Lexus is now offering an updated version of the RC coupe to Australian customers. The improvements brought for the 2019 model year include rather subtle changes with the end being to further refine its dynamics and (relative) visual appeal. Pricing, too, takes a correspondingly uniform bump as a result.
While the RC has never really led the pack, swaying new customers based on its looks, Lexus seems to be of the mind that there really is hidden beauty here, and the slight alterations to the sheet metal are meant to help frame that in our minds.
This has been achieved through a redesigned front and rear bumper, restyled LED headlamps, an altered mesh pattern to its spindle grille, and some new alloys that echoes the set fitted to the flagship LC.
Has it helped? To our eyes, yes, but it’s still some distance from being as desirable as a BMW 4 Series, Audi A5 Coupe, or Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe. However, while looks are so subjective and there certainly are defenders of the RC’s unique visage, indisputable is the fact that it wasn’t as good to drive as those aforementioned rivals.
To rectify this disparity, the Japanese automaker has fitted new shocks and stiffer bushings to expand its dynamic range on the road by theoretically sharpening the front end while making the ride more supple. Its new body panels were also informed by aerodynamics, and for 2019 Lexus promises the RC will boast improved high speed stability and reduced drag, making it a better grand tourer.
There are two engine options with the buyer choosing either Luxury or F Sport trim on either. The RC 300 receives a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol with 180kW and 350Nm while the RC350 use a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 that delivers 232kW/380Nm, and a much better soundtrack. Both are mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, also unchanged from before. It’s worth noting that the RC350, regardless of trim choice, includes adaptive suspension over the 300’s fixed rate steel springs.
Equipment levels have improved across the 2019 range to include blind spot monitoring, lane change alert, rear cross traffic alert, rain-sensing wipers, and dynamic cornering lamps as standard. Inside, the cabin is as excellently constructed if ergonomically iffy as before, but Lexus have applied a brushed metal accent treatment and an analogue clock.
- RC 300 Luxury - $66,174
- RC 300 F-Sport - $74,529
- RC 350 Luxury - $69,874
- RC 350 F-Sport - $77,529
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