2023 Lexus RC Review

The Lexus RC competes in one of the toughest weight divisions of the automotive industry – the compact premium car category.

Yet, it has always held its own against more established rivals thanks to its driveability, comfort, technology, reliability, and build quality.

Now, its latest model, the 2023 Lexus RC, is out and about. The following is a review of its highlights:

Features

The RC coupe is currently in its first generation that received a facelift in 2018. The RC 2023 comes with three powertrain options and four trim levels to choose from.

This year’s model features a new infotainment system and some updates to the list of appearance-based optional extras.

Powertrain and Numbers

The Lexus RC300 2023 comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that churns out 241 horsepower and 258 pound-feet. Rear-wheel drive is standard – plus an eight-speed automatic.

There’s also a 3.5-liter V6 engine offered on the all-wheel drive version that makes 260 horses and 236 torques. It comes with a six-speed automatic gearbox.

We then move on to the RC350 which features a more powerful V6 that produces 311 horsepower and 280 torque.

Car and Driver described it as “velvety smooth with linear power delivery,”.

This one is available with both the aforementioned drivetrains.

The fastest RC model can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.6 seconds. If you want something even quicker, the 2023 Lexus RC F should do the trick in just 4 seconds.

So, how does this class do according to the EPA then? Well, the most efficient Lexus RC 2023 is the one with the turbo as it does up to 21 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

It is followed by the RWD 2023 RC350 which does 20 mpg in the city and 28 on the highway.

Opting for AWD on the 2023 RC300 gets you 20 mpg city and 28 highway, while an AWD RC350 should give you 19 mpg city; 26 highway.

Interior and Technology

Cabin
You get an interior that oozes style and is built from high-end materials. Kelly Blue Book stated that the Build quality in the 2023 RC coupe is of the usual Lexus high quality.”

The available interior upholstery colors are Black, White, Black and Yellow, and Circuit Red NuLuxe.

Edmunds described it as a “solidly constructed and upscale cabin”.

Despite this being a coupe, it is still a roomy vehicle that can seat up to four occupants.

Car and Driver stated that the “RC’s well-made interior is stylish, comfortable, and spacious,”.

Storage
The trunk space is decent at 10.4 cubic feet and the rear seats allow you to store longer items.

Edmunds stated that “the trunk opening is wide, and the trunk floor is deep and flat,” and that these characteristics make it “more usable.”

Amenities
2023 RC300
The entry-level Lexus RC 2023 offers beautiful Linear Espresso and Linear Dark Mocha wood trims, plus NuLuxe-trimmed seats, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob.

The tech includes dual-zone climate control, push-button ignition, keyless entry, and a digital instrumentation screen.

You also get 10- and 8-way power-adjustable driver and front-passenger seats respectively.

There’s an 8-inch touchscreen that pairs with ten speakers and offers wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It also has capabilities for Google, Alexa, SiriusXM, and wifi hotspot.

The safety equipment includes forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist and lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

There’s also a backup camera and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

2023 RC350
This model upgrades the powertrain, and adds heated front seats if you opt for all-wheel drive.

2023 RC300 F Sport
This high-performance-oriented model equips the RC with a Dark Gray Streamline trim and aluminum pedals.

You also get unique F SPORT accessories such as perforated leather–trimmed shift knob and steering wheel, front seats with enhanced bolsters, and a black headliner.

The RC300 F Sport also comes with heated and ventilated front seats, with the driver receiving memory settings.

2023 RC350 F Sport
This is the same as above on the inside but it has an upgraded powertrain.

2023 RC 300

2023 RC 350

2023 RC 300 F Sport

Exterior and Driving

Looks
The Lexus RC 2023 shares its good looks with the four-door 2023 Lexus IS, but is offered in a two-door version. All models come with Bi-LED headlamps with DRLs and LED taillamps.

The non-F Sport models all feature a bright metallic front grille with chrome trim and 18-inch silver metallic alloy wheels.

Meanwhile, the F Sport variants feature a more unique and aggressive-looking F SPORT front fascia and mesh front grille with smoked chrome trim.

They also come with 19-inch gloss black wheels and rain-sensing wipers.

The available exterior colors on the 2023 Lexus RC are Atomic Silver, Caviar, Eminent White Pearl, Grecian Blue, and Obsidian.

Drive
The RC 2023 should be really nice to drive no matter what your driving habits are. The engine options provide a smooth flow of power and the car feels really composed.

KBB stated that it has “fairly responsive handling, and it feels assured on the road,”

It is also a very comfy and quiet car to drive. Motor Trend praised the superb driving experience, calling it a “mini ground tourer that provides a sensible balance of sport and comfort.”

Reliability and Warranty

JD Power hasn’t given the 2023 RC a reliability rating but last year’s model got a score of 83 out of 100, putting it in the “Great” category.
Consumer Reports also gives the green light to go for this car, calling its reliability “average”.

The limited warranty covers 4 years or 50k miles, and the powertrain warranty is good for 6 years or 70k miles. You also get complimentary maintenance for 1 year or 10k miles.

Verdict

The 2023 Lexus RC is an exclusive sports coupe that will be a great addition to your garage. This is as it drives well, is reasonably fuel-efficient, luxurious, well-equipped and dependable.

To get a 2023 Lexus RC in Mason, Morrow, and Loveland, check out Performance Lexus here.