Is the Lexus RC really unpopular? A thorough explanation of the reasons and hidden charms

The Lexus RC is a premium coupe that the Lexus brand is proud of. While it has a sleek design and high driving performance, it is also said to be "unpopular". Certainly, the current trend in the automotive market is dominated by SUVs and minivans, and it is undeniable that the two-door coupe category itself has become a niche.

In addition, it is often compared to other car models in terms of practicality, pricing, and fuel economy. But is the Lexus RC really an unattractive car? Let's explore the reasons for the "unpopularity" that is whispered about in the streets, and listen to the unique appeal of RCs, their reputation in the used car market, and the voices of users who actually own them.

In this article, we will analyze the background of the Lexus RC that is said to be unpopular, reevaluate its intrinsic values such as design, driving performance, and luxury, and provide information so that those who are considering purchasing it will not regret it. We will delve deeper into the significance of the existence of RC, which sets it apart from other popular car models, and how to choose wisely, with co-occurrence words.

Why the Lexus RC is said to be unpopular and its background

Shrinkage of the overall coupe market and the position of RC

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• In recent years, the global coupe market has been shrinking
• Growing popularity of SUVs and sedans leads to a relative decline in demand for coupes
• The Lexus RC is also affected by this market trend

One of the reasons why the Lexus RC is whispered to be "unpopular" is the shrinking market of the coupe category itself. Coupes used to be the star of automobiles, but in recent years, there has been a noticeable trend of popularity concentrating on SUVs and sedans with higher practicality worldwide.

The demand for two-door coupes is declining relatively as the number of users who place importance on family use, multi-person rides, and luggage loading capacity is increasing. The Lexus RC is not immune to this major market trend.

Even within the Lexus brand, SUV models such as NX and RX are the mainstay of sales, and sports coupes such as RC It's more of a hobby, It is positioned as a niche model.

There are also European premium coupes such as the BMW 4 Series and Audi A5 that are competitors, but the coupe market as a whole, including these models, is not as exciting as it used to be. Therefore, if you look only at the number of units sold, it will be less than other popular categories of car models. It is possible that this has led to the impression that it is "unpopular".

However, this does not mean that RC itself is not attractive, but it should be considered that structural changes in the market as a whole have a significant impact. Seeking styling and driving performance unique to coupes, It is also true that there is a strong support from certain demographics.

It's true that you don't see many coupes these days. It's just SUVs. I like the design of the RC, but the number of people who buy it may be limited.

Lack of practicality Rear seat comfort and loading capacity

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• The rear seats are narrow due to the coupe's unique design
• Trunk capacity is also limited compared to sedans and SUVs
• Designed to prioritize design and driving over everyday convenience

One of the reasons why the Lexus RC is shunned by some is its lack of practicality. This is not limited to RC, but can be said to be a common feature of many coupe models. First of all, the habitability of the rear seats. The price of a sleek roofline coupé design is that head clearance and legroom in the rear seats are quite limited.

It is difficult for 4 adults to travel comfortably for a long time, and basically It is better to think of it as a design that assumes that two adults will ride on board. It is necessary to divide it into emergency use or children's use.

Next is the loading capacity. The trunk capacity is also not large compared to sedans, hatchbacks and SUVs of the same class. You may need to be creative when carrying large items such as golf bags or multiple suitcases for travel. For users who are mainly thinking of using it to carry a lot of luggage on a daily basis or to go out frequently with their families, This lack of practicality is a bottleneck. It can be a factor that deviates from the choice.

The Lexus RC is a model that focuses on personal use and emphasizes design and driving performance. If practicality is the top priority, you should choose another car model, For users who can divide it as a coupe, It may not be a big problem. It is important to consider it according to your lifestyle.

High pricing Comparison with rival models

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• Premium pricing as a Lexus brand
• It is compared to domestic sports cars and imported coupes in the same class
• The difference in evaluation is whether the price is commensurate with the equipment and texture

When considering buying a Lexus RC, pricing can be one hurdle. Lexus is Toyota's premium brand, and the RC lives up to its name with a high-end interior and exterior and a full range of equipment.

Therefore, the price of a new car is set relatively high even for an entry-level grade. For example, there are multiple grades, such as gasoline models such as RC300 and RC350, and hybrid models such as RC300h, but all of them are more expensive than general domestic cars.

When it comes to this price range, various rival models come into view as a comparison. If it is a domestic sports car, there are models that pursue purer sports performance, and if you look at imported cars, such as the BMW 4 Series and Audi A5, Strong rivals in the same premium coupe segment exist.

When compared to these rival models, evaluations will be divided in terms of driving performance, brand image, design preference, etc. Especially for users who value performance first, there is no denying that RC pricing may seem expensive.

In addition, in the used car market, the value of the Lexus brand will be maintained to some extent. Compared to other coupes of the same age, There is a tendency for prices to move slightly higher. Of course, considering the high quality, quietness, ride comfort, full equipment, and generous after-sales service unique to Lexus, Many users find it worth the price.

Whether or not the high price is the reason for "unpopularity" depends on individual values and points of emphasis.

It's a Lexus, so it can't be helped that it's expensive. However, the texture of the interior and the equipment are substantial. I'm curious about how it compares to its rivals, but it seems to be highly satisfying to own.

Evaluation of fuel economy Hybrid and gasoline models

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• The hybrid model (RC300h) has good fuel economy for a coupe
• Gasoline models (RC300/RC350/RC F) have lower fuel economy in exchange for power
• Practical fuel economy fluctuates greatly depending on driving conditions

The fuel efficiency of the Lexus RC is evaluated differently depending on the type of engine installed. The lineup includes a hybrid model (RC300h) and several petrol engine models (RC300, RC350 and the high-performance version RC F).

The RC300h hybrid model is equipped with a system that combines a 2.5-liter engine and a motor, and achieves relatively good fuel economy (catalog fuel economy WLTC mode) for the coupe category.

While enjoying the elegant driving and design of the premium coupe, It is an attractive option for users who want to reduce maintenance costs, especially fuel costs.

On the other hand, gasoline models, especially the RC350 with a 3.5L V6 engine and the RC F with a 5.0L V8 engine, are inferior to hybrid models in terms of fuel efficiency in exchange for their powerful driving performance.

In particular, the RC F is a high-performance model and is not a model that prioritizes fuel economy. The 2.0-liter turbo engine used in the RC300 is set up to balance power and fuel economy, but it still pales in comparison to the latest eco-cars.

In addition, it is common for there to be a difference between catalog fuel economy and practical fuel economy. The actual fuel consumption (km/L) varies greatly depending on whether you are driving mainly in urban areas or highways, and how you drive (such as how much you press the accelerator). Especially if you want to enjoy sports driving, Fuel economy tends to deteriorate.

When talking in the context of "unpopularity", the fuel efficiency of gasoline models in particular It may be a bottleneck for those who value economy. The decision on which engine type to choose must be based on the balance between the desired driving performance and maintenance costs.

The length of the model life and the impact of minor changes

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• The RC has a relatively long model life since its introduction in 2014
• Improvements have been made with multiple minor changes
• Some have pointed out that the basic design is old

The Lexus RC has had a relatively long model life since its appearance in 2014. During this time, several minor changes have been made, including changes to the exterior design, equipment updates, and improved driving performance. As a result, compared to the early models, the sophistication and functionality of the interior and exterior have steadily improved.

For example, the design of the headlights and the evolution of the infotainment system. However, on the other hand, the basic platform and skeleton have not changed much since its debut. Automotive technology is constantly advancing, especially safe driving support systems and connected functions. It is inevitable that there will be parts that pale in comparison to the latest models.

This long model life may be one of the reasons why it is said to be "unpopular" in some quarters, leading to negative evaluations such as "old design" and "lack of freshness". Especially for users who are always looking for the latest technology and design, it may feel unsatisfactory.

However, if you look at it from a different perspective, The fact that it has been produced for a long time means that It can be said that it is a model with a high degree of perfection and maturity. There are also advantages such as the elimination of problems that are common in early models and the abundance of options in the used car market.

Understanding the history of improvements due to minor changes, Figuring out which model year suits your needs is the key to It is important when choosing a used car. If you don't stick to the latest models, you can say that you can enjoy the aged charm.

Is it designed more than 10 years ago? Certainly, compared to the latest cars, it may feel old. I'm sure they're doing their best with minor changes, but I wonder if they won't do a full model change.

Trends in quotes and resale values in the used car market

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• In the used car market, the number of relatively affordable properties is increasing.
• There is a large price difference depending on the model year, mileage, and grade.
• The resale value tends not to be as high as other Lexus cars

The market price and resale value trends of Lexus RC in the used car market may also be related to the image of "unpopularity". As time has passed since their appearance and the amount of used cars in circulation has increased, the number of properties that can be purchased at relatively affordable prices has increased.

Considering that the price of a new car was high, We can say that you have a chance to get a premium coupe at an attractive price.

However, the price of a used car can vary greatly depending on the model year, mileage, grade (especially RC F is stable at a high price), the condition of the vehicle, equipment, etc. In general, newer and less mileage vehicles will be more expensive.

In terms of resale value, the Lexus brand as a whole tends to remain relatively high, but some say that when it comes to RC, you can't expect as high a resale as popular SUV models (such as NX and RX).

This is thought to be due to the aforementioned shrinking of the coupe market and practical issues. Especially early model years and vehicles with a lot of mileage, There is a possibility that the price will fall by a large amount.

However, on the flip side, this can also be an advantage when buying a used car. For users who don't care too much about the resale value and want to enjoy the design and driving of the RC, It may be said that it is the model of the target.

When choosing a used car, it is important to understand the market price, carefully assess the condition of the vehicle, and consider the total payment and future value.

Why the Lexus RC is still attractive and how to choose wisely

Sleek exterior design with a strong presence

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• Dynamic modeling starting from the spindle grille
• Wide and low coupe form with a low stance
• Attention to detail and high paint quality

One of the biggest attractions of the Lexus RC is its sleek and powerful exterior design. The bold use of the iconic Lexus spindle grille, followed by sharp headlights, inflected fender lines and a smoothly descending roofline, create a dynamic and elegant coupe form.

The low, wide-and-low stance emphasizes the sporty impression and has the power to attract the viewer. Even if you pay attention to the details, L-shaped daytime running lights, three-dimensional tail lamps, etc. You can feel Lexus' commitment to detailed design. The precision of the seams of the body panels and the high quality of the paint that gives off a deep luster are also unique to Lexus, a premium brand.

The design has been partially changed due to minor changes, but the beauty of the basic silhouette remains consistent. The presence in the city is outstanding, It can be said that it is a design that satisfies the joy of ownership. Although it is sometimes compared to other car models in terms of practicality and fuel efficiency, there are many users who fall in love with this design and choose RC.

Because it has a universal beauty that is not easily swayed by trends, It has a charm that does not fade even with the passage of age. Designs that appeal to the senses, which cannot be measured by functionality alone, are the great value of RC.

The design of the RC is really cool! The spindle grille is also powerful, and the silhouette from the side is the best. Just riding this seems to make me feel better. Even if it is said to be unpopular, this design is one of a kind!

Lexus' unique luxury interior and ride comfort

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• High-quality interior with high-quality materials and careful construction
• Quiet and comfortable interior space
• Supple ride and stable driving feeling

The appeal of the Lexus RC is not limited to the exterior design. When you open the door and get in, you will find a luxurious interior space unique to Lexus. Soft padding, genuine leather, and stitching are effectively used for the dashboard and door trim, creating a high texture both tactile and visual. Attention has been paid to the operation and arrangement of the switches, creating an environment where the driver can concentrate on driving comfortably.

Another virtue that is common to all Lexus cars is their high level of quietness. Engine noise, road noise, wind noise, etc. are effectively suppressed. Even when driving at high speeds, a comfortable space is maintained that makes it easy to talk in the car. In terms of ride comfort, even though it is a sporty coupe, it skillfully manages the impact from the road surface to achieve a supple and flat ride.

This is the result of a highly rigid body and a well-tuned suspension. The F SPORT grade is equipped with an electronically controlled suspension (AVS) that changes the damping force according to the driving mode. It achieves both comfort and sportiness at a high level.

It's not just about design, Creating a space where the driver and passengers can spend a comfortable time, The fact that it provides a high-quality travel experience is also a major attraction of the Lexus RC. It will bring you a rich time from daily driving to long drives.

Straightforward handling and driving performance due to FR layout

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• Front-engine, rear-drive (FR) layout
• Excellent front-to-rear weight balance and straightforward handling characteristics
• The joy of driving for a sporty ride

The Lexus RC uses an FR (front-engine, rear-drive) layout in which the engine is mounted at the front and the rear wheels are driven (there were some 4WD options, but the basic FR is FR). This FR layout is a drive system often used in sports cars and premium cars, and is a major attraction in the driving performance of RCs.

The advantage of the FR layout is first of all the good front-rear weight balance. It is easy to place heavy objects such as engines and transmissions closer to the center of the vehicle, making it easy to optimize the load distribution to the front and rear tires. By this good turnability when cornering, The car obediently changes direction in response to the driver's steering operation, realizing light handling characteristics.

In addition, since there is a clear division of roles between the front wheels steering and the rear wheels driving, the grip of the tires can be used efficiently during acceleration and cornering. There is also the fun of controlling the behavior of the car by operating the accelerator. For drivers who want to experience the feeling of "driving a car", FR has its own unique charm.

In the Lexus RC, the highly rigid body and specially tuned suspension maximize the benefits of this FR layout. In a stable drive, there is fun that can be operated at the will of the driver. If you drive on winding roads, you will be able to feel the goodness of its characteristics.

For users who want to enjoy driving rather than just as a means of transportation, the FR layout of the RC is a big advantage.

When you hear FR, it sounds irresistible for those who like to run. However, if it is a snowy road or a slippery road, it may be a little scary. If stability is important, I wonder if 4WD is good.

Abundant engine lineup Tips for choosing

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• If fuel efficiency is important, hybrid (RC300h)
• Balanced Turbo (RC300)
• Powerful V6 (RC350) and V8 (RC F) options

One of the attractions of the Lexus RC is that it has a rich lineup of engines that can be selected according to the user's preferences and usage. Each engine has its own characteristics, and the points of choice are also different.

First of all, if fuel efficiency and quietness are important, we recommend the RC300h, a hybrid system that combines a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine with a motor. As a coupe, it has excellent fuel economy, and you can enjoy premium driving while keeping fuel costs down. It is suitable for those who mainly ride in the city and those who often drive long distances.

Next, the 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder turbo engine used in the RC300 is a unit with a good balance of power and fuel economy. While having the necessary and sufficient power performance, Although it is not as fuel efficient as hybrids, It is more economical than a relatively large-displacement NA engine. It is also easy to handle. If you're looking for a more powerful acceleration feel and the feel unique to an NA engine, the RC350's 3.5-liter V-6 engine is an option. It blows up smoothly to high revs, and you can enjoy sporty driving with plenty of power. However, fuel economy performance is inferior to RC300 and RC300h.

And if you're looking for the ultimate in performance, there's the RC F, which comes with a 5.0-liter V8 engine. The overwhelming power and sensual engine sound set it apart from other grades. It can be said that it is a special model for users who are also considering circuit driving.

As you can see, the Lexus RC has multiple powertrains available. Your own driving style, Considering the annual mileage, maintenance budget, etc., Choosing the right engine is an important part of increasing post-purchase satisfaction.

Advantages of aiming for a used car How to determine the price and condition

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• You can ride a premium coupe at an affordable price compared to the price of a new car
• The amount of circulation has increased, and the choice has become abundant
• It is necessary to check the model year, mileage, maintenance history, etc.

The Lexus RC is one of the models that has a lot of advantages from targeting used cars. The biggest advantage is probably the price.

RC, which is a premium coupe that is expensive for new cars, is also priced according to the model year and mileage in the used car market. You'll have the chance to get the Lexus scoope you've been dreaming of on a realistic budget. Especially if the vehicle is of an early model year or has accumulated a certain amount of mileage, the price may be quite attractive.

In addition, due to the passage of time since its appearance, the circulation of used cars has also increased, making it easier to find one that suits your taste among vehicles of various grades, colors, and equipment.

In addition to certified used cars, there are many properties available at general used car dealers. However, when choosing an RC for a used car, it is very important to have a good look at the condition of the vehicle. Don't jump at the low price alone, check the balance between the model year and mileage, whether there is a repair history, the condition of the interior and exterior, and the maintenance record book. It is important to keep track of the maintenance history so far.

In particular, vehicles that may have been used for sports driving or vehicles that are over-driven need to carefully check the condition of consumable parts. If possible, take a test drive to check the condition of the engine, transmission, and suspension. Choosing a reputable retailer and checking the availability and contents of the warranty will give you more peace of mind after your purchase.

If you can identify a used car in good condition with the right knowledge, The Lexus RC can be a very bargain option.

I'm glad that it's easier to get hold of it if it's second-hand! New cars are expensive, but if they are a few years old, the price will drop considerably. It would be great if you could find a car in good condition. It's going to be fun to look for!

How much does it cost to maintain? Estimated annual cost

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• Taxes and insurance premiums are at the same level as general vehicles of the same class
• Maintenance costs, especially parts, tend to be higher
• Hybrids are more fuel-efficient, but gasoline models can be more expensive

One of the concerns about owning a Lexus RC is the annual maintenance cost.

First of all, taxes such as automobile tax and weight tax are determined according to the displacement of the engine and the weight of the vehicle, so they are not particularly high compared to domestic and imported cars of the same class. Regarding voluntary insurance premiums, the rate of vehicle insurance may be set slightly higher, but it varies greatly depending on the grade, age, and coverage.

Among the maintenance costs, you still need to pay attention to the maintenance cost and fuel cost. Lexus is a premium brand, and the cost of parts and maintenance at authorized dealers tends to be higher than that of a typical domestic car brand.

The cost of regular inspections and vehicle inspections can also be higher than expected if there are more replacement parts. By finding a reliable professional maintenance shop, it is possible to devise ways to keep costs down.

The cost of fuel can vary greatly depending on the engine you choose. The hybrid model RC300h has good fuel economy as a coupe and can reduce fuel costs, but gasoline models, especially RC350 and RC F, In exchange for power, fuel consumption (high-octane designation) increases, If you have a lot of mileage per year, the cost of fuel will increase.

As a guideline for annual maintenance costs, it is 100,000 yen ~ per year for taxes and insurance premiums, 100,000 yen ~ per year for regular maintenance (oil changes, etc.) and vehicle inspection costs (annualized), plus fuel costs. Of course, this is only a guideline. It varies depending on the condition of the vehicle, the mileage, the insurance you take, and the details of maintenance.

Taking into account repair costs due to unexpected breakdowns, and considering a budget for maintenance costs with a certain margin is the key to owning an RC with peace of mind.

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Summary: The true value of the Lexus RC and the choice you won't regret

Thank you and advice from the operator of this site.

Hello, I'm a coupe lover. Thank you for sticking with us until the end!

"Lexus RC, is it unpopular?" may be a little lonely and unsettling for those who are fascinated by this phrase and the design of the RC. I was numb to the shocking coolness of RC's debut. I thought, "I want to drive a coupe like this someday!"

Indeed, in this day and age, not everyone chooses a coupe. If you have a growing family or want to load a lot of luggage, an SUV or minivan is inevitably convenient. Also, since it's a Lexus brand, the price is reasonable. Therefore, if you only look at the number of units sold, it may look "unpopular".

But that doesn't mean RC isn't appealing. That flowing body line, high-quality interior, and the fun of driving that only FR can provide. I think these are special values that cannot be replaced by any other car, and only RC can be replaced.

It's nice to drive a trendy car, but driving every day will surely be more enjoyable if you ride in a car that you really like. Isn't the RC one that can carry out exactly such a "like"?

The used car market is also seeing an increase in RCs with affordable prices. Of course, it's important to assess the condition, but if you look wisely, you have a good chance of starting the RC life you've always dreamed of. If you think about the maintenance cost properly and plan within reason, you will surely be able to make a choice that you will not regret.

Don't let the word "unpopular" fool you, and try to see the true value of RC with your own eyes. We hope this article will be the first step in your wonderful car life!