Lexus’ refreshed RC is a modern-day, old school GT
Lexus debuted its updated RC Coupe at last year’s Paris Motor Show, and now have released it the sporty coupe in South Africa.
The exterior styling remains as sporty as the original RC F Sport, but subtle changes in the details, inspired by the Lexus LC, imbue it with a new-found elegance. In typical Lexus style, there is still a massive model-specific grille up front, and it now gets LC-inspired 19-inch alloy wheels with grippier tyres which support excellent steering response, and give the coupe a wider stance. New shock absorbers, which provide significant damping force from low suspension stroke speeds, and stiffer suspension bushings have also been fitted, which contribute to a lower centre of gravity, all the while improving grip and handling.
The front bumper has been revised, with intakes that extend almost to the angular headlights, creating a contrast of shapes that gives the RC a truly unique face. The headlights are also new, and feature new L-shaped LED clearance lamps and extra-small triple LED headlamps, all of which add to the car’s more distinguished appearance.
At the rear, there are some minor updates too. Much like the original RC, there are air ducts incorporated into the rear bumper, however, these have been reshaped to resemble those seen at the front. Lexus claims that these aero tweaks result in better handling stability and an enhanced overall driving response. The rear combination lamps now house more pronounced L-shaped lenses that are a new signature design feature for Lexus coupes.
Lexus has always been at the forefront of technology and the RC 350 F Sport features some class-leading technology. The RC 350 F Sport is fitted with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), which electronically controls and monitors all four dampers simultaneously to suit certain conditions and driving preferences; as well as an electric power-assisted rack and pinion steering (EPS) for agile driving, responsive steering feel and confidence-building straight-line stability. It also boasts the additional feature of Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) on the front wheels and Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) on the rear as part of a three-fold Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH) strategy.
In the spirit of a true driver’s car, Lexus has shunned forced induction and has retained its naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6. Power remains largely unchanged at 232kw and 380nm, and is sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed SPDS automatic transmission. Expect 0-100kph to come up in 6.3 seconds, while the 1,740kg coupe will max out at 230kph. Lexus claim the RC 350 will sip unleaded at a rate of 9.1L/100kms.
Lexus has trimmed down its RC range to now include just one model – the RC 350 F Sport – until the V8-engined RC F and RC F Track Edition arrive in South Africa towards the end of 2019. The RC 350 F Sport has been priced from R939 100, and boasts a best-in-class, 7-year/105 000km Warranty and Full Maintenance Plan as well as a Lexus Distance Plan Complete.
Also worth a look: the 2026 Lexus RZ Launched in South Africa | Price & Specs and the Lexus RZ Becomes a Moving Canvas in Collaboration with Artis.
FAQ
Q: What does the Lexus RC 350 F Sport cost in South Africa?
The Lexus RC 350 F Sport starts from around R895,000 in South Africa, making it a premium coupe that sits in the luxury sports car segment alongside rivals like the BMW 4 Series and Audi A5.
Q: Is the Lexus RC 350 F Sport worth buying?
The RC 350 F Sport is worth buying if you want a distinctive luxury coupe with excellent build quality and unique styling, but it's not the sharpest tool in the sports coupe shed when it comes to pure driving dynamics compared to German rivals.
Q: What engine does the Lexus RC 350 F Sport have?
The RC 350 F Sport packs a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 232kW and 380Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the rear wheels.
Q: How fast is the Lexus RC 350 F Sport?
The RC 350 F Sport sprints from 0-100kph in 6.0 seconds and has a top speed limited to 230kph, making it respectably quick but not as rapid as turbocharged German competitors.
Q: What are the main competitors to the Lexus RC 350 F Sport?
The RC 350 F Sport's main rivals include the BMW 440i Coupe, Audi S5 Coupe, and Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe, all of which offer similar luxury and performance in the premium coupe segment.
Should You Buy It?
The Lexus RC 350 F Sport is a maybe buy at R895,000. It's undeniably gorgeous with that wild spindle grille and has the kind of build quality that'll outlast the apocalypse, but it's more of a grand tourer than a proper sports coupe. The naturally aspirated V6 sounds fantastic but lacks the punch of turbocharged German rivals, and the handling is composed rather than thrilling. If you want something different that stands out from the sea of BMW and Audi coupes, and reliability matters more than lap times, the RC 350 F Sport delivers. However, if you're after the sharpest driving experience in this price bracket, the BMW 440i or Audi S5 will serve you better. The RC is for buyers who value uniqueness and Lexus' legendary dependability over outright performance prowess.
