Josh Jacquot is a seasoned automotive journalist with a career spanning more than two decades. His passion for cars has been the driving force behind his career, fueling his love for storytelling and technical work. Josh has held staff positions at Edmunds and Car and Driver, where he performed instrumented testing and wrote everything from technical breakdowns to long-form adventure stories. This hands-on enthusiast's early fascination with cars evolved into a professional journey that blends his technical knowledge and deep appreciation for engaging driver's cars.
3/17/2025
Even by fine wine standards, the Lexus RC is old. Completing an 11-year run in 2025, the Lexus coupe has now surpassed the decade-old milestone. So it's not surprising that this will be its last year. The RC is available in three models: the RC 300, RC 350 and RC F. The RC 300 and RC 350 are relatively tame but come punctuated by optional F Sport trims that add handling and aesthetic enhancements. The RC F snarls modestly with a 472-horsepower V8 that's both more benign and less sophisticated than what's offered by its rivals.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2025 Lexus RC F Final Edition 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.00 per gallon for premium unleaded in Arizona.
This year's RC continues its ethos of coupe-like character tempered by Lexus-like calm. This is a coupe that, even in its most radical RC F form, does nothing to break ground in handling or acceleration. Rather, its gentle approach to two-door motoring is aligned completely with the collected side of luxury touring. It won't wake the neighbors when you fire it up and it probably won't raise its driver's blood pressure even when pushed. It is, however, beautifully crafted inside, where occupants are coddled in lavish materials and simple luxury. If you want the style of a sport coupe with the attitude of a relaxed daily driver, the RC — despite its age — is a good place to start.
Competitors to consider
Most of the RC's competitors are German and they're all newer than this aging coupe. BMW's 2 Series and 4 Series coupes, including the potent M2 and M4, are top choices. Mercedes-Benz's CLE Coupe is another one thanks to its ideal combination of luxury, technology and comfort. We also suggest checking out the Ford Mustang. It's not as luxurious, but it's less expensive and a lot more fun to drive.
Which RC does Edmunds recommend?
If you're looking for the best combination of comfort, performance and cost, we think the RC 350 is the trim to get. It's available in both drive configurations and with the F Sport handling upgrades if that's your thing. And it's far less costly than the RC F.
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Not Tested
FAQ
Is the Lexus RC a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2025 RC both on the road and at the track. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the RC has 9.9 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Lexus RC. Learn more
What's new in the 2025 Lexus RC?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2025 Lexus RC:
No major changes for 2025
Part of the first RC generation introduced for 2015
To determine whether the Lexus RC is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the RC. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the RC's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2025 Lexus RC a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2025 Lexus RC is a good car. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2025 RC is a good car for you. Check back soon for the official Edmunds Rating from our expert testing team Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2025 Lexus RC?
The least-expensive 2025 Lexus RC is the 2025 Lexus RC F Final Edition 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $92,825.
Other versions include:
F Final Edition 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 8A) which starts at $92,825
If you're interested in the Lexus RC, the next question is, which RC model is right for you? RC variants include F Final Edition 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 8A). For a full list of RC models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
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