Lexus RC F Sport Review: Does the Style Justify the Performance?

The Lexus RC: A Study in Automotive Contrasts

The Lexus RC has always occupied a curious space in the luxury coupe segment. With its dramatic styling and meticulously crafted interior, it makes an immediate visual statement that few competitors can match. Yet behind the wheel, the experience hasn't always lived up to the promise of its sheetmetal. The 2019 model year brings the first significant updates since the RC's 2015 debut, targeting the very aspects that left driving enthusiasts wanting more.

Visual Drama That Delivers

There's no denying the RC's arresting presence. The evolution of Lexus's spindle grille reaches new levels of boldness in the F Sport trim, flanked by aggressive air intakes and sharp character lines that flow rearward. The 2019 refresh adds:

• Revised LED lighting front and rear with new signature patterns
• Fresh wheel designs up to 19 inches in diameter
• Subtle aerodynamic enhancements to the front fascia
• New color options including ultra-saturated hues

The interior continues Lexus's reputation for impeccable fit and finish, with the F Sport adding:

• Contoured sport seats with enhanced bolstering
• Unique instrumentation including the moving circle tachometer
• Aluminum sport pedals and F Sport badging
• Available premium materials like semi-aniline leather
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2019 Updates: What's Changed Under the Skin

While the visual updates garner attention, the mechanical revisions prove more significant for driving enthusiasts. Lexus engineers focused on three key areas:

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On the Road: Handling Improvements Shine

The chassis updates yield immediately noticeable benefits when pushing the RC through challenging roads. Where previous models felt vague when cornering at limit, the 2019 version demonstrates:

• Sharper turn-in response
• Reduced body roll in aggressive maneuvers
• More communicative steering feedback
• Improved grip from the revised tires

Testing the rear-wheel-drive RC 300 F Sport on winding mountain roads revealed competent handling dynamics. The front end tracks accurately through corners, with only mild understeer appearing when carrying excessive speed into tight downhill turns. The suspension strikes an admirable balance between sporty responsiveness and daily-driver compliance.

The Persistent Powertrain Problem

While the chassis improvements deserve praise, the RC 300's turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder proves the weak link. The 241-horsepower engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission suffers from:

• Noticeable turbo lag below 2,500 rpm
• Slow transmission response even in Sport+ mode
• Lackluster acceleration (0-60 mph in ~7 seconds)
• Uninspiring engine note

The powertrain's lethargic nature becomes particularly apparent when compared to contemporary rivals:

Model	Engine	Horsepower	0-60 mph	Transmission
Lexus RC 300	2.0L Turbo I4	241 hp	7.0 sec	8-speed auto
BMW 430i	2.0L Turbo I4	255 hp	5.5 sec	8-speed auto
Genesis G70 2.0T	2.0L Turbo I4	252 hp	5.7 sec	8-speed auto

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Competitive Landscape: How the RC Stacks Up

At its $53,415 as-tested price (including destination), the RC 300 F Sport enters a fiercely competitive segment. Consider these alternatives:

Genesis G70

The MotorVero Best of 2019 winner delivers superior driving dynamics, more standard features, and a longer warranty at a lower price point.

BMW 4 Series

While more expensive when similarly equipped, the BMW offers sharper handling and a far more responsive powertrain.

Toyota Supra

Lexus's corporate cousin provides true sports car performance for similar money, albeit with even less practicality.

Audi A5 Sportback

Combines coupe styling with actual rear seat usability and available all-wheel drive.

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Daily Driving Considerations

As a grand tourer rather than a hardcore sports car, the RC must excel at daily driving duties. Here it delivers mixed results:

Comfort & Refinement

The cabin remains quiet at highway speeds, with excellent isolation from road and wind noise. The sport seats provide ample support for long drives without becoming fatiguing.

Technology Interface

While the addition of Apple CarPlay addresses previous infotainment shortcomings, Lexus's joystick controller remains less intuitive than competitors' rotary dial or touchscreen systems.

Practicality Limitations

The RC's 2+2 configuration offers minimal rear seat space (just 29.2 inches of legroom) and a modest 10.4 cubic foot trunk. The large door openings make entry/exit easier than some rivals despite the low roofline.