What is the difference between a Lexus RC and RC F?
The Lexus RC and RC F are two stunning luxury coupes from Lexus, each offering a unique driving experience. While they share a similar design language and platform, they cater to different audiences with distinct performance capabilities, features, and price points. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences to help you decide which model suits your needs.
Performance and Engine
The most significant difference between the Lexus RC and RC F lies in their performance and engine specifications. Here’s how they compare:
- Lexus RC: The RC is available with multiple engine options, including a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4, a 3.5L V6, and a hybrid powertrain. These engines are designed for a balance of performance and efficiency, making the RC an excellent choice for daily driving and long-distance cruising.
- Lexus RC F: The RC F is the high-performance variant of the RC lineup. It features a 5.0L naturally aspirated V8 engine that delivers exhilarating power and a thrilling exhaust note. With over 470 horsepower, the RC F is built for enthusiasts who crave speed and precision on the road or track.
In summary, the RC is more versatile and practical for everyday use, while the RC F is tailored for those seeking a high-performance driving experience.
Design and Styling
While both models share the same coupe silhouette, the RC F stands out with aggressive styling cues that emphasize its performance-oriented nature:
- Lexus RC: The RC features a sleek and elegant design with a focus on luxury. It includes refined details such as a spindle grille, LED headlights, and smooth body lines.
- Lexus RC F: The RC F takes the design up a notch with a more aggressive front fascia, larger air intakes, a functional hood vent, and a rear spoiler. These elements not only enhance its sporty appearance but also improve aerodynamics and cooling.
Overall, the RC exudes sophistication, while the RC F makes a bold statement with its race-inspired aesthetics.
Interior and Features
Both the RC and RC F offer luxurious interiors, but the RC F includes additional features to complement its performance focus:
- Lexus RC: The RC comes with high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and advanced technology, such as a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It’s designed to provide a relaxing and enjoyable driving experience.
- Lexus RC F: The RC F adds sportier touches, including bolstered sport seats, carbon fiber trim, and a unique instrument cluster inspired by Lexus’ LFA supercar. It also includes performance-oriented features like a torque-vectoring differential (on certain trims) and adaptive suspension.
While both models are luxurious, the RC F’s interior is tailored for drivers who prioritize performance and sporty aesthetics.
Price and Target Audience
The price difference between the RC and RC F reflects their distinct purposes:
- Lexus RC: The RC is more affordable, making it an attractive option for those seeking a luxury coupe with a balance of style, comfort, and performance.
- Lexus RC F: The RC F is priced higher due to its powerful V8 engine, advanced performance features, and exclusive design elements. It’s aimed at driving enthusiasts who are willing to pay a premium for a high-performance vehicle.
In essence, the RC is ideal for luxury coupe buyers, while the RC F is perfect for those who want a track-ready machine with everyday usability.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Lexus RC and RC F ultimately depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for a stylish and comfortable luxury coupe for daily driving, the Lexus RC is an excellent choice. However, if you’re a performance enthusiast who craves power and precision, the Lexus RC F is the way to go. Both models showcase Lexus’ commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and innovation, ensuring a rewarding ownership experience no matter which one you choose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does f stand for in Lexus?
flagship and Fuji Speedway
The Lexus F and F-Sport marque is the high-performance division of cars produced by Lexus. The F is short for flagship and Fuji Speedway, the chief test site of Lexus performance vehicle development in Oyama, Suntō District, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan.
What model Lexus is the fastest?
The Lexus LC 500, Lexus RC F and the all-new 2023 Lexus IS 500 F are the three fastest cars Lexus provides. Which one would you consider the performance car of your dreams? Discover the LC 500's incredible power for yourself. The LC 500 was created by engineers who will not settle for anything less than perfection.
What does RC F stand for in Lexus?
You don't take on that lot lightly, but Lexus believes the RC F (the RC stands for Radical Coupe; the F for Fuji, as the power curve resembles the slope of the mountain) sits in its own niche within those ranks. Its USP, it reckons, is not vast power or unshakeable handling, it's... driver friendliness.
What does Lexus RC F mean?
Radical Coupe
Lexus RC/RC F
As the first Lexus hybrid packaged in a premium two-door coupe shell, this Radical Coupe not only delivers impressive design, Lexus luxury and craftsmanship, but also a refined and engaging driving experience. The F in RC F denotes our high-performance, sports models.
What does F SPORT add to Lexus RC?
While every 2025 RC boasts a driver-focused interior, the RC F SPORT goes further with race-inspired features, including an F SPORT–badged steering wheel, a perforated leather–trimmed shift knob and aluminum sport pedals.
Is the Lexus RC F being discontinued?
Lexus will end production of the RC and RC F this year, adding the coupes to the ranks of internal combustion two-door cars being discontinued as Americans migrate to light trucks.
What does Lexus F stand for?
flagship and Fuji Speedway
The Lexus F and F-Sport marque is the high-performance division of cars produced by Lexus. The F is short for flagship and Fuji Speedway, the chief test site of Lexus performance vehicle development in Oyama, Suntō District, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan.
Is the Lexus RC F fast?
What is the Lexus RC F top speed? The Lexus RC F has a top speed of 168 MPH available.
What is the difference between the Lexus RC and RC F?
In comparing the Lexus RC 350's and the Lexus RC F's specifications and ratings, the Lexus RC 350 has the advantage in the areas of new vehicle base pricing, fuel efficiency and interior volume. The Lexus RC F has the advantage in the areas of reliability, resale value, overall quality score and base engine power.
What is the difference between RC and RC F?
In comparing the Lexus RC 350's and the Lexus RC F's specifications and ratings, the Lexus RC 350 has the advantage in the areas of new vehicle base pricing, fuel efficiency and interior volume. The Lexus RC F has the advantage in the areas of reliability, resale value, overall quality score and base engine power.
