Powertrain and Performance
The Lexus RC offers a range of powertrain options to suit different driving needs and preferences. The base RC 300 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and sends power to the rear wheels.
For those seeking more power, the RC 350 features a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine is also mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and is available with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
At the top of the RC lineup is the RC F, which is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine that produces 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. The RC F comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive.
Handling and Driving Dynamics
The Lexus RC is known for its sharp handling and responsive driving dynamics. The car’s low center of gravity and balanced weight distribution contribute to its agility and cornering ability. The RC also features a double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, which provide excellent stability and control.
The RC’s steering is precise and well-weighted, giving the driver a good sense of the car’s position on the road. The brakes are also strong and progressive, providing ample stopping power.
Overall, the Lexus RC is a well-rounded sports car that offers a thrilling driving experience. It combines strong performance with agile handling and responsive controls, making it a joy to drive on both the street and the track.
Performance Specifications
The following table compares the performance specifications of different RC variants:
| Variant | Engine | Horsepower | Torque | 0-60 mph (s) | Top Speed (mph) |
|—|—|—|—|—|—|
| RC 300 | 2.0L Turbocharged I4 | 241 | 258 | 5.8 | 143 |
| RC 350 | 3.5L V6 | 311 | 280 | 5.4 | 155 |
| RC F | 5.0L V8 | 472 | 395 | 4.2 | 168 |
Safety and Technology
The 2026 Lexus RC boasts a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features and driver-assist systems, elevating your driving experience with peace of mind. These cutting-edge technologies work seamlessly to enhance situational awareness, prevent accidents, and provide a secure driving environment.
Driver-Assist Systems
The RC is equipped with a comprehensive array of driver-assist systems designed to enhance your driving experience. Lane departure warning alerts you when you unintentionally drift out of your lane, while adaptive cruise control maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your speed to match traffic flow. Blind-spot monitoring uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spots, providing visual and audible alerts to minimize the risk of lane changes.
Safety Features
Beyond driver-assist systems, the RC incorporates an array of advanced safety features to protect you and your passengers. The pre-collision system with pedestrian detection scans the road ahead for potential hazards, automatically applying the brakes if a collision is imminent. The lane keeping assist system gently corrects your steering to keep you centered within your lane, reducing the risk of drifting. The rear cross-traffic alert system monitors for approaching vehicles when reversing, providing audible alerts to enhance visibility and prevent accidents.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Lane Departure Warning | Alerts you when you unintentionally drift out of your lane |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead |
| Blind-Spot Monitoring | Detects vehicles in your blind spots |
| Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection | Scans the road ahead for potential hazards and applies the brakes if a collision is imminent |
| Lane Keeping Assist | Gently corrects your steering to keep you centered within your lane |
| Rear Cross-Traffic Alert | Monitors for approaching vehicles when reversing |
Pricing and Availability
The pricing of the 2026 Lexus RC has not been officially announced yet, but it is expected to start at around $45,000 for the base model. Higher trim levels, such as the F Sport and RC F, will likely cost more. Lexus has not announced any special editions or limited-edition models of the RC for 2026.
Pricing Comparison
The following table compares the expected pricing of different RC variants:
| Variant | Price |
|---|---|
| RC 300 | $45,000 |
| RC 350 | $47,000 |
| RC F Sport | $50,000 |
| RC F | $60,000 |
Competition
The 2026 Lexus RC competes in the highly competitive luxury coupe segment, facing off against established rivals like the BMW 4 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe, and Audi A5 Coupe. Each of these vehicles offers a unique blend of performance, luxury, and technology, catering to discerning drivers seeking a stylish and dynamic driving experience.
Key Competitors
- BMW 4 Series
- Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe
- Audi A5 Coupe
Strengths and Weaknesses
The RC holds its own against its competitors, offering a compelling package of features, performance, and value. However, it also has some areas where it could improve. Here’s a breakdown of the RC’s strengths and weaknesses compared to its rivals:
| Feature | Lexus RC | BMW 4 Series | Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe | Audi A5 Coupe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Performance | 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds | 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds | 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds | 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds |
| Fuel Economy | 25 mpg combined | 28 mpg combined | 26 mpg combined | 27 mpg combined |
| Technology | Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 | BMW iDrive 7 | Mercedes-Benz MBUX | Audi Virtual Cockpit |
| Pricing | Starting at $46,000 | Starting at $46,500 | Starting at $48,000 | Starting at $44,000 |
Overall, the 2026 Lexus RC offers a competitive package in the luxury coupe segment. Its combination of performance, luxury, and technology make it a worthy contender against established rivals like the BMW 4 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe, and Audi A5 Coupe.
FAQ Summary
What are the key features of the 2026 Lexus RC?
The 2026 Lexus RC boasts a plethora of cutting-edge features, including a sleek and aggressive exterior design, a luxurious and driver-centric interior, advanced infotainment and sound systems, a powerful and efficient powertrain, a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assist technologies, and a host of comfort and convenience amenities.
How does the 2026 Lexus RC compare to its competitors?
The 2026 Lexus RC stands out in the luxury coupe segment with its exceptional blend of style, performance, and technology. It offers a more refined and luxurious experience than its German rivals, while also delivering exhilarating driving dynamics and a lower price point. Compared to its Japanese competitors, the RC boasts a more aggressive design, a more powerful engine, and a more advanced infotainment system.
What is the expected price range of the 2026 Lexus RC?
The 2026 Lexus RC is expected to have a starting price in the mid-$50,000 range, with higher trim levels and options pushing the price into the low-$70,000 range.
When will the 2026 Lexus RC be available?
The 2026 Lexus RC is expected to be released in the second half of 2025 as a 2026 model.