The Lexus RC returns for 2022 with minimal changes.

The RC sports coupe is not based on another of Lexus' previous sedan platforms and is instead designed from a clean sheet. The RC's exceptionally stiff chassis builds on Lexus' reputation and manufacturing excellence. The automaker itself claims the RC "the best-handling regular production Lexus yet."

The RC's performance begins under the hood. Power comes from a choice of two engines, a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder that is capable of 241 horsepower and 258 lb-feet of torque, or a naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 is good for 260 horsepower and 236 lb-feet of torque. The 2.0L is only available with rear-wheel drive, while the RC300 and RC 350 are offered with a choice of either rear or all-wheel drive, the RC350 is capable of 311 horsepower with the V6. The highest end model of the RC family is the RC F and RC F Track that boasts a 472 horsepower, 5.0 liter V8 engine.

Lexus' "all-weather drive" system uses an electronic center differential to vary torque from the standard 20/80 front/rear to as much as 50/50. Braking in all RC models is quick and powerful, thanks to big 13-inch front brake rotors.

Outside, all RC models feature standard 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and taillights and heated exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals. Inside, the RC includes NuLuxe interior surfaces with aluminum and wood accents, a 60/40 split-fold rear seat, automatic climate control, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, cruise control, HomeLink, 7.0 inch Infotainment display, a 256-watt, 10-speaker audio system, back-up camera and more. The all-wheel drive RC 350 also features heated front seats.

Factory options abound, including 19-inch wheels, a blind spot monitor, leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats, parking assist, a moonroof, navigation and an 835-watt Mark Levinson 17-speaker premium surround sound system. The all-wheel drive can be optioned with an All-Weather Package that includes headlamp washers, an instant-heat PTC heater, and a windshield de-icer. The Luxury Package adds many standalone options such as the blind spot indicator, heated/ventilated leather seats, rain-sensing wipers and more. Finally, the optional F Sport Package adds a mesh grille, 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive variable suspension with a Sport+ driving mode, aluminum pedals, sport seats with contrast stitching, unique badging and more.

In the Rear-wheel-drive only the RC F includes the 8-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic, a Torsen limited-slip differential, huge 15-inch front and 13.6-inch rear vented disc brakes and unique "F" exterior and interior treatments. This particular model also benefits from a standard adaptive suspension, upgraded drive mode selector, Brembo brakes and speed activated rear wing. The RC F Track differs with its fixed rear wing and titanium exhaust.

Safety is paramount on the RC, and standard features include the Lexus Safety System+ bundle of driver assistance features. Included in this package are multiple airbags for front and side, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, forward collision mitigation, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure and keep assist, adaptive cruise, and auto high beam headlights and brake assist and traction control.

The Lexus RC operates in a field that includes the BMW 435i, Mercedes-Benz C350 and Audi A5. At nearly every turn, the RC outperforms one or all, be it in standard features, pricing, or outright performance. Lexus understands the competitive nature of the luxury sport coupe segment and the RC is poised to dominate.

Wide array of powertrain options; luxurious cabin; available technology; Standard Lexus Safety System+; performance-oriented RC F