When the Lexus RC was unveiled in 2019, the compact sports car arrived with sharper styling to keep the automaker’s entry-level performance vehicle fresh. With the sports car entering its eighth model year on sale, we expect the 2022 Lexus RC to be a carryover model.
Originally, the Lexus RC arrived in 2015 with a compact footprint, a massive front grille, and sharp body lines. In 2019, the sports car received updated exterior styling that brought more upscale headlights, softer fender flares, and a more curvaceous hood line. At the back, the current RC wears wraparound taillights, dual exhaust outlets, and a rounded rear bumper. As a carryover model, the 2022 Lexus RC will have the same design as the current model.
On the inside, the current Lexus RC has a straightforward design that we expect to go unchanged for the 2022 model year. The infotainment screen sits recessed in the dashboard, while an analog clock separates the dashboard from the center console controls. Passengers are treated to high-end materials and comfortable front seats in the current RC, though the rear seats are best used for storage as they’re too small for children.
On top of a 7-inch display, the current RC comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, Wi-Fi hot spot, satellite radio, two USB ports, and a 10-speaker audio system as standard. Optional features include a 10.3-inch display, a Mark Levinson audio system, navigation, and voice recognition. We expect these tech features to continue to be offered on the 2022 Lexus RC.
There are four different powertrains to choose from with the current RC. These same engines will be available for the upcoming 2022 RC. The standard engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 241 horsepower. Two 3.5-liter V6 engines are available, producing 260 hp and 311 hp, respectively. The 311-hp V6 engine is available with all-wheel drive. At the top of the range sits a 5.0-liter V8 that’s rated at 472 hp. Rear-wheel-drive RC models come with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while all-wheel-drive models are equipped with a six-speed automatic.
Standard safety features on the current RC include adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, and pedestrian detection. Optional features include parking assist and parking sensors. In the IIHS’ testing, the current RC earned a rating of “Good” in all six of its crash tests. These safety features and crash-test scores are expected to go unchanged for the 2022 Lexus RC.
