2018 Lexus RC

Overview

The Lexus RC is offered with three different engines—a turbo inline-four and two naturally aspirated V-6s—but none of them provide thrilling performance. Instead, the RC is content to coddle its occupants with a plush ride and a comfortable cabin with space for two. Active safety features, such as automated emergency braking and adaptive cruise control, are standard, but smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto is unavailable. The RC is simply outclassed by more modern rivals that offer heftier helpings of both style and substance.

What's New for 2018?

For 2018, the 200t name is dropped, and that model now shares the name 300 with the V-6–equipped all-wheel-drive model. Both the V-6–powered 300 and the 350 get a 5 hp boost to 260 and 311, respectively. F Sport trims now offer a customizable drive mode, and a new color, Flare Yellow. The RC’s Enform infotainment system sees a number of upgrades, and Lexus has made its suite of active safety features standard on every RC.

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Pricing

Original MSRP:

• RC300: $41,635
• RC300 F Sport: $41,635
• RC350: $44,565
• RC350 F Sport: $44,565

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Entry-level rear-wheel drive 300 and 300 F Sport RC trims are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four making 241 hp and mated exclusively to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V-6 in the all-wheel drive 300 and 300 F Sport makes 260 hp and pairs with a six-speed automatic transmission. The V-6 in the range-topping 350 and 350 F Sport produces 311 hp and mates to a slick-shifting eight-speed automatic with rear-wheel drive, or the six-speed when equipped with all-wheel drive. All of the RC’s powertrain options provide adequate—but not speedy—motivation. Acceleration from the turbo four-cylinder is particularly underwhelming. Ride comfort is where the all RC models succeed—with honors. The RC is not as eager as tauter coupes when it comes to enthusiastic driving, but there’s still some room to play.

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 cabin features high-quality materials and a design that is uniquely Lexus. The interior is stylish, comfortable, and spacious, but only for front-seat passengers; those in back will be cramped. All RC models come with power front seats that are supportive and well cushioned, as well as dual-zone automatic climate control. Cargo space is limited, 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, but the Lexus’s rivals don’t offer much, either.

Infotainment and Connectivity

All RC models come with a 7.0-inch infotainment display, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 10-speaker audio, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system is controlled by a knob and a series of buttons on the center console. When the RC is equipped with one of two optional navigation packages, the knob is swapped for a 10.3-inch touchpad that is frustrating to use because of its imprecision. Lexus’s Enform infotainment system is lagging behind the times; its controls are clunky, and it lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

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.