2019 Lexus RC 300h F Sport: Hybrid Review And 4 Drive Modes

The 2019 Lexus RC 300h F Sport represents a compelling fusion of luxury, efficiency, and athletic intent in the compact coupe arena. This model leverages Lexus’s proven hybrid technology to deliver smooth power delivery while maintaining an engaging drive. With updates enhancing its chassis and styling, it appeals to enthusiasts seeking refinement over raw aggression.

Powertrain and Performance Capabilities

At the heart of the RC 300h F Sport lies a self-charging hybrid system combining a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with electric motors, producing a combined output around 220 horsepower in rear-wheel-drive configuration. This setup pairs with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) tuned by Lexus to minimize the typical drone associated with hybrids, offering seamless acceleration.

Real-world testing reveals respectable efficiency, with official figures citing up to 56.5 mpg combined and CO2 emissions as low as 116 g/km for rear-drive versions. Drivers note the low center of gravity contributes to planted handling, making it suitable for spirited road trips. The F Sport variant introduces adaptive suspension, allowing mode selections like Eco, Normal, Sport, and Sport+ to tailor throttle response, steering weight, and damping.

• Drive Modes Breakdown:
• Eco: Optimizes fuel use for highway cruising.
• Normal: Balanced daily driving.
• Sport: Sharper throttle and firmer ride.
• Sport+: Maximizes performance with heightened feedback.

Braking feels progressive, blending regenerative and friction systems effectively, outperforming many hybrid rivals in pedal confidence. While not a track weapon, the 2019 refresh added stiffer bushings and grippier tires, sharpening turn-in without sacrificing comfort.

Exterior Design and Aerodynamic Styling

Lexus’s signature spindle grille dominates the front, paired with triple LED headlights and 19-inch alloys exclusive to F Sport trim. The 2019 facelift refined the grille, lamps, and bumpers for a more aggressive yet elegant profile. Low-slung proportions and a coupe roofline emphasize sportiness, with F Sport badges and unique wheels adding distinction.

Aerodynamics play a key role, aiding efficiency and stability at speed. The design strikes a balance between eye-catching presence and everyday usability, though the polarizing grille divides opinions.

Interior Comfort and Premium Appointments

Step inside to find a driver-focused cockpit with high-quality materials. F Sport models feature bolstered, heated, and ventilated leather seats offering excellent front support. Dual-zone climate control uses intuitive touch sliders, while a reconfigurable digital cluster provides vital info at a glance.

However, rear seating remains tight, better suited for occasional use or storage. Cargo space is modest at around 10 cubic feet, typical for the class. Standard amenities include a moonroof, push-button start, and rain-sensing wipers. The 2019 update introduced Apple CarPlay and Alexa integration, modernizing the infotainment despite a touchpad controller that frustrates some.

Driving Dynamics and Ride Quality

The double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension, revised for 2019, delivers composed handling with minimal body roll. Electric power steering offers improved feedback, weighting up progressively in corners. On twisty roads, the RC 300h feels agile, with neutral balance encouraging confident inputs.

Yet, it’s more grand tourer than sports car, prioritizing plush ride over sharpness. Adaptive dampers in F Sport trim smooth imperfections while firming for enthusiasm. Fuel economy shines on long hauls, with testers achieving over 30 mpg on freeways.

Safety Features and Advanced Driver Aids

Lexus Safety System+ comes standard, including pre-collision braking, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise. F Sport adds blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Parking sensors are available, aiding the coupe’s visibility challenges. Crash ratings align with Lexus standards, emphasizing structural rigidity.

Competitive Positioning and Pricing

Priced from around $45,000 for base RC 300, F Sport hybrids command premiums near $55,000, competing with BMW 4 Series, Audi A5, and Infiniti Q60. It excels in reliability and efficiency but trails in acceleration versus V6 rivals. Consumer ratings praise styling and comfort, rating value at 4.5/5.

Pros and Cons Overview

• Pros: Efficient hybrid, comfortable ride, premium build, updated tech.
• Cons: Cramped rear, touchpad infotainment, modest power.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the fuel economy of the 2019 Lexus RC 300h F Sport?

Official figures reach 56.5 mpg combined with 116 g/km CO2 for RWD models.

Does it have Apple CarPlay?

Yes, the 2019 refresh added Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa.

Is the F Sport suspension much firmer?

It features adaptive damping, balancing sportiness and comfort via selectable modes.

How does it compare to the RC 350?

The hybrid prioritizes efficiency over the V6’s power, suiting relaxed drives.

What’s the warranty like?

Lexus offers 4 years/60,000 miles basic, with 8 years/100,000 miles hybrid components.

Long-Term Ownership Considerations

Reliability remains a Lexus hallmark, with low maintenance costs. Hybrid batteries are warrantied extensively, reducing ownership risks. Resale holds strong due to brand prestige. For buyers valuing smoothness and style over outright speed, the RC 300h F Sport delivers enduring appeal.

In summary, this coupe blends hybrid innovation with F Sport flair, ideal for refined cruising with occasional thrills.