A Brief Look at the Lexus RC
The Birth of a Luxury Coupe: The First Generation Lexus RC
In 2014, Lexus introduced the world to the RC, a two-door coupe that would become one of the most sought-after luxury vehicles on the market. The first-generation RC was built on the same platform as the IS sedan and featured a sleek, aerodynamic body that was both stylish and efficient.
Under the hood of the RC 350, drivers could find a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produced 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, while the RC F boasted a 5.0-liter V8 engine that put out an impressive 467 horsepower and 389 lb-ft of torque.
The RC 300h, released in 2015, was the first hybrid model in the RC lineup. It featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor for a combined output of 181 horsepower.
The first-generation RC also featured a range of performance enhancements such as the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), which allowed drivers to adjust the suspension for a smoother or more aggressive ride, and a limited-slip differential that provided superior traction control.
The Second Generation: The Lexus RC Comes of Age
In 2018, Lexus unveiled the second-generation RC, which offered a variety of upgrades and improvements over its predecessor. The second-generation RC was longer, wider, and lower than the first-gen, giving it a more aggressive stance on the road.
One of the most significant upgrades to the second-gen RC was the introduction of the RC 300, which featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produced 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. However, the most significant change came in the form of a redesigned front fascia that featured a new grille, headlights, and bumper.
The RC F received significant enhancements to its engine, taking the horsepower up a notch to 472, and it received performance upgrades such as a new rear wing, sport-tuned suspension, and a torque-vectoring differential.
Other notable advancements in the second-gen RC included a new infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a new touchpad controller, and a suite of driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.
The Lexus RC Performance Package: A Track-Ready Coupe
Lexus released a performance package for the second-gen RC that was designed with track enthusiasts in mind. The Performance Package added upgraded brake pads, a carbon fiber roof and active sport exhaust, and the RC F’s torque-vectoring differential to the standard RC 350.
The Package provided a more engaging driving experience, allowing drivers to push the boundaries of the car’s performance while still offering the luxury and comfort that Lexus is known for.
The RC Blackline Special Edition: A Stylish Take on the Lexus RC
In 2019, Lexus released the RC Blackline Edition, featuring unique styling and exclusive features that set it apart from the standard RC. The Blackline Edition featured a striking black grille, black exterior mirrors and dark-finished 19-inch wheels. The interior also received a blacked-out treatment, with black leather seats and dark grey stitching, and a host of exclusive features such as a Mark Levinson surround-sound system.
The Blackline Edition was only available in limited quantities, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item among Lexus enthusiasts.
Lexus RC F Track Edition: The Ultimate Performance Coupe
In 2020, Lexus released the RC F Track Edition, which was the pinnacle of the RC lineup. The RC F Track Edition was even more powerful than the standard RC F, producing a whopping 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque, thanks to a new titanium exhaust system and recalibrated suspension.
The Track Edition also featured a host of weight-saving measures such as a carbon fiber roof and hood, Brembo brakes, and forged 19-inch wheels. The interior was also upgraded with Alcantara and leather sport seats, along with carbon fiber accents throughout the cabin.
The RC F Track Edition was a limited production model and is highly sought after by collectors and track enthusiasts alike.
The Future of the Lexus RC
The Lexus RC has solidified its place in the luxury coupe market since its introduction in 2014, and the future looks bright for this stylish and performance-focused vehicle.
Lexus has yet to announce any significant updates to the RC lineup for the next few years. However, with the continuous advancements in automotive technology and Lexus’ reputation for creating top-of-the-line luxury vehicles, the RC’s future could be anything but predictable.
Whether you’re a fan of the sleek and stylish design of the first-gen RC or the track-ready performance of the RC F Track Edition, one thing is clear: the Lexus RC has become a staple in the luxury coupe market and will continue to be a sought-after vehicle for years to come.