Lexus tweaks RC coupe’s dynamics for 2021
LEXUS has taken a fine-tooth comb to its RC coupe range, making a series of tweaks and alterations here and there ready for the 2021 model year, the majority of which revolve around the transmission and rear suspension.
According to Lexus, the biggest change can be found in the mapping of the eight-speed transmission shared across the four- and six-cylinder range.
Specifically, the software has been updated to include a new adaptive system designed to “more assertively adapt transmission shift points” in response to driver inputs and road conditions when in the Normal, Sport or Sport+ drive modes.
Under the skin, wider aluminium rear stabiliser bars have been fitted to all variants in the name of rigidity and (marginal) weight saving.
Tweaks have been made in the cabin too with the addition of an electronic park brake as opposed to the old foot-operated system, resulting in a slight increase in footwell room while radar active cruise control is now standard across the range.
No changes have been made under the bonnet to any of the RC300 (Luxury/F Sport) or RC350 (Luxury/F Sport) grades, meaning the force-fed 2.0-litre four-cylinder and 3.5-litre V6 petrol mills continue on with the same 180kW/350Nm and 233kW/378Nm outputs respectively.
According to Lexus Australia chief executive Scott Thompson, the RC’s new features ensure the brand continues to offer customers increasingly high standards in key areas.
“These upgrades to the sporty, yet luxurious RC sports coupe further the Lexus reputation for making regular and thoughtful improvements to our entire range,” he said.
“The advanced technology and engineering in the Lexus RC ensures that every journey prioritises driver connection, dynamic performance and safety.”
Standard equipment across the range carries on largely unchanged as well with all models featuring dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated power-operated front seats, leather-accented interior, 10.3-inch display screen with Lexus Remote Touch-pad Controller, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, DAB+ digital radio, satellite navigation and a 10-speaker Pioneer audio system.
As a result, pricing across the range has only risen $100 with the entry-level RC300 Luxury now kicking off from $67,990 plus on-road costs while the flagship RC350 F Sport can be had for $78,736.
Lexus Australia has sold 167 RCs so far this year ending October, accounting for 6.2 per cent of the $80,000-plus sportscar segment and marking a 24.8 per cent drop year-on-year.
2021 Lexus RC pricing*
| RC300 Luxury (a) | $67,990 |
| RC300 F Sport (a) | $75,736 |
| RC350 Luxury (a) | $70,736 |
| RC350 F SPort (a) | $78,736 |
*Excludes on-road costs
