2020 Lexus RC F Review

While most of Lexus' lineup is less Nürburgring and more suburban ring road, that doesn't mean the company can't make a sports car. Take the 2020 Lexus RC F, for example. Based on the relatively street-friendly RC coupe, the RC F dials it up with more power, an exhilarating soundtrack, a stiffer suspension and a more chiseled look.

For most drivers, it's the non-turbocharged V8 that'll be the biggest draw. Compared to last year's model, it produces a little more power and torque — now 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque thanks to small changes to the intake and programming. A slightly shorter final drive ratio (from last year's 2.97:1 to this year's 3.13:1) also increases the feeling of acceleration.

Equally as important as the increase in power is the decrease in weight. Changes to numerous components, such as a lightened intake manifold, a smaller air-conditioning compressor,  aluminum suspension parts in place of steel parts, composite rear bumper support, and hollow axles, all help decrease the RC F's weight by a reported 55 pounds, to 3,902 pounds.

If you're looking for a more aggressive experience, the limited-production RC F Track Edition further reduces weight thanks to a judicious use of carbon fiber, carbon-ceramic brake rotors, lightweight 19-inch wheels and a titanium exhaust. Visually, the Track Edition is equipped with a much more prominent rear wing as well as a subtle front splitter to draw air away from the underside of the body.

The RC F is indeed more appealing as a daily driver rather than a track toy. Even with its improvements this year, the RC F's performance isn't as exciting as what you can get from other performance coupes such as the BMW M4, the Chevrolet Corvette and the Ford Shelby GT350. But if you're mostly interested in a mix of street-friendly comfort and performance, the 2020 RC F should satisfy.

What's it like to live with the RC F?

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 clunky and distracting to use.

The 2020 Lexus RC F differs from our long-term RC F in that it receives a slight power bump, tweaks to its suspension, and a weight reduction of about 55 pounds. It's the same generation, though, so most of our observations still apply. Read our long-term RC F test to learn more about everything from seat comfort to real-world fuel economy.