“I DON'T BELIEVE YOU CAN GO WRONG PURCHASING A LEXUS (ITS A TOYOTA PRODUCT - YOU JUST PUT GAS AND OIL IN THEM, AND EVERY ONCE IN WHILE YOU BUY TIRES AND THEY JUST GO AND GO AN GO.)”
2017 Lexus RC: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2017 Lexus RC is a light-update year, led by standard Scout GPS Link smartphone-based navigation on regular RC models without factory navigation. Lexus also makes small styling changes to the regular coupe and gives the RC F a standard adaptive suspension.
About the 2017 Lexus RC
1st generation RC/RC F (2015-2018 before the 2019 refresh), third model year.
Lexus positions the RC as a bold luxury sport coupe with dramatic styling, a driver-focused cabin, and several levels of power to match different tastes. More than a razor-edged track car, the regular RC is aimed at buyers who want standout coupe design, a high-quality interior, and everyday comfort with Lexus craftsmanship and reliability. It separates itself from many rivals by leaning into grand-touring ease and visual drama, while still offering rear-drive or all-wheel-drive performance flavors.
The regular RC range stretches from the 241-hp turbocharged RC 200t to the 306-hp RC 350, with the 255-hp RC 300 serving as the all-wheel-drive choice. The RC F is the performance flagship, with a 467-hp V8, stronger Brembo brakes, a limited-slip rear differential, and a speed-activated rear wing.
What changed, by category
Tech
Scout GPS Link becomes standard on regular RC models with the 7-inch Lexus Display Audio system, providing smartphone-based navigation without the factory navigation system.
Styling
The RC 200t, RC 300, and RC 350 receive revised grille and wheel finishes.
Structural
The RC F gains a standard Linear Adaptive Variable Suspension to improve the balance between ride comfort and handling.
2017 Lexus RC specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 5.0 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 2.0L |
| Transmission | Auto, 8-Spd w/Direct Shift | Automatic, 6-Spd | Auto, 8-Spd w/Direct Shift | Auto, 8-Spd w/Direct Shift |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 19 mpg | 19 mpg | 22 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 25 mpg | 26 mpg | 28 mpg | 32 mpg |
| Horsepower | 467 hp | 255 hp | 306 hp | 241 hp |
| Torque | 389 lb-ft | 236 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 10.1 cu-ft | 10.4 cu-ft | 10.4 cu-ft | 10.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 27.3 in | 27.3 in | 27.3 in | 27.3 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Remote Control Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Leather Interior Trim | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Memory Front Seats | ||||
| Memory Steering Wheel | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2017 Lexus RC?
The biggest change is standard Scout GPS Link on regular 2017 RC models equipped with the 7-inch Display Audio system. It provides smartphone-based navigation in cars without the factory navigation system.
Was the 2017 Lexus RC redesigned?
No, the 2017 Lexus RC was not redesigned. It received modest technology and appearance updates while keeping the same basic design and powertrain lineup.
Did the 2017 Lexus RC get new engines?
No, the 2017 RC did not receive a major powertrain change. The regular lineup continued with a 241-hp turbo four-cylinder, a 255-hp V6 with all-wheel drive, and a 306-hp V6, while the RC F retained its 467-hp V8.
What changed on the 2017 Lexus RC F?
The 2017 RC F gains a standard Linear Adaptive Variable Suspension. Its 467-hp 5.0-liter V8, eight-speed automatic, Brembo brakes, limited-slip rear differential, and speed-activated rear wing continue.
Which 2017 Lexus RC has all-wheel drive?
The 2017 RC 300 is the all-wheel-drive model. It pairs full-time AWD with a 255-hp 3.5-liter V6 and a six-speed automatic transmission.
2017 Lexus RC Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2017 Lexus RC.
4.4
2017 Lexus RC
(92 reviews)
“It's a great vehicle, great performance machine, and worth the price. I'm excited everyday to drive it, and often take trips just to enjoy it more.”
“I wish the Lexus RC was equipped with an 8 cylinder engine, had rain-sensing wipers, a better sound system, delete the window-gap feature when opening/shutting doors, better tires, automatic opening/closing trunk, instrument panel visible in low-light conditions, a more secure gas-filling panel that opens from inside the cabin--not by pressing it from the outside etc., etc. I miss my Lexus LS 460!”
Sources
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2017 Lexus Rc Coupe Excites Luxury Sport Category
- lexus.com — Models / 2017 / MY17 RC Brochure
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2017 Lexus Rc F Track Breeding Meets Road Refinement
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2016 Lexus Rc Three Engines
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2015 Lexus Rc 350 Unforgettable Luxury
- lexus.com — Models / 2017 / MY17 Lexus RCF Brochure
- pressroom.lexus.com — Releases / 2016+Lexus+Rc+F+Track
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2015 Lexus Rc F Product News
- pressroom.lexus.com — Releases / 2018+Lexus+Rc+F+Designed+Luxury+Perf