.

DRIVE MODE SELECT
Through the use of a rotary twist knob located on the console, the 2020 Lexus RC coupe’s Drive Mode Select allows the driver to vary throttle response, select varying transmission shift points and even customize the gauge cluster. The base RC offers settings for Normal, Sport and Sport+, while the F Sport allows personalization of the system and the ability to adjust the suspension.

The 2020 Lexus RC comes as nicely equipped as you’d expect of a luxury-sports coupe. There are standard automatic climate control, a self-dimming rearview mirror, and an infotainment system with a 7-inch display screen, Lexus Safety System+, rearview camera, Lexus Enform Service Connect system and onboard Wi-Fi. The 10-speaker audio system includes HD Radio, dual USB inputs and Bluetooth streaming with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Eyes Free iPhone integration.

F Sport models get standard variable suspension and Sport+ driving mode, heated and ventilated front seats, a suspension tuned for higher performance, and a power-adjust steering wheel. RC F models include bigger brakes, front sport seats and forged BBS aluminum wheels.

The options list starts with a 10.3-inch navigation screen that uses a touch-pad controller and includes an upgraded Enform suite with services such as Yelp, Pandora and stock prices. There are also heated/ventilated front seats, a leather interior, heated steering wheel and a moonroof. The Mark Levinson premium audio system makes even your iPod sound amazing, and should top the list for music lovers.

Advanced safety features include blind-spot monitoring and a pre-collision system that can automatically brake the car. Performance-enhancing options include Lexus Dynamic Handling and Dynamic Rear Steering. RC F models can add to their prowess with a torque-vectoring rear differential and carbon-fiber roof and rear spoiler.

The 2020 Lexus RC coupe comes in four trims, each with its own engine. The base RC 300 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder good for 241 horsepower. Next up is the RC 300 AWD (all-wheel drive) powered by a 260-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. The RC 350 and RC 350 AWD also use a 3.5-liter V6, but one with 311 horsepower. Lastly, there is the range-topping RC F, which is motivated by a 472-horsepower 5.0-liter V8.

The AWD models still employ an outdated 6-speed automatic, but the others get a more sophisticated 8-speed unit, which, on the RC F, gets a higher final-drive ratio (3.13 vs. 2.97) for better off-the-line acceleration. We should note while the horsepower for all of these engines is easily in line with most competitors, you’ll find the fuel economy in Audi and BMW cars to be slightly better.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (RC 300)
241 horsepower @ 5,800 rpm
258 lb-ft of torque @ 1,650-4,400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 21/30 mpg

3.5-liter V6 (RC 300 AWD)
260 horsepower @ 6,600 rpm
280 lb-ft of torque @ 4,800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/24 mpg

3.5-liter V6 (RC 350)
311 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm
277 lb-ft of torque @ 4,800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/28 mpg (RWD), 18/24 mpg (AWD)

5.0-liter V8 (RC F)
472 horsepower @ 7,100 rpm
395 lb-ft of torque @ 4,800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/24 mpg