Review
Lexus RC 300h
Lexus describes the RC as a prestige coupe designed to appeal to a new and younger audience. This coupe has, among other things, a handsome design and some technological innovations. We were already introduced to the super sporty Lexus RC F in a previous video. In this issue we take a look at the RC 300h hybrid.
Full Hybrid
Like Lexus’ other hybrids, the RC 300h is a “Full Hybrid” that can operate in combustion mode, electric mode or a combination of both. The hybrid system consists of the combination of a four-cylinder gasoline engine with Atkinson cycle and an electric motor. The petrol engine has a capacity of 2,494 cc and delivers a power of 181 hp and a maximum torque of 221 Nm.
The electric motor has a power of 143 hp. The total system power of the hybrid is 223 hp. The RC 300h also has a generator and a nickel metal hydride battery (Ni-MH). The RC 300h sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds and the top speed is around 190 km/h. These are not really super sporty values, but this is offset by an average consumption of 4.7l/100 km. In terms of transmission, the car has a continuously variable transmission (E-CVT). This uses an electronic shifting system with six gears.
F SPORTS
During the development of the Lexus RC, extra attention was paid to the design of the car. We certainly like the exterior of the RC 300h, just like that of the RC F, for example. Our test car was also equipped with an F-SPORT version with a specific finish. The F-SPORT versions have their own version of the spindle-shaped radiator grille. This is wider and lower and uses a new “F” pattern. There are also 3 specific F-SPORT colours: Nova White, Solar Orange and Saphire Blue. In the interior we see a new dial with a central ring similar to that of the LFA. There are also specific stitching seams, pedals and decorative sills in aluminum and leather upholstery “Grenat”. At the rear of the RC 300h, it is mainly the large wheel arches and double exhaust that attract attention and give this car a sporty appearance.
Silence
The interior of the RC 300h is pleasantly quiet and many measures have been taken to eliminate disturbing noises as much as possible. For example, thicker panels have been used for the dashboard and the central floor. Foam and insulating materials were used on the doors and rear side windows, the front panel and the side seam of the hood to block out as much engine noise as possible from the interior.
Avoid accident
The Lexus RC 300h has numerous safety systems that are available as standard or optionally. The RC has the Pre-Crash Safety system. If there is a high risk of an accident, the system will warn the driver in several steps. First there will be an audible signal and a warning light on the multifunctional screen. The system will also strengthen the braking force and if a collision becomes unavoidable, the system will brake the car to avoid an accident or at least limit its consequences.
Conclusion
The Lexus RC 300h is a handsome and luxurious coupe with a high-quality finish. The hybrid mainly offers tax benefits and attractive consumption. Although the system power is 223 hp, it is not really a sporty car, but rather a comfortable cruiser.
Johan De Haes
Test driver
