The 2025 Lexus RC remains a striking two-door, four-seat luxury coupe that prioritizes style and comfort over raw performance. While competitors from Audi and BMW excel with more dynamic powertrains and sharp handling, the RC is better suited for smooth and quiet cruising.
Its cabin, constructed with premium materials, is spacious and supportive for front passengers. The rear seats, though cramped for adults, can serve as extra storage or accommodate occasional passengers.
The base RC300’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides adequate performance, but those craving more power may prefer the optional 3.5-liter V6. For true enthusiasts, the RC F offers a high-performance V8 experience.
Meanwhile, the RC300 and RC350 excel as grand tourers, providing long-distance comfort and smooth daily driving, though they fall short of delivering the sporty dynamics suggested by their aggressive styling.
What’s New for 2025?
As Lexus bids farewell to the RC after an 11-year run, the 2025 model introduces only one notable update: F Sport models now feature red brake calipers instead of the previous orange.
Pricing and Recommendations
The 2025 Lexus RC starts at $46,445 and tops out at $53,995, depending on trim and options:
- RC300: $46,445
- RC350: $49,375
- RC300 F Sport: $51,065
- RC350 F Sport: $53,995
Given its refined demeanor, the base RC300 is the best choice for most buyers. For those seeking performance, the 311-horsepower RC350 offers an upgrade, but the extra cost might be better spent on the high-powered RC F. All-wheel drive is available for an additional fee.
Opting for the Premium Package enhances comfort with heated and ventilated seats, memory settings, rain-sensing wipers, and heated exterior mirrors. For cold climates, the Weather Package includes features like wiper deicers and a fast-response heater.
Powertrain and Performance
- RC300: Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine
- Power: 241 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic (rear-wheel drive)
- Performance: Smooth acceleration, but lacks urgency
- RC300 AWD: Naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6
- Power: 260 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic (all-wheel drive)
- RC350: 3.5-liter V6 (tuned to 311 hp and 280 lb-ft)
- Performance: A 5.6-second 0–60 mph time trails behind rivals like the BMW 440i, which achieves the same in 4.4 seconds.
While not devoid of sporty traits, the RC excels in delivering a comfortable and refined ride.
Fuel Economy
The RC falls short in fuel efficiency compared to its competitors:
- RC300 RWD: 21 mpg city / 31 mpg highway (29 mpg in real-world testing)
- RC350 RWD: 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The RC’s interior is a standout for its quality and comfort, particularly for front passengers. The seats are supportive and crafted with high-quality leather, while the cabin remains impressively quiet.
However, the low roofline limits rear-seat usability and creates significant blind spots. Trunk space is modest, accommodating four carry-ons, or five with the rear seats folded.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Standard features include:
- 8.0-inch touchscreen (optional 10.3-inch upgrade)
- Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility
- Optional Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system, bundled with the larger touchscreen and navigation.
Safety Features
Part of the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, the RC includes:
- Forward collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Lane-keeping assist and lane departure warning
- Adaptive cruise control
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