2020 Lexus RC F

History/Overview

Lexus launched this high-performance coupe in 2015 model as a companion to more sedate versions of the RC, which, in turn, is based on the IS compact sedan. Where the RC 300 and RC 350 use V6 engines, the RC F trades them for a 5.0L V8.

This is Lexus' sportiest car. It eschews the turbocharging technology that many of its competitors use to provide big speed while reducing fuel consumption. In that sense, the RC F is atypical for Lexus, whose Toyota parent company has a reputation for an obsession with fuel economy.

What's New / Key Changes from Last Year

For 2020, Lexus has updated the RC F's design, but more notable are changes aimed at improving the car's handling.

A new Track Edition boasts an 80-kg weight reduction compared to the outgoing RC F, which Lexus says gives the car the best power-to-weight ration in its class. Some of that weight saving is down to a roof and hood.

The standard RC F went on a diet too. The intake manifold, air conditioning compressor and new hollow half-shafts are among the components revised to reduce mass.

Lexus has also retuned the RC F's suspension for more responsiveness with the help of new, stiffer steering rack and front subframe bushings.

Lexus said it also massaged the RC F's 5.0L gets enhanced throttle response and gains 5 hp and 6 lb-ft of torque for new totals of 472 hp and 395 lb-ft.

Available Trims

As mentioned above, RC F trims consist of a base model and the Track Edition.

Standard Features

RC F's standard features include a heated steering wheel, paddle shifters, Enform app suite 2.0, navigation, Apple CarPlay, a 10-speaker stereo, 10.3-inch infotainment display, heated and ventilated front seats with eight-way power adjustment, leather upholstery, sport gauges, passive keyless entry, dynamic radar cruise control, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, forward collision warning with automatic braking, automatic high beams and lane departure alert with steering assist.

Key Options

Options start with a Performance package that brings a 17-speaker stereo, parking assist, electric steering wheel adjustments, torque vectoring differential, carbon fibre roof and active rear spoiler and 19-inch wheels.

The Track Edition is the other option. It comes with carbon ceramic brakes, carbon fibre aerodynamics kit and hood, Alcantara leather seating and various exterior styling tweaks. Notably, the Track Edition takes the RC F's price to around $120,000.

Fuel Economy

Lexus' fuel consumption estimates for the RC F are 14.4/9.6 L/100 km (city/highway).

Competition

With the RC F, Lexus competes with better-known sport coupes like the BMW M4, Mercedes-AMG C 63 and Audi RS 5. Lexus is among the minority that does not fit AWD as standard; in fact, it's not available at all.