Lexus RC review

We’re yet to drive the RC 300h, but the hybrid model props up the performance pecking order with a middling 0-62mph time of 8.6sec. Its 2.5-litre petrol engine and electric motor combine to produce 220bhp and are governed by a CVT automatic gearbox with six simulated ‘gears’ that can be changed manually via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The 300h can also operate for short distances in emissions-free electric-only mode - great for negotiating congested urban roads in quiet comfort.

There’s more performance to be had with the 241bhp RC 200t, which uses a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine with an eight-speed automatic gearbox. It reaches 62mph in 7.5sec and the engine pulls strongly and smoothly, but it’s not a great-sounding powerplant, gearshifts aren’t the quickest and acceleration tails off at higher speeds as the car’s slightly high weight of 1675kg starts to tell.

Among other sporty features, the RC 200t F Sport version comes with adaptive suspension and a rear limited-slip differential for improved cornering. Even in its most relaxed suspension setting, the ride is quite firm, but not disruptively so - the payoff being that body control is pretty good given the car’s fairly substantial weight, and the steering is well-weighted and responsive. Some motorway jitters and the odd urban bump aren’t overly unsettling.

The V8-engined RC F came off second-best when we tested it against the excellent BMW M4, but the F is still a commendable super-coupe thanks to its naturally aspirated, 471bhp 5.0-litre V8, which revs freely, makes a great noise and hurls the car to 62mph in just 4.5sec. It uses a similar eight-speed gearbox to the RC 200t’s, but, unlike that car, the RC F goes without adaptive suspension. It rides nicely, but with even more weight in the engine bay it struggles to compete with the likes of the BMW M4 for agility and driver engagement. It has plenty of grip, but lacks the steering precision of the BMW and is less controllable when pushing hard.