Lexus RC F’s Track Ambitions Hindered by Heavyweight Build
A video review of the Lexus RC F highlights its powerful V8 and luxury credentials but points to its considerable weight as a limiting factor on track performance.
A recent video review of the Lexus RC F puts the spotlight on the coupe’s 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8, but also exposes the car’s struggle to deliver on-track agility due to its weight. At 1,840kg, the RC F outweighs rivals such as the BMW M4 by nearly 300kg, a factor that becomes clear when the car is pushed hard on a circuit.
On public roads, reviewers found the RC F to be engaging and comfortable, with the V8 engine providing strong acceleration and a distinctive soundtrack. The 471hp output and 550Nm of torque give the car a 0-62mph time of 4.6 seconds and a top speed capped at 168mph. These figures put it ahead of the earlier IS F and in direct contention with established German performance coupes.
Weight and handling: the decisive issue
The RC F’s mass is its defining trait on track. According to the review, the car’s 1,840kg kerb weight dulls its responses when compared with lighter competitors. The BMW M4, for instance, is almost 300kg lighter, which translates to sharper direction changes and better composure at the limit. The Lexus’s extra bulk makes it feel less nimble and more prone to understeer, particularly in tight corners where weight transfer is critical.
For buyers who intend to use the RC F as a daily driver, the weight brings benefits: the car feels solid, and the extra mass contributes to a refined ride. The luxury focus is evident in the cabin, which is well-appointed but comes with some practical drawbacks. Visibility is restricted by the coupe’s design, and the infotainment system drew criticism for being less intuitive than rivals. The foot-operated parking brake is another feature that stands out as dated in a segment where electronic handbrakes are now common.
Practicality and rivals
Compared with the BMW M4, the RC F falls short in rear seat and boot space. The Lexus offers more power on paper, but the weight penalty means it cannot match the M4’s agility or practicality. For drivers prioritising track capability, alternatives such as the BMW M3 GTSor Ferrari 458 Specialeoffer a more focused driving experience, albeit at a much higher price point.
- Strong V8 performance and luxury feel on the road
- Heavier than key rivals, limiting track agility
- Infotainment and practicality lag behind segment leaders
The RC F’s appeal lies in its blend of naturally aspirated power and comfort, but its track ambitions are held back by a weight figure that is hard to ignore in this segment. For those seeking a daily-use GT with a charismatic engine, the Lexus remains a contender. For buyers focused on lap times, the numbers tell a different story.
