New Models
New Models

2019 Lexus RC: Australian debut set for late 2018

Local arm confirms facelifted coupe will arrive in Australian showrooms before year's end.


Lexus Australia will bring the facelifted RC line-up Down Under later this year, the company has confirmed.

Key changes for the two-door coupe include an updated design inside and out inspired by the flagship LC coupe, along with suspension, steering and engine revisions for a "sharper and more refined drive".

Compared to the model currently on sale, the 2019 RC gets new headlights with integrated L-shaped LED daytime-running lights, new bumpers, and a revised mesh insert for the spindle grille.

Out back, there's refreshed tail-lights with a more distinct L-shaped signature. Filling the arches are a choice of new alloy wheel designs, including 19-inch units inspired by the rims on the LC and LS.

More subtle changes have been made to the cabin, with the MY19 RC offering new 'Dark Grey Streamline' elements for the heater control and audio panels, while "enlarged knee pads" have been raised to give a "heightened sense of space".

F Sport models will be available with Dark Gray Streamline trim inserts, with a total of six different ornamentation options available. Trainspotters may notice the new analogue clock mounted in the dashboard taken straight from the LC.

Lexus has also added stiffer suspension bushings along with new shock absorbers for "significant damping force", which the company says helps to deliver "extremely supple ride quality and razor-sharp handling".

As for the powertrains, the turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder used in the RC300 has been enhanced, offering "a more direct feeling of acceleration" for a "more spirited driving experience". No word on beefed-up outputs, though.

Pricing and specifications for our market will be confirmed closer to launch, though we can expect the range to continue consisting of the RC300 (nee RC200t) and RC350, along with the V8-powered RC F – though the updated version of the flagship is yet to be unveiled.

Currently, the range kicks off at $65,329 before on-road costs for the entry-level RC300 Luxury, topping out at $151,929 plus ORCs for the flagship RC F Carbon. We'd expect the MY19 range to be priced in that vicinity.

Stay tuned to CarAdvice for all the latest. Note: overseas models shown.

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