It's an era in which many new models have been put on strict diets, often shedding hundreds of pounds in the process. But the 2018 Lexus RC F is not one of them.
In fact, its extra weight, relative to that of other performance-oriented coupe competitors, is one of its major downsides. The good news is that for those who like the RC F's good looks and sporty demeanor, the extra poundage will largely be a nonissue.
That's because the RC F still offers strong acceleration and sharp handling, even if both fall well short of class-leading. The 467-horsepower V8 engine provides plenty of thrust: Zero to 60 mph takes just 4.6 seconds, and it has a great exhaust note to go with it. The transmission's quick upshifts are admirable, though downshifts can be jerky at times.
Quick steering is a plus, though its precision is a tad lacking, and the car's extra weight makes understeer a common problem, especially when you push hard. Strong, easily modulated brakes are a definite plus, though they tend to show some signs of fade under the most extreme use. In short, the RC F is exciting to look at and drive around town. It's less so if you're looking for the most finely tuned performance machine.
Inside the RC F, you'll find outstanding materials and a handsome design. The front seats are extremely comfortable (if you fit in them) and make a fine place to enjoy the RC F's engaging driving dynamics. Add the available 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system, and you have a good excuse for taking the long way home.
Lexus offers the RC F in a single trim level. There are a handful of option packages, of course. We can recommend the Premium package, which is filled with LED headlights, automatic wipers, heated and ventilated seats, parking sensors and rear cross-traffic alert. The Performance package might sound appealing, but honestly it doesn't offer enough of what's advertised to warrant its extra cost.
There are other quibbles as well. The handling is hampered by all that weight, and some buyers could find the lack of a manual transmission disappointing. The rear seats are really seats in name only, offering so little room they should be considered more of a spacious package shelf for purses or gym bags. Finally, and perhaps most damningly, the Remote Touch tech interface you'll find on most RC Fs is distracting and downright infuriating to use.
All things considered, however, the 2018 Lexus RC F makes a fine and handsome sport coupe, even if its extra pounds prevent it from being the driving machine you might expect. Let Edmunds help you find the one that's right for you.
2018 Lexus RC F Overview
The 2018 Lexus RC F is offered in the following submodels: Coupe. Available styles include 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 8A). RC F models are available with a 0-liter gas engine, with output up to 0 hp, depending on engine type. The 2018 RC F comes with rear wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic. The 2018 RC F comes with a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. basic warranty, a 4 yr./ unlimited mi. roadside warranty, and a 6 yr./ 70000 mi. powertrain warranty.
Is the 2018 Lexus RC F a good car? Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Lexus RC F and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 RC F featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
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