What Is the 2021 Lexus RC?
The Lexus RC is a luxury sports coupe that seats four. There are three engine choices: The rear-wheel-drive RC 300 uses a 241-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, while the all-wheel-drive RC 300 is powered by a 260-hp, 3.5-liter V-6. Rear- and all-wheel-drive versions of the RC 350, meanwhile, get a 311-hp, 3.5-liter V-6. Rear-wheel-drive versions use an eight-speed automatic transmission, while all-wheel-drive models have a six-speed automatic. The RC competes with the Audi A5 and BMW 4 Series.
Lexus also sells the high-performance rear-wheel-drive RC F, which is powered by a 472-hp, 5.0-liter V-8 that works with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
What’s New on the 2021 Lexus RC?
Blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert is now standard. A new Black Line Special Edition based on the F Sport trim features triple-beam LED headlights, 19-inch black-chrome wheels, darkened exhaust tips, a black interior with silver-colored stitching, ash wood trim and a two-piece Zero Halliburton luggage set. Just 350 will be produced.
Rarer still is the new RC F Fuji Speedway Edition that’s limited to 60 units. It features Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, a titanium exhaust system, carbon fiber aerodynamic elements and red leather-trimmed seats with Alcantara simulated-suede trim. A limited-production MSTR watch with design cues inspired by the car is also included.
What Features in the 2021 Lexus RC Are Most Important?
Standard features include:
- LED headlights and taillights
- Push-button start
- Dual-zone air conditioning
- Power-adjustable front seats
- 60/40-split, folding backseat
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity
- Forward collision warning
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning with steering assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic high-beam headlights
Available features include:
- Power moonroof
- Heated steering wheel
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Navigation
- Mark Levinson premium audio
Should I Buy the 2021 Lexus RC?
Good visibility and a roomy front cabin are highlights of the RC, but like a lot of coupes, the backseat is snug. We’re also not fans of Lexus’ touchpad-based multimedia interface.
