2017 Lexus RC F is the Ultimate Middle Ground
With its naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 and distinctive styling, the RC F is the perfect ‘middle child,’ says Autobytel
The middle child usually tends to be somewhat forgotten by the parents. The youngest tends to get the majority of the attention, while the oldest is always regarded as the benchmark. In the luxury sports car segment, the BMW M4 is the benchmark, the vehicle every automaker tries to beat, and the new Cadillac ATS-V is the newcomer. Where does that put the Lexus RC F? According to Autobytel, somewhere in the middle, which is where it shines.
It’s hard to talk about a new Lexus without touching upon the vehicle’s looks. The full-blown RC F, which is one of the more purpose built machines from the automaker, features a hood scoop, beautiful daytime running lights, multi-spoke wheels, integrated spoiler, and quad tailpipes. Competitors may have gone for a more subdued look, but the RC F is in your face in a great way.
Speaking of things that are in your face, Lexus continues to stay true to its roots with a naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8, while the rest of the world has gone the way of turbochargers. The V8 has a dual personality, according to Autobytel, which allows the vehicle to be calm and collected during regular driving, while switching the vehicle to Sport + mode changes it into a proper sports car.
Autobytel claims the M4 may be more planted, the Mercedes-AMG C63 S has more power, and the Cadillac CTS-V is a maniac wielding a chainsaw. But the RC F is different, states Autobytel. The ride is comfortable, the interior useable, and the powertrain capable of more than just flat-out speed. This makes the RC F a grand tourer, something that’s missing in the other competitors.
Don’t for a second, though, mistake the RC F for being a cushy, underperforming sports cars, as Autobytel points out, using the slick eight-speed transmission to go down a few gears awakens the beast, bringing a completely different personality out.
