2018 Lexus RC F Review

Name: 2018 Lexus RC F Review
Brand: Lexus
Price: 32423 USD

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Edmunds' Expert Review

byJames Riswick^{Edmunds Contributor
James Riswick is an automotive journalist at Edmunds.}

Pros

High-quality cabin looks great
Refined and powerful V8 with a soundtrack to match
Safety and driving aids come standard
Hefty weight hampers virtually every dynamic element

Cons

Remote Touch tech interface is distracting to use
Competitors are quicker and sharper to drive
No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto

What’s new

There are a variety of technology upgrades for 2018. The optional navigation system now comes with a larger 10.3-inch screen. The Lexus Safety System+ package is now standard, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise control.

Vehicle overview

As high-performance coupes go, the 2018 Lexus RC F is not among the best. The main issue with the Lexus RC F is its hefty curb weight: It's hundreds of pounds heavier than its competitors, which keeps it from being as energetic or agile. It just doesn't feel like the performance machine you might expect from its looks and the sweet-sounding 5.0-liter V8 firing away behind that Lexus grille.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2018 Lexus RC F 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.31 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio

$269/mo

$176/mo

Avg. Midsize Car

Calculate my fuel costs

But if all you want is a boldly styled luxury coupe with a big V8 engine, the RC F could be pretty appealing. That's especially true this year since it now comes with an adaptive suspension that should provide a smoother ride quality than previous RC Fs. Ultimately, though, there are a lot of excellent ways to spend your money at this price point, and no matter how you view it, the RC F remains an imperfect choice.

What's it like to live with?

Edmunds' editorial team acquired and lived with a 2015 Lexus RC F for six months, logging over 10,000 miles. We fell in love with the RC F's powerfully smooth V8 engine and attractive cabin but found its infotainment system frustrating to use. The 2018 Lexus RC F differs from our long-term 2015 RC F in that Lexus updated the suspension to give the car a smoother ride. It's the same generation, though, so most of our observations still apply. Read our long-term RC F test to learn more.

Edmunds' Expert Rating

6.6 / 10

The 2018 Lexus RC F struggles to keep up with other high-performance coupe rivals. It's just not as energetic or as agile. But if all you want is a boldly styled luxury coupe with a big V8 engine, the RC F is pretty satisfying.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions, although trim levels share many aspects. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2015 Lexus RC F (5.0L V8 | 8-speed automatic | RWD).

NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current Lexus RC F has received the notable addition of adaptive suspension dampers. Although our original findings about ride and handling have been revised, the rest remain broadly applicable.

Scorecard

Overall	6.6 / 10
Driving	7.0
Comfort	8.0
Interior	7.0
Utility	5.5
Technology	5.0

Driving

7.0

The numbers on the track don't match the way this car feels on the street. The RC F is some 500 pounds heavier than a BMW M4 and drives the part, so its 467-horsepower V8 is blunted to some extent. The transmission is slow to downshift, and the engine needs revs to thrive. Excellent brakes, though.

Acceleration

7.5

No launch control and a system that penalizes brake-throttle overlap make launches tricky. Zero to 60 mph takes 4.6 seconds. Upshifts are fast if you've selected the right mode. Otherwise, acceleration is less aggressive, but it still sounds good. Low-end thrust trails that of turbocharged rivals.

Braking

7.5

We experienced no fade during testing (the shortest stop from 60 mph was 110 feet) and found the firm pedal easy to modulate on both the track and the street. Very good.

Steering

7.0

The quick-quick-quick steering takes some getting used to. On the street, we were never quite sure how much input would be required for certain corners and were constantly readjusting.

Handling

6.5

On the track, the RC F nearly matches the BMW M4, but on the road, the heavyweight RC F suffers from understeer at virtually any speed, and its chassis is upset by imperfections. Competitors are more capable and rewarding.

Drivability

7.5

In its sportiest mode, the RC F's eight-speed automatic upshifts quickly but suffers from erratic downshift speeds and rev-matching. Sometimes it matches revs; sometimes it simply slams the next gear down as the car lurches in response.

Comfort

8.0

We haven't yet tested an updated RC F with its new adaptive suspension, so we can't assess whether the poor ride has been corrected. The seats are still exceptionally comfortable, and the cabin stays quiet at highway speeds.

Seat comfort

8.0

The RC F's seats are extremely comfortable if they fit you. The fixed bolsters are tight, the lumbar adjustment is only two-way, and there's no adjustable thigh support. There's lots of room for tall drivers, but lateral space is less generous.

Noise & vibration

8.0

One of the traditional Lexuslike bits of the RC F is its quietness. With the exception of the rowdy exhaust note on throttle and some sticky-tire-related road noise (expected for this class), everything's calm and collected on the inside.

Interior

7.0

Design and materials are excellent, perhaps class-leading. Usability is poor, however, as is visibility. Space for passengers and their items is merely OK.

Ease of use

5.0

The RC F is an ergonomic disaster, with only semiresponsive touch-sensitive temp sliders and the infuriating Remote Touch touchpad controller. (Thank goodness it's optional.) Simple tasks become distracting and frustrating.

Getting in/getting out

6.5

Coupes tend to have unwieldy doors, and this one is no exception. It's thoughtful that the front seats automatically slide forward to afford rear-seat access, but they are infuriatingly slow and threaten rear passengers' shins and feet upon return. The fixed side bolsters don't help.

Driving position

8.0

Though the sport seats lack adjustability relative to other cars in this price range, it is nevertheless easy to find a comfortable driving position in the RC F — even for taller drivers. The tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel is power-adjustable.

Roominess

7.0

The RC F provides above-average front room if you're narrow-bodied or have narrow feet. The rear seats are the least roomy in the segment. The cabin feels tight, not airy. We'd avoid the optional sunroof — it reduces headroom and further increases weight.

Visibility

7.5

Visibility is challenging, especially with the rear blind spots. A rearview camera is standard. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and front and rear parking sensors are optional.

Quality

8.5

Take performance out of the equation and this feels like a $70,000 car. Beautiful materials, excellent workmanship. It feels solid and refined.

Utility

5.5

Practicality takes a hit with the smallish trunk, limited cabin storage options and a fixed-in-place rear seatback.

Small-item storage

5.0

It lacks cubbies and nooks and has shallow bucket cupholders, a small center bin, narrow and hard-to-access door pockets, and only an adequate glovebox. Even among sport coupes, the RC is poor in this regard.

Cargo space

6.0

The 10.4-cubic-foot trunk is typical for a coupe. The RC F loses the 60/40-split folding back seat of its lesser RC stablemates and gets a small center pass-through instead.

Technology

5.0

This cabin is behind the times when it comes to infotainment. The control interface is awkward and the native voice controls are subpar. There's no Apple Carplay or Android Auto functionality, and the screen graphics look old. But there is a nice suite of driver aids as standard equipment.

Audio & navigation

6.5

The Remote Touch interface is infuriatingly bad. The target icons are easy to overshoot with the touchpad, requiring a lot of glance time. Even the screen graphics are dated. It's technically optional and the standard Display Audio is better, but most models on dealer lots have Remote Touch.

Smartphone integration

5.0

Bluetooth pairing is intuitive and easy, and there's a USB outlet, auxiliary jack and accessory power. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not available. Instead, the RC F includes Siri Eyes Free.

Driver aids

5.5

There's a standard comprehensive suite of driver aids (lane keeping, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and high beams) in a segment where they're usually optional. Blind-spot and rear cross-traffic alerts are still optional.

2018 Lexus RC F models

The 2018 Lexus RC F is the high-performance version of the Lexus RC coupe, which we review separately. Specific F version upgrades include a 5.0-liter V8 engine (467 horsepower, 389 pound-feet of torque), a specially tuned eight-speed automatic transmission, a limited-slip differential, adaptive variable suspension, Brembo upgrade brakes, and 19-inch forged alloy wheels. The RC F also gets special styling and sport seats. There is a single trim level that can be upgraded with a choice of several packages and stand-alone optional upgrades.

Standard equipment includes LED headlights, automatic high beams, auto-dimming mirrors, adjustable drive modes, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, a rearview camera, power-adjustable front seats with memory settings, simulated leather upholstery and a power-adjustable steering wheel.

Also standard are Safety Connect emergency communications (automatic collision notification, emergency assist button, stolen-vehicle locator), Lexus Enform Remote services (smartphone-based remote vehicle controls), the Lexus Display Audio tech interface (7-inch screen, knob controller), Scout GPS Link smartphone-based navigation system, a USB port, and a 10-speaker sound system that includes a CD player and HD and satellite radios.

The Premium package adds a speed-activated rear spoiler, blind-spot monitoring and rear-cross traffic alert systems, automatic wipers, water-repellent side windows, parking sensors, heated and ventilated front seats, and carbon-fiber interior trim. The Performance package adds a rear torque-vectoring differential, a carbon-fiber roof and a carbon-fiber rear spoiler. The All-Weather package adds a windshield deicer, headlight washers and a heated steering wheel. The navigation system comes bundled with the Remote Touch interface (10.3-inch screen, touchpad controller), two USB ports, voice controls and a suite of infotainment apps. You can also add to that a 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system and six-CD/DVD changer.

Stand-alone options include upgraded LED headlights, parking sensors, a sunroof and leather upholstery.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2018 Lexus RC F.

5 (86%)

4 (14%)

3 (0%)

2 (0%)

1 (0%)

4.9

21 reviews

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Most helpful consumer reviews

The RC-F Has Alot Going For It.

Ron Palick, 03/24/2016

2015 Lexus RC F 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 8A)

Ok, so let me say there are a lot of choices in this type of car category, however, if you are looking for something that has "Snap your Head Back performance', excellent build quality, and an interior that reflects an attention to detail , this is going to be a car you should take a close look at. Better yet, take it for a drive, you will be suitably impressed. Before purchasing this … car, I owned my first Lexus, an RC 350 F Sport, a nice car no doubt. However, while the RC -350 is nice, the six cylinder just did not do it for me. I looked at the M4 and then Came back to Look at the RC-F. Yes, the M-4 is a nice car and has a lot going for it , however, so did the RC-F. While the RC-F is heavier, there were four things which won the day. The first is the V-8. When you fire this up in the morning you know you are riding a rocket as this baby really rumbles to life. The second thing that is really attractive, is the over all design and lines to this vehicle. I see all kinds of BMW's and the body shape and size all looks very similar, not the RC-F, this has a very distinctive look to it. Third, is the interior and seating. The attention to detail in this interior is flawless, something I think Lexus has dialed in. Finally let me say the overall performance of this car is truly breath taking. Dial; this in to Sport + mode and its ready to rip. Now I will never take this on a track, but lets just say when you put your foot into it, the rocket ship takes off. Are there faster cars out there. Yes, no doubt and while you could look at any one thing and say its no big deal, I think when you put them all together they made a compelling reason for me to purchase the RC-F. Okay, as with all things there are some things I don't like, or, feel they could be drastically improved on. The first is the Navi Screen. I would like to see a bigger one . The M-4's Navi looked nicer. The other thing I would like to see improved is a faster shifting transmission. No doubt when you are in Sport plus mode this does does shift faster, however in my opinion it could be improved upon, nevertheless to me this was not a deal breaker. I think at the end of the day the RC-F delivers performance and quality. for me, whats not to like? Up-Date: 11/2017 Let me just make a brief update. I have had this car for just about two years. First let me say, I have had Zero Problems mechanically with this car. Taking it on long distance trips I have gotten 28 miles to the gallon. Do not miss understand , I did not buy this car for the mileage aspect, however, if you keep your foot out of it, the mileage can be very respectable. The hard part is keeping your foot off the accelerator. Let me also mention, Lexus did a software up date on the Transmission last year. It now shifts faster and is better at anticipating how you drive. Let's be clear, its not a dual clutch tranny so don't expect that, nevertheless, its still a thrill ride. Okay, so let me sum this update up. I like this car a lot and would not hesitate to buy another one. I am not a gran Prix driver, but like the acceleration and fine handling characteristics. This is a fun car to own and drive with zero, or minimal problems.

2016 RCF - reliable, comfortable, qualilty, V8

Steve Kreiser, 06/09/2017

2016 Lexus RC F 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 8A)

Back seat is small. We don't use it much. I traded in a 911 Turbo. RCF not as visceral, but more comfortable, significantly higher quality, and absolutely no problems. Porsche had lots of niggling problems; Porsche service was PIA - waited over a week for service on multiple occasions. This is our 9th Lexus, the cars never break/give problems. The car is chunky though - 3958 lbs. …

RC F--Exceptional Balance of Luxury and Performanc

MP, 09/15/2015

2015 Lexus RC F 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 8A)

Are you looking for a masterpiece V8 in a singular design with exceptional handling, acceleration, and curb appeal? This is my second F, the first being the IS F. This is a world-class machine with exceptional handling and performance. The car will run head-to-head with the M4 and defeat the RS5. If you are looking for a car that will run 4.3 0-60 mph runs all day and climb to 176 mph …

1 year of RC-F ownership - it's amazing!

UltrasonicinCentennial, 10/30/2016

2015 Lexus RC F 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 8A)

I've owned my RC-F for about a year now and I've tracked it a few times and it's also my daily driver. First, daily driving impressions: When you start it up cold, it sounds like you would expect a muscle car V8 to sound. AMAZING. Not like "annoy your neighbors" loud, but just right. If this car does not put a smile on your face when you start it, you're already dead and can't …

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2018 Lexus RC F, so we've included reviews for other years of the RC F since its last redesign.

See all 21 reviews of the Lexus RC F

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2018 Lexus RC F video

2018 Lexus RC F Review

Edmunds Senior Writer Carlos Lago tests and reviews the 2018 Lexus RC F. Because this luxury performance-oriented coupe has been around for some time now, we already know that it's heavier than its competition and not as quick around a racetrack. But does that matter? To find out, we…

2018 RC F Highlights

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$64,650
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	19 MPG
Cost to Drive	$269/month
Seating	4 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	10.1 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the RC F models:

Pre-Collision System: Warns the driver of a possible impact with other cars or pedestrians. Can automatically apply the brakes if necessary.
Lane Departure Alert with Keeping Assist: Warns you when drifting out of your lane and intervenes with steering input if needed.
Safety Connect: Includes automatic collision notification, an emergency assist button and stolen-vehicle location services.

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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2018 Lexus RC F Review

Edmunds' Expert Review

Pros

Cons

What’s new

Vehicle overview

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 Lexus RC F 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.31 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.

What's it like to live with?

Edmunds' Expert Rating

Trim tested

Scorecard

Driving

Acceleration

Braking

Steering

Handling

Drivability

Comfort

Seat comfort

Noise & vibration

Interior

Ease of use

Getting in/getting out

Driving position

Roominess

Visibility

Quality

Utility

Small-item storage

Cargo space

Technology

Audio & navigation

Smartphone integration

Driver aids

Which RC F does Edmunds recommend?

2018 Lexus RC F models

Most helpful consumer reviews

The RC-F Has Alot Going For It.

2016 RCF - reliable, comfortable, qualilty, V8

RC F--Exceptional Balance of Luxury and Performanc

1 year of RC-F ownership - it's amazing!

2018 Lexus RC F video