The segment for luxury coupes is shrinking and sales are in continuous decline as buyers flock to SUVs and automakers divert funds to EV development. There are still two Lexus coupe models available - the aging RC and the large LC - but their futures are uncertain. It is likely that future replacements, if they happen, will have to be cost-sharing joint ventures, like the Toyota Supra/BMW Z4 or the Subaru BRZ/Toyota GR86. However, they would have to adhere to Lexus values such as arresting, individualistic styling, and superb quality. For now, the 2020 Lexus coupe models carry over into 2021 mostly unchanged.
Lexus Coupe Models
The Lexus RC is one of the compact premium coupes in the US market providing competition in a class still populated by some strong contenders, such as the Infiniti Q60, BMW 4 Series, and Audi A5. Higher up, the premium GT segment is even smaller and, at the price, the LS-derived LC Coupe trades blows with dedicated sports cars such as the Porsche 911 and in-house competition from the top-line RC models.
Here are the Lexus 2-door coupe models currently for sale in the USA:
- Lexus RC: Based on the 2013 4-door IS sedan, the RC is getting on in life, showing its age in terms of its cumbersome infotainment system and the lack of true sports-car credentials in the normal and F Sport models. Rear-seat space is really tight and no manual transmission is available at all. However, its sharp exterior styling and excellently constructed, stylish interior hide its age. And, while not offering class-leading handling, it is a refined driving experience. For enthusiasts, the RC F offers the 472-horsepower 5.0L V8 engine from the large LC at a substantial cost saving, delivering performance close to that of BMW’s M4 models. The Track Edition is very expensive at nearly $100,000, even though it lags behind rival sports cars.
- Lexus LC: This LS-based Lexus two-door coupe is large and heavy and a true grand tourer, also offering a hybrid in a class where, besides the Mercedes-AMG E53 Coupe, this technology is a rarity. However, despite its size, the LC’s rear seat and trunk are minuscule and oddments storage is lacking. It’s also very heavy and the infotainment system can be frustrating to use. Pluses include very striking styling, best-in-class quality levels, excellent fuel economy on the hybrid, a refined driving experience, an exciting V8 in the LC 500, and competitive handling.
Lexus Two-Door Coupe Price List
These are the models and prices of new Lexus coupes currently available:
Model |
Power |
Engine |
Base Price |
Lexus LC Coupe |
471 hp |
5.0L V8 Gas |
$93,050 |
Lexus RC F |
472 hp |
5.0L V8 Gas |
$66,220 |
Lexus LFA |
552 hp |
4.8L V10 Gas |
$375,000 |
Lexus LC Hybrid |
354 hp |
3.5L V6 Hybrid |
$99,050 |
Lexus RC |
241 hp |
2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas |
$42,820 |
What to Consider Before Buying Lexus Coupes
There are some general pros and cons to keep in mind when considering one of the 2021 Lexus coupe models:
Pros
- Class-leading quality and reliability
- Premium interior finishes
- Breadth of models, including performance and hybrid options
- Eye-catching styling
Cons
- Substantial weight
- Driving dynamics are not class-leading
- Unintuitive infotainment systems
- Cramped rear seats and small trunks
- No AWD models available
FAQs
Is the LC500h hybrid model worth it for the fuel savings?
While the hybrid’s EPA-estimated city/highway/combined figures of 26/34/29 mpg are a lot better than the V8’s 16/25/19 mpg, the gap has been proven to be inconsequential on the highway, where the hybrid is less efficient. For this type of car, and considering what it costs, go for the V8.
Which is the best Lexus coupe to buy?
In terms of pure value for money, nothing touches the RC F. The LC500 is more modern, but slower and a lot more expensive.
Which Lexus coupe is the best for weekends away touring?
Strangely enough, the smaller RC. Its 10.4-cubic-foot trunk is double the size of the LC’s tiny trunk, ironically making the smaller coupe far more cargo-friendly.
Is the RC F Track Edition worth the money?
If you want the most hardcore RC F, yes, but it’s very expensive at nearly $100,000, which is LC money. It’s also too old, heavy and compromised, despite the improved specifications.
For comparisons of the features and specs of new and used Lexus coupes, have a look at our RC and LC reviews. We review the normal, convertible, and hybrid models separately.