Model Preview
The Lexus RC and RC F debuted way back in 2014, and while it is still a sharp sports coupe, it is overdue for some change. We expect the base 2020 Lexus RC to remain the same, but the even sportier RC F will introduce some much-needed change with a light visual refresh, a tweaked powertrain, and a new, track-focused model.
On the outside, the 2020 Lexus RC and RC F will retain their basic designs, but the F will bring in some mild changes. These updates will include new stacked LED headlights and integrated daytime running lights, a lower lip opening across the bottom of the signature spindle grille, and new taillights. The 2020 RC F will also go on a diet and drop some weight thanks to hollow half shafts, a pared-down intake manifold, a smaller air-conditioning compressor, and aluminum toe control brackets and upper suspension support brackets.
The biggest visual changes will come in the form of the all-new RC F Track Edition. This model will weigh about 176 pounds less than the previous RC F thanks to its carbon-fiber roof, hood, partition behind the rear seats, and bumper reinforcements. There will also be a carbon-fiber fixed rear wing spoiler and lightweight 19-inch BBS forged alloy wheels.
Lexus released no information on the 2020 RC and RC F’s standard interiors, so we expect them to remain essentially unchanged in this area. Look for it to retain its sporty-but-luxurious look and feel with supple leather sport seats, tons of bold color options, sueded upholstery, and even simulated carbon-fiber trim. The Track Edition will set itself apart with red leather upholstery, Alcantara-accented seats, and red carbon accents.
Under its hood, we expect the 2020 RC to continue with the same engine lineup that will include a base 241-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter powering the RC 300 and a 311-hp 3.5-liter V6 in the RC 350. The one oddball of the group will remain the RC 300 with all-wheel drive, which we expect to retain its 260-hp version of the 3.5-liter V6.
The RC F, however, will gain a revised version of the existing 5.0-liter V8 engine. The 5.0-liter B8 powerplant will push 472 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque — gains of 5 hp and 6 lb-ft — through an eight-speed automatic transmission and to the rear wheels. Lexus will also change the final-drive ratio to 3.13-to-1 for a quicker off-the-line response.
The RC F Track Edition will use the same powertrain, but it will boast a few other upgrades. These upgrades will include new carbon-ceramic brake rotors and electronic launch control that drops its 0-to-60 time to just 3.96 seconds.
The current Lexus RC is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, thanks to its “Good” crash-test scores and “Superior” front crash avoidance technology. What’s more, the current RC F comes standard with the Lexus Safety System+, which includes the required automatic emergency braking to receive this rating. We expect these ratings and the standard safety features to carry on unchanged in the 2020 Lexus RC F.
Pricing & Release Date
Production of the 2020 Lexus RC F will kick off in the second quarter of 2019.
Pricing remains unknown for now, but look for the 2020 Lexus RC and RC F to have a small uptick in price from the current model’s $42,170 to $65,745 (destination fees included). We expect the Track Edition to push the price cap up a few thousand dollars.
The Lexus RC will battle the BMW 4-Series, Audi A5, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe.
Learn more about the current RC on sale now »
Pictured: 2020 RC F
