Which is better, Lexus RC or IS?

For most buyers, the Lexus IS offers stronger everyday practicality and up-to-date tech, while the RC delivers sportier styling and more engaging driving dynamics as a two-door coupe. In short: the IS is the better all-rounder for daily use, while the RC appeals to enthusiasts who want a sportier silhouette and sharper handling.

To compare them properly, this article examines performance, design and practicality, interior technology, and ownership costs, with notes on how trims and drivetrains vary by model year.

Performance and driving experience

Lexus RC: sport coupe character

The RC lineup centers on two doors, with a focus on sportier handling and a linked chassis setup. Engine options typically include a turbocharged four-cylinder and a series of V6 variants, culminating in the high-performance RC F for maximum speed and track-ready capability. Drivetrain choices commonly include rear-wheel drive as the default, with all-wheel drive available on select trims. The result is a cockpit that rewards cornering and driver engagement, with a growling soundtrack from the V8 in the most extreme versions.

Lexus IS: refined sedan dynamics

The IS prioritizes a smooth, comfortable ride and more usable interior space, especially in the rear seats and trunk. Engine choices follow a similar pattern to the RC—entry-level turbocharged four-cylinders and a paired V6 on higher trims—with a focus on balanced acceleration and everyday usability. The IS generally feels more composed in daily driving and offers solid performance across a wider range of speeds, with sport-oriented variants providing extra stiffness and sharper steering tuning.

Key performance figures by model (rough, typical values):

• RC 300 (2.0L turbo): about 241 hp; AWD available; 0-60 in the mid-to-high 6-second range


• RC 350 (3.5L V6): about 311 hp; AWD available; 0-60 around 5.5–5.7 seconds


• RC F (5.0L V8): 472 hp; rear‑wheel drive; 0-60 around 4.3–4.5 seconds


• IS 300 (2.0L turbo): about 241 hp; AWD available; 0-60 in the mid-to-high 6-second range


• IS 350 (3.5L V6): about 311 hp; AWD available; 0-60 around 5.5–5.7 seconds


• IS 500 (5.0L V8): 472 hp; RWD; 0-60 around 4.5 seconds

In summary, the fastest acceleration and the most aggressive handling come from the RC F and IS 500, while the RC 350 and IS 350 offer brisk performance with a strong sense of daily drivability.

Interior, comfort and technology

Cabin design and practicality

The IS emphasizes a more spacious, practical sedan interior with relatively generous rear-seat room and cargo space for the segment. The RC offers a cockpit that’s highly engaging but more limited in rear passenger space and trunk volume due to its coupe configuration. Both cars use high-quality materials, with premium seating options and a focus on quiet, refined highway cruising.

Infotainment and driver assistance

Both models share modern Lexus tech, including smartphone compatibility and advanced driver-assistance features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on recent trims, and Lexus Safety System+ (with adaptive cruise, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision tech) is typically included or available on higher trims. Audio options range from standard premium setups to more expansive, high-fidelity systems on premium packages, with navigation and other luxury features offered on select configurations.

Before considering technology and interior space, buyers should weigh whether a four-door sedan or a two-door coupe aligns with their day-to-day needs and seating requirements.

Overall, the IS tends to win on practicality and everyday usability, while the RC delivers a more dramatic, driver-focused cabin experience.

Value, reliability and ownership costs

Pricing, trims and depreciation

Pricing varies by market and model year, but generally the IS is positioned as the more accessible option in terms of entry price, with strong resale value due to Lexus’ reliability. The RC, particularly in sportier trims and high-performance variants, carries a higher sticker price but offers a distinct styling statement and a more specialized driving experience. Depreciation for sportier RC models can be steeper if demand for coupes softens, while the IS tends to hold value well as a practical luxury sedan.

Maintenance, warranty and reliability

Lexus is known for strong reliability and long-term value, which helps keep ownership costs reasonable relative to some rivals. Maintenance and warranty terms are generally favorable, with prepaid service plans and extended warranties available in many regions. Because the RC and IS share many components under the Toyota luxury umbrella, maintenance expectations are similar, though high-performance variants may incur higher maintenance costs due to specialized parts and tires.

Before investing, consider total cost of ownership over five years, including insurance, fuel, maintenance, and potential replacement of tires and brakes on sport-tuned versions.

In short, if you want a more affordable, efficient daily driver with lasting value, the IS is typically the smarter choice. If you’re chasing a unique, performance-oriented coupe with a bold presence, the RC line offers that slice of Lexus sportiness at a premium.

Bottom line and recommendations

Which is better depends on how you use the car. If daily practicality, interior tech, and all-around comfort are your priorities, the IS is the stronger pick. If your heart leans toward a striking two-door silhouette, sharper handling, and compelling V8 performance in higher trims, the RC is the more exciting option.

Summary: The Lexus IS is generally the smarter, more versatile choice for most buyers, while the Lexus RC serves enthusiasts who want sportier styling and more spirited driving dynamics. Both offer Lexus reliability, premium interiors, and solid value in their respective niches. A proper test drive of both, with attention to seating comfort, trunk space, and how each feels in corners, is the best way to decide.

Is the RC faster than the is?

Is the Lexus RC or Lexus IS faster? While both Lexus cars can deliver impeccable 0-60 times, the Lexus IS is slightly faster than the Lexus RC with the Lexus IS 500 F SPORT Performance and IS 500 F SPORT Performance Premium offering a 0-60 time of 4.4 seconds.

Why is Lexus discontinuing the RC?

The market for sports cars isn't as strong as it once was, which has forced some automakers to reconsider their performance-oriented coupes. After 10 years since its official launch, the Lexus RC is being discontinued.

Is Lexus RC bigger than is?

The RC has a shorter wheelbase than the Lexus IS (XE30) though it is longer overall. The platform shares the front end of the Lexus GS (L10), midsection from the Lexus IS (XE20) convertible, while the rear componentry is from the XE30 series IS.

What is the difference between Lexus RC 350 and IS 350?

The main difference is that the Lexus RC 350 is a two-door coupe while the IS 350 is a four-door sedan. While both models share the same powerful engine, the IS 350 is more practical with more passenger and cargo space, whereas the RC 350 is more style-oriented, has a slightly higher price tag, and has more valuable resale potential.
 
This video compares the Lexus RC 350 and IS 350, highlighting their design differences: 1mBen HardyYouTube · Mar 1, 2020
Practicality and space

• IS 350: More practical due to four doors and greater interior space, especially for rear passengers and cargo.
• RC 350: More limited in rear passenger and cargo space, making it less suitable for families or those who frequently carry multiple people. 

Performance and driving

• Both models: Share the same 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 311 horsepower. 
• IS 350: May have a slight edge in acceleration and is often considered the better all-around daily driver. 
• RC 350: Is often described as more of a comfortable cruiser with a sportier look, but some users note it doesn't feel as sporty on the track as its name suggests. 

Style and features

• IS 350: Has a modern, sharper sedan design. 
• RC 350: Features a sportier coupe design and is considered more of a head-turner. 
• Infotainment: The IS 350 has a touchscreen infotainment system that the RC 350 lacks, which can be a significant difference for some drivers. 

Price and value

• IS 350: Has a lower starting price compared to the RC 350. 
• RC 350: Has better long-term resale value, retaining a higher percentage of its original value over time. 

You can watch this video to see the interior of both the Lexus RC 350 and IS 350: 1mSerg Car ReviewsYouTube · May 22, 2022
Which one is right for you?

• Choose the IS 350 if you prioritize practicality, need more passenger and cargo space, and want a more affordable daily driver with better resale value. 
• Choose the RC 350 if you prefer the style of a two-door coupe, don't frequently use the rear seats, and are willing to pay more for a car with a higher resale value.