Is the RC F manual?
Short answer: No — the RC F was never offered with a manual transmission; it uses an 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters.
The RC F is Lexus’s high-performance variant of the RC coupe, introduced in 2014 to compete with other V8-powered sports coupes. This article explains why there is no factory manual option, what transmission the car uses, and what alternatives exist for buyers who specifically want a manual gearbox.
Transmission Options for the RC F
The RC F’s drivetrain pairing is built around the 5.0-liter V8 and a single transmission choice intended to maximize performance and reliability. Here’s what you should know:
What you get with the automatic
The RC F uses an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters for manual-style control, along with performance features like rev-matching and launch control in some markets. Lexus did not offer a factory manual transmission for the RC F in any market or model year.
Before listing the key facts, note that this page focuses on the production RC F; there is no official manual variant from Lexus.
- All RC F models use an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
- There has never been a factory manual option for the RC F.
- Aftermarket manual swaps are rare, costly, and not supported by Lexus.
In summary, the RC F prioritizes automatic performance over a manual gearbox, so buyers seeking a manual should look at other models or brands.
Alternatives for manual transmission enthusiasts
If a manual transmission is essential, several rival coupes offer manuals, while the RC F remains automatic-only. Here are common options:
- Ford Mustang GT — widely available with a 6-speed manual in many trims.
- Chevrolet Camaro SS — offered with a 6-speed manual in current configurations.
Availability can vary by year and market; check current specifications with dealers or manufacturers.
Summary
The RC F does not come with a manual transmission. It ships with an 8-speed automatic paired to the 5.0-liter V8, with paddle shifters for driver control. For enthusiasts who specifically want a manual gearbox, alternatives include the Ford Mustang GT or Chevrolet Camaro SS, or choosing other Lexus models historically available with manual transmissions. As of now, a factory RC F manual variant does not exist.
