2022 Lexus RC F Review: Naturally Aspirated Screamer
In the dwindling two-door coupe segment, the Lexus RC F is at least an interesting alternative. Instead of going the now widely accepted turbocharged route, this Lexus relies on an old-fashioned 5.0-liter naturally-aspirated V8 engine delivering 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. Since it doesn't have forced induction to help it along, it lags slightly behind the BMW M4 Competition when it comes to straight-line speed, but it has loads of character and comes packed with a long list of standard luxury features. The RC F is more of a grand tourer than a fiercely sporty, precise coupe, but we think it's all the better for it.
What's the Price of the 2022 Lexus RC F?
The price of the Lexus RC F begins at $65,870. At that price, it undercuts its main rivals, but not by a significant chunk. Considering the tiny increase in performance, we're not entirely convinced that the Fuji Speedway Edition is worth its staggering sticker price of $101,095, and that's before the $595 charge for the Electric Surge paint that you have no choice in speccing. That takes it out of BMW M4 territory and means it's actually pricier than a base Porsche 911 Carrera. These prices exclude the destination charge of $1,075 in the USA.
2022 RC F Exterior
Dimensions
Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
185.4 in | 107.5 in | 54.7 in | 72.6 in | 61.2 in | 61.4 in | 3,902.0 lbs |
2022 RC F Performance
Handling and Driving Impressions
Lexus sells the RC F with an optional Carbon Package. It consists of several carbon fiber bits, including the roof. The coupe also gets Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tires as standard. To be honest, the RC F needs way more than a few lightweight bits and racy tires.
The suspension setup is variable, but it remains compliant and composed even in the firmest setting. We quite like the neutral handling and steering feel. You can easily induce power oversteer, but the default setting is understeer, especially with those sticky Michelin tires. Since this is more of a road than a track car, it makes complete sense. The Lexus is at its best when you treat it like a grand tourer. It handles bumps with ease and the grunt is more than enough to get past slower moving traffic. Thanks to those superb seats in the front row, long journeys are an absolute joy. This means it's not as engaging or frantic as some other RWD sports cars, however. While it offers a semi-engaging driving experience, it's the kind of car you're more likely to enjoy on a spirited jaunt through the countryside. There are better cars suited to track work but the Lexus is a unique proposition in this segment.
2022 RC F Interior
2022 RC F Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance | Maintenance |
---|---|---|---|---|
4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 6 Years / 70,000 Miles | 6 Years / Unlimited Miles | 4 Years / Unlimited Miles | 0.5 Years / 5,000 Miles |
Verdict: Is the 2022 Lexus RC F A Good car?
Up until recently, we would have easily recommended the RC F to anyone looking for a comfortable grand tourer with a large engine. While it may not be as dynamic as a BMW M4 or an Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, there are certain driving conditions in which it absolutely shines. We love how you can just sit back, relax and enjoy the thunderous soundtrack provided by the naturally aspirated V8. It's the perfect car for the discerning gentleman who has grown past the boy racer phase.
But now there is competition from within Lexus's own ranks. The recently launched IS 500 F Sport may not be a true full-fat Lexus F model, but it uses the same 5.0L V8 engine and looks even better than the RC F. It's also considerably cheaper if you go for the base model, while the top-spec IS F Sport Premium retails for around the same amount as the RC F. The IS 500 also has four doors and a touchscreen interface. It is basically a better, more practical version of the RC F, and we'd rather pay less for more.
What Lexus RC F Sport Coupe Should I Buy?
Priced at over $100k, the Fuji Speedway Edition is horribly overpriced. Yes, it comes with some carbon fiber trinkets, Alcantara trim, and exclusivity, but the competition is extremely stiff in that price range. You can get a base Porsche 911 Carrera, for example.
The standard RC F makes a lot more sense. You need to accept that the RC F is not a track weapon, but rather a grand tourer. There aren't many of those left in this price bracket. Sure, you could get a Mustang or Charger for a lot cheaper, but neither offers the same premium, serene experience as the Lexus. Still, we maintain the IS 500 F Performance sedan is an even better buy.
2022 Lexus RC F Comparisons
2022 Lexus RC F vs BMW M4 Coupe
The standard RC F competes directly with the new BMW M4, which is problematic. Lexus failed against the old M4, so how does it stack up against the new model? Well, the new M4 is more driver-focused and is available with a manual gearbox. Few people are likely to go for that option, however. A more likely rival is the M4 Competition, which can sprint to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of 180 mph in RWD guise. The BMW M4 Competition costs nearly $10,000 more than the RC F, but the new technology is mind-boggling. BMW has a new launch control system that consistently posts times that match the claimed figures. You also get a drift meter that awards you a rating out of five stars. It may be gimmicky, but since this segment is supposed to be about fun, we'll give it a stamp of approval. The new M4 is undoubtedly worth the additional $10,000. It's the latest performance coupe to come out of Germany, which usually means it's the best.
2022 Lexus RC F vs Lexus LC Coupe
Lexus charges $101,095 for the RC F Fuji Speedway Edition. We can't help but think that the money would be better spent on the $93,050 LC 500 Coupe. Sure, the RC F is faster, but the LC 500 is not exactly a slouch. It has the same 5.0-liter engine that can help it get it to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The RC F is a slightly wieldier car, thanks to its tinier dimensions. It's also more practical, not that it matters much in this segment. While there are similarities between these two cars, it's worth remembering that the LC is punted as a grand tourer. That means it's more comfort and luxury biased than the track-focused Fuji Speedway Edition. Still, if you're looking for a track car, you can do much better than this particular special edition of the RC F. Our money would be spent on the gorgeously trimmed LC 500 instead.