2017 Lexus RC

Overview

For some car shoppers, appearances are everything, and aesthetically, the Lexus RC presents a spirited façade that disguises the luxury car hiding beneath the surface. None of the RC’s three engine choices provide neck-snapping acceleration, but all models feature a comfortable ride and a lavish cabin with plenty of space for two adults. Communicative steering is a shining point for the RC, but otherwise performance is more blah than huzzah. Technologically speaking, the Lexus lags behind rivals such as the Audi A5 and the BMW 4-series, both of which offer better smartphone connectivity and a superior repertoire of active safety features.

What's New for 2017?

The RC slides into the 2017 model year with only a few updates, which are mostly cosmetic: updated 18- and 19-inch wheel designs, a new grille finished in metallic black paint, and the addition of a tenth exterior color called Caviar. Inside, Lexus has added an app called Scout GPS Link to cars without the optional in-dash navigation system. This allows smartphones to project turn-by-turn directions to the dashtop infotainment screen.

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Pricing

Original MSRP:

• 200t: $41,150
• 300: $43,765
• 350: $44,005

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

All three of the RC’s powertrain options provide adequate—but not speedy—motivation. The entry-level 200t is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four making 241 horsepower and mated to an eight-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is this model’s only setup. We found the eight-speed to be a good match for the turbo four, but the engine isn’t up to the task of pulling the RC around with any alacrity. Lexus offers two 3.5-liter V-6 engines to address the lack of power. In the RC300, the V-6 makes 255 horsepower and pairs with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The range-topping RC350 gets 306 horsepower and the slick-shifting eight-speed automatic with rear-wheel drive or the six-speed when equipped with all-wheel drive. In our testing, we’ve found this engine to be velvety smooth with linear power delivery, but it’s still not as gutsy as its rivals. Ride comfort is where the RC succeeds—and it does so with honors. It's not as eager as tauter coupes when it comes to enthusiastic driving, but there’s still some room to play.

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Fuel Economy

EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The RC’s well-made interior is stylish, comfortable, and spacious, but only for front-seat passengers. Its wild exterior styling brings interior drawbacks: a tight back seat and big blind spots. All RC models come with dual-zone automatic climate control adjusted by touch-sensitive slider controls that are surprisingly intuitive and easy to use. Higher trims feature added luxury touches, including supple leather seats with contrasting stitching. Cargo space is limited in the RC, so if you’re looking to take a long road trip, you’d better pack light. Small-item storage throughout the cabin isn’t particularly voluminous, either.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

Lexus’s Enform infotainment system is lagging behind the times; its controls are clunky, especially the optional touchpad, and it lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. All RC models come with a 7.0-inch infotainment display set inside the multi-level dashboard. The system is controlled by a knob and a series of buttons on the center console. When equipped with one of the two optional navigation packages, the system swaps the rotating knob for a laptop-style touchpad that is frustrating to use because of its imprecision. We’d stick with the more intuitive standard setup.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

For more information about the Lexus RC’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.