It's definitely a great daily drive. Most of its negatives (mainly the weight and transmission) are what make it a great commuter. The weight gives the suspension some compliance, and though it's firm and does respond well it's not harsh and doesn't wear you out. I've driven it 9 hours on the highway and I felt fine at the end of it. The transmission at low speed is very smooth, and driving it around normally it certainly feels like a traditional Lexus. The V8 is just great. Sounds good, and gets the car off the line quickly. For all the rhetoric about DCTs (which BMW dropped for a torque converter in the new M4, by the way) the car still gets to 60mph in 4.5 seconds and it shifts fast enough under load. I've never driven my car and thought "it needs more power" or "it needs faster shifts". So I'd say if you're looking at a standard RC F, view it from this mindset: Lexus first, performance second. If you do that, then you won't be disappointed. I certainly agree with AMD about the track edition though. It's just too expensive and the weight saving doesn't justify the extra cost. The brakes on the regular F are already expensive enough, and knowing how much the CCs cost to replace is, quite frankly, a deal-breaker.
@@mattyb.5628 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds in C&D tests. The weight is a non-issue as even an M2 these days weighs 3800+ lbs, which is how much the TE weighs. RCF's weight of 3902 lbs is due to the very rigid chassis that has a lot of reinforcements. Having been on the track many times, RCF is a phenomenal double-duty car. I have an RCF CF/TVD. Both on the streets and the track. Also, as my videos shows, it is very quick and fun.
@@mattyb.5628 not to mention, with the carbon bits, you can get all of it on a regular F without the track pack. The only downside is that they're bundled with other stuff in the carbon package, and that's $17k(!). I wish they broke out the carbon parts and BBS wheels separately like they did with blowing out the IS handling pack recently - I'd jump in line to trade my IS350 now for a ~$75k RC-F, but $91k is a tough pill to swallow.
For me, its ease of service, reliability and efficiency. Everything fails eventually, so having something that can be repaired in my garage is a major plus, or reduced labor cost for a shop.
I bought my 2015 RCF performance pack with Carbon roof and TVD in early 2019 at a great price and I can proudly say that I am still in love with it in 2023. This Car only needs some small mods like catback exhaust which I already installed and now it sounds amazing. Lightweight wheels got them, so other rotation mass reduction bits. I drive it year-round from -30 C to +40 C. No issues whatsoever. Cheap to maintain. You can DIY everything. I changed 15 cars before this and I can finally say that I have found my unicorn and it puts a smile on my face every day. I will never get rid of it. It still turns heads. Exterior styling still looks 2024 fresh. it is timeless. It is aging beautifully. I have no desire to switch to any other car. The more I drive more I appreciate it and the more I understand why they designed the powertrain the the way they did. It takes time to understand that and once you get it you love it. It feels super solid all the time. It is a Landcruiser of cars. Built like a tank. Never skips a beat with no weird noises. I had ISF before it and had BMWs as well. No desire to switch this car with anything on the market.
@thecarcarenut - Fun fact on the hood vent - it is completely functional, and you're just seeing the rain tray on the inside of the hood 🙂. Remove the six clips at the track, and its completely open - put it back on for your drive home, and it keeps the water out of the engine bay.
After 9 months of research, UA-cam watching and test drives, I bought a used 2020, 13k mile, Atomic Silver RCF base model with red interior and the Torsen diff. I knew I’d be happy with my purchase, but after 3 months of ownership and 4,500 miles, I’m absolutely delighted with it! I recently took it on a 1500 mile trip and I was sad when it was over! It simply does everything well, with the surprise bonus of 28mpg on the highway. For me, the base RCF model is a way better choice over the track edition; as you very clearly pointed out in this video. There are only 3 minor features I would add or improve upon for the base model. 1. A little more exhaust note (easy to address with aftermarket cat-back offerings or a resonator delete) 2. A six speed manual (however I totally understand Lexus’ reasoning for going with an automatic but the 10 speed would be a better unit in this chassis) 3. Its heated seats are lukewarm at best. and finally, it should be 400 lbs lighter 🤣
2020 are the sweet spot you got all the internal additions and the better gear ratios for acceleration and lighter components. ( on the track its great out of turns with the newer ratios ) kudos! The 10 speed would overheat and actually be slower sadly but it would sound cooler lol
@@FAUNASO bud there are documents showing it’s slower in certain instances remember the 10 years where not done for strictly performance. And it’s not my opinion it’s a data thing it’s a bi-product of their design iteration of the trans at temp; also I’m glad we agree the trans does overheat because it’s a known thing you can’t run them in Sport+ for extended periods or it will go into limp mode. The LC of course was not designed for track abuse.
@@RandenMontalvo I would love to see those docs myself because every mention of the LC trans puts its shifting times faster than the RC F. I know for a fact that the downshifting has a better logic and it's faster on the LC, I have put nearly 25k miles on a 2015 RC F and on a 2020 RC F TE and have driven the LC plenty of times. As for the trans cooler, that's obvious, if Lexus was to put it on the RC F as he implied then a cooler would have to be installed, just like the RC F has. In fact, Lexus already has a trans cooler available in Japan for the 24 LC's that can be retrofitted and the parts are available online. Ultimately not an issue unless you are buying an LC for hardcore tracking lol and even you might only get issues if you do 3+ extended laps as per the reports.
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do at least one video on the beautiful Celica All Trac Turbo in the background! What an incredible specimen of an awesome car! I used to drive one from time to time (ex-girlfriends father's car) and it made me grin EVERY time! Loved that car.
I hate how many reviews talk about the "fake" hood vent, but miss the fact that they can unscrew the cover then you'll have a functional vent. They did that to protect the engine bay from water or dirt/dust and minimize that.
I almost write it down yet i am not the only one who said this, and yet.... i dont have that car.... How could the one who is walking around it, touching it, looking at it, say such thing ?
RCF is an amazing car that does not get the credit it deserves. The transmission is amazing if you drove it like you stole it in SPORT+ and MANUAL mode. It is only slow when you are puttering around on the streets. Have not driven the TE RCF, but the non-TE RCFs are already amazing cars that don't get enough credit especially how they have two personalities. One for the track and one for the road. I have driven a lot of F performance cars. ISF, RCF LSD, RCF TVD and LC500. Most recently, IS500. RCF strikes the best balance. It is the most aggressive out of all of these cars. ISF has a similar size as the RCF, but RCF is better in almost every way except it is heavier. However, on the track RCF feels the best.
It’s actually a great feature it puts the engine in the Atkinson cycle and you can literally drive home with zero engine note and save a lot of gas. Works great on the highway.
I like the way Toyota bothered taping over all the electric lines to dust proof. You'd see the plastic pipes containing the wires in a German car but when you get to the contact/ plug part, it's all uncovered and you can see the different colored wires. Small detail, but it goes a long way.
I love my 2020 RCF - The Track Edition is nice/rare but not sure its worth >$100K other than keeping as a collectors item. Fun fact - The RCF won the IMSA GTD Pro championship this year.
In my country Indonesia, it was sold for ~$300,000 new (because of 250% luxury sales tax) and because RCFs are so rare here, the used price is still strong around ~$200k, so my question is is RC F worth the money, or 981 Cayman base, a mid engine Porsche is a better deal for the asking price about ~$120-150k?
Of course not! LOL. The paddle shifters are the same tho.. which I find interesting. The engine is almost the same... Bored out slightly@@lancewood1410
I own a regular RCF and at the time I was purchasing it, there was an LC500. I opted for the RCF because I felt daily driving the LC500 made me feel old. Just me. Love my RCF and definitely attracts attention. I love and respect your opinion and review.
As a former ISF owner I actually like and enjoyed Lexus' F cars, that's what drew me into their F models in the first place. I like the idea of high performance + simplicity and usability where any ordinary person can change their own oil without exotic tools required. Out of all cars I've owned over the years, I miss the ISF the most. If I ever get a chance at another F model again I would go back to the ISF. Literally the same engine and transmission as the RCF but in a lighter vehicle.
RCF engine is a completely different engine than the ISF engine other than the bottom end block. Everything else was redesigned for RCF. None of the parts are swappable. Higher compression, higher redline, bigger throttle body, lighter internals etc. It is a lot more rev happy and revs higher.The chassis, suspension, TVD etc, all were developed extensively from the ground up on the track. Being an owner of the IS platform and the RCF platform, the RCF platform is on a different level with more than double the rigidity. Besides, the RCF has 12% more power 472 HP vs 416 HP, which is why all things being equal RCF is faster both in a straight line or on the track. It is 10 years newer so it should be and it is. The RCF TE did a Nurburgring lap time of 7:48 seconds with a regular non-pro driver and with traffic. The compelling case I agree for ISF is that, you can get it for much cheaper in the used market. It can than be used it towards the mods and end up building everything to your liking.
RCF is a completely different car with a different engine and a lot more power. Lexus put a, lot of effort into giving it a, lot of track hardware and the added weight is due to much higher chassis stiffness. The RCF TE actually weighs the same as the ISF at 3800 lbs. The non-TE RCF is the one that is 3900+ lbs.
I am happy for you. You must have modded your ISF and I would say keep it. For someone like me looking fresh as a starting point and had the budget for it, RCF offers a better platform as a starting point in almost every way.
Agreed with everything except I would pick RCF over the ISF all day. I have driven both on the track and RCF feels like a car where everything was designed to go fast around the track as the chassis, suspension, engine etc. all work in harmony with each other while ISF feels like the flimsy 2IS chassis with a transplanted monster V8 up front that is trying to go fast around the track, but feels too jiggly and unruly over bump stops etc.
That hood vent is not a flowing air vent per se, but heat extractors. Same things is on the 2015+ Mustangs. No good flowing pattern, but Ford call it heat extractors. It works by air being pulled out from the hood surface airflow (venturi effect), not by the positive airflow from the grill.
My wife and I have been extremely happy with our Toyotas and Lexus' over the last 20 years....I will be buying a used RCFTE.....they have never failed us...at all!!!
It’s not what you want anymore. It’s a political agenda from the government standpoint as far a MPG and other strict requirements that has the car manufacturers pulling their hairs I’m sure. Gonna miss the V8’s and V6’s. 😢
@@UpgradeUrWinRARTrial did he drive the car? It’s not a numbers car. It’s a soulful playful thing on the road and track. I’m in one now typing this lol… Definitely not arguing the price is tough for most people but 105k is tough for most anyone for any car. You simply won’t see another with 50 or less than 50 made 😄
😢😢After all these years I still want this over any of the competition. The design, power, longevity, and just pure quality alone still has me sold. Really wish Lexus just gave it the infotainment update it needed. Thanks for the informative video on this Gem 💎
I have one and dude you will love it ....notice he could not mention what technology is exactly being asked in terms of missing I find this interesting, I can tell you coming from M cars it has CarPlay which im unsure what other tech you would want as everything is voice activated lol. I have never felt iDrive had an extra feature other than screen size and hand gestures lol.
Mine is a "22" RC F. The infotainment ain't so bad; Apple Car Play, Android Auto, (although its a wired connection) Cloud Connected Navigation on a screen with decent resolution and Mark Levinson Audio (835 Watts/17 speakers). Also the car has blind spot 24:11 24:1 24:11 monitoring, lane departure warning (with auto correction if turned-on), adaptive-cruise control, pedestrian detection (cross-warning on the rear) automated braking, remote start via the key-fob and Lexus app. On the other hand, I'm kind of pissed they removed the memory seats, and ambient lighting. In case folks don't realize _ what is old is new again. I rather have semi-analog gauges as opposed to a full length "universal screen" wherein you are dead in the water - without climate, radio and/or Navigation if it fails. Think "Singer Porsche" retro mods are becoming increasingly desirable. A modern car with some analog features/functionality is where it's at. Nothing ages a car more than display screens anyway. Are there things Lexus could do better -certainly. We have an BMW S58 ///M vehicle in the household so I can truly enjoy the contrast. Also, shift manually in the RCF in Sport + @ 7100 - 7200 RPM people don't realize there is a difference. And in closing "The Car Care Nut" didn't mention that the RC F also has oil and Transmission coolers if one desires to venture to the track. Note : the RC F can fit 2 adults' comfortably in the back seats that are shorter than 6ft. I am 6ft 3' and my teenager who is about 5ft "6" does not complain. In comparison you "Can Not" fit anyone in the back of an LC500, The LC500 has absolutely limited trunk space and cabin space, barely a cup holder. For those who could afford an LC500, but need some practicality can find it in the RC F. Admittedly, the Track Edition is overpriced, but the base RC F with options presents a viable option. Decent looks, Legendary V8, Reliable, Rare, and holds it value. In closing it's still faster than the LC500 on track and in a straight line with the Aisin 8 speed in comparison. Judge for yourself not based on the commentary of others. Just because they say so, doesn't mean it is - juss say'n "Mike Drop"!
@@carfan5296 facts on facts when you don’t know you don’t know. The mechanical feel of this car is so wonderful to experience coming from the M world. Lexus really gave a treat here. I have no idea what technology people are taking about….hand gestures?
I want one. Good explanatory video on a great car with a great engine, very advanced at the time of release. Yes, they are so well made. Even a high mileage engine when pulled down showed it was still basically "brand new".
You didn’t mention that Yamaha helped design this engine! But great overall review. I’d take this over any high-end sports car because it’s super reliable. Thanks!
Lexus fanboy here. Buying this over a Z06 C7 is crazy, if your looking for specificly a sports car. Ive driven both after already having my heart set on buying the RCF.
Same had only M cars prior the TE stole me away something about the package is just special I think F cars in general are some of the most misunderstood cars out there mostly from folks that never lived with them or driven.
The RCF is my dream car. I don't see dated. I see 10 years of kaizen making it possibly the most refined car on the road. My life pretty much revolves around getting a new one before they're discontinued. In the meantime, I'm driving an 07 Solara Sport that I plan to restore and park next to my RCF. The Solara itself is so good I want to keep it the rest of my life alongside my Lexus collection.
I have a 2015 rc350 f-sport and I love it. I know it’s not the fastest car but that’s not the point. It’s a very beautiful more gt style car, it just eats miles and road trips in it are amazing even with the “bucket” style seats. I’ve gotten it to 150 mph before the speed limiter hit and it was just smooth and steady not sketchy feeling at all. Great car all around.
Being an owner of an RCF CF/TVD (MSRP $89K), RCF is totally worth every penny. Also, please keep in mind LC500 is a different car than the RCF. RCF is smaller, lighter, stiffer while LC500 is a GT car that is 400+ lbs more. You need to understand the transmission is amazing when you drive it on the race track full throttle in SPORT+ and MANUAL mode. Only when it is driven slow and sluggishly. TVD is an amazing piece of engineering that allows you to corner faster than with a plain LSD in the standard RCF. Makes the car feel so sharp and playful. It might not be best in class, but it is a great do-everything car. I know several RCF TE owners and they are happy with it. One RCF TE owner did a 7:48 lap time of Nurburgring as a non-pro, with traffic and on street tires. It actually is a very impressive feat. Can go to the track and run great lap times and still drive it on the streets. The high-revving V8 is also an absolute masterpiece to own.
RCF is an amazing car and the video poster is on crack for saying LC500 is better in every way than RCF. LOL are you kidding me? RCF is almost 1 second faster in a straight line. A full 1 second faster and around a track, RCF is meant to go fast around the track and LC500 is not.
2017 RCF owner here and I always look for your comments on all the F videos lol. You are probably the most knowledgeable about the RCF and a true enthusiast. I absolutely LOVE my car that I daily drive.
@@slappagon Thank you. There is a so much ignorance around the RCF. It is sometimes just astonishing as to how terribly skewed some of these reviewers get their talking points. Having owned this amazing car for 7+ years, I can see how the reviewers don't do their homework a lot of times (or just have biases like in this case with that false comparison with LC500).
@@edcain9492, That's what I was stating. Only I left out the douchebaggery of laughing and making fun of him. Or trying to. He's a great guy, and very knowledgeable. I trust him 100% in everything he has to say.
I couldn't be more happier with my regular RC300h. I think you don't get this engine in RC in America. Would love to have bought RCF, but that cost a looooot of money
If I didn't need more access to a backseat due to having small kids, I would absolutely put the non track version of the RC-F near the top of the list. It's pretty much the best muscle car of all time if what you want is dependability to go along with performance and build quality.
As an owner of a 2015 Lexus RC F Performance Package who uses it as a DD, I can 100% agree with you, the price is not worth it new. While Lexus gate-keeps availability of OEM Track Edition parts with egregious pricing, the aftermarket support for these additions are readily available. Additionally, will assist to surpass the performance of an OEM Track Edition. I understand why people want to pay the price for it though even if I cannot relate to it. But to me, it makes more sense to get a non-TE, and actually make it track ready. The LC500 is a different segment where it is top tier GT car. There is a bit of performance available with the RC F that the LC cannot touch. Side note, independent studies have confirmed that the hood vent is functional, but not in a pass through that one would think. There is a slot in the splash cover that causes for a vortex that extracts heat through negative pressure above. Love your channel and content. I learn a lot from it. I enjoyed this video as well. Take care!
Agreed he got some stuff wrong the vent is functional it’s just a rain guard it’s also tested in the airflow testing. His view on the LC is that way because he may have never actually driven these cars on the track. That’s the only way you make some of the mistakes he made a the oil coolers he omitted on the trans to know if the point of the brakes when stock brakes are an issue on get track is odd. Also odd that he’s stating these as bolt on parts of course you can remove every part of a M4GTS and put them in a standard F M car but the water injection system so unsure what the point is with that. Has a good tech reviewer but you can tell he has not driven these cars in their element and it shows.
@@vg3430 Lexus does have a press kit with their own lab aero testing and venting on the RCF that shows it’s functional as a heat vent and aero. The reviewer looking at the rain shield and thinking it’s not functional. Maybe he expects the water to fall directly on the motor?
The newer RC F from 2023 removed 4 point Chassis Shock tower bracing, Lexus Memory, Lexus Illuminated entry system. The latter are premium features of a Lexus and former is really essential for integrity and rigidity. IS 500 and IS 350 exhibit bumper sag and Chassis flex due to the lack of bracing. Its a shame they downgraded it. Also removed TVD from 2022 models and up.
I owned the 2015 model. Next yr will be 8yrs. Already at 119000km. So reliable except the common problem just happen. The amplifier. No sound sometimes.
I don’t understand the criticism with the transmission. It has some of the quickest shift out there. People confuse actual shift time, to the time it takes to shift after pulling the paddle. That’s a different thing. But the gearbox itself is very fast shifting.
when you said fake vent, it isn't. Pretty sure you can unpin the little plastic bit under the hood vent. Its there to prevent water when its rainy but you can take it off and the hood scoop will work.
The RCF track edition is artwork on wheels everywhere you look everything you touch everything is perfectly executed and done, and in carbon fiber, or some exquisite design it’s just a great car
@@KingDiamondBones 100k isnt alot of money for instance I went from M to this and it's been epic man. Love NA high revving V8s on the track so rewarding and a thing thats going away. You can always pick up a 60K M4CP with miles but I rather this and a E92 GTS etc these cars are more special in my view. A person buying this doesnt care about those comparable because they can afford those aswell. They chose these cars because their offering is a unique driving experience. I prefer driving this car than any M car I have driven sans a M8CP.
I'd have the LC 500 over the RC F track edition, it's my favourite car, BUT I GET what the RC F track edition is all about, TBH, i don't think it's a valid to compare the two. Very much a horses for courses scenario. I drive an IS 350, I would love the RC F or LC 500 ANY DAY..and even though the LC is my favourite, people I know who have driven them tell me the same thing, the RC is a more practical car, the size for starters is one thing, but the LC is pretty much an exotic car that draws lots of attention and for an everyday driver can be 'too much car'. The RC/RCF is a much more normal car you can enjoy everyday. As for the LC 500 being better than the RC F Track Edition in "every way", somehow I think as a track car (as the name suggests) the RC F track edition will be quite a bit better in that respect. For some people, the motorsport look, feel & mission of the RC F is more attractive proposition than the luxo look of the LC. PS on the 'old technology' being a 'drawback' As A Lexus owner, I LOVE the 'old schoolness' of the RC and IS ranges. I'm 50, and for me, the lack of all the silly tech is the APPEAL of this car! I don't need a giant 14 inch monitor and the car beeping and gonging everytime it enters a new speed zone, yuck!. This is indeed a Japense muscle car, the RC F is Japan's Ford MUSTANG..but with really really good build quality and attention to detail. I don't care if an NX can park itself and can keep you centred in a lane with constant corrections of the steering wheel. The RC F is amied at people like ME and in that it is way better than a BMW with two Ipad screens (which by the way, like to break and cost a fortune to replace).
I owned an ISF. I kinda disagree about the transmission. It might not have the fastest shift compare to a newer performance transmissions like ZF8 from the mk5 supra but its fast enough already for its engine power and durable as well. With this car tuned whether NA or with an aftermarket supercharged, its gonna be beast on the straight line and on the track!
I actually own a 2is350 which is the lightest of the bunch even lighter than a RC 350 lighter than a brand new IS350 and I have modified it in several ways and it's quick. It is important to know that r&r racing actually does make a supercharger kit with an intercooler for both the RC models and the IS models even the ISF and RCF
Problem with LC500 is that they are not close ratio 10 speed you are hoping for, they are still similar tallish gears and top 4 gears are for cruising.
My buddy has an RCF with an exhaust and Öhlins coilovers. The car is phenomenal sounding and driving. He put over 50,000 miles on it the first year he had it cause he loves driving it so much lol. The only issues he’s had is the coolant line that runs under the intake manifold went bad and his hydraulic spoiler stopped working. Other than that it’s been reliable for him. Truly amazing cars would love to have one if they weren’t so expensive
They are pricey Lexus cannot scale like other brands but if you look around everyone else in the M4 range is pricy also. These are not cheap cars news by design of course but Toyota has the 86 line for a more cost effective entry into the GR world....which F cars are a bi product of GRs efforts etc.
@@RandenMontalvo These cars are just overpriced fanboy turds. They aren't fast, they don't have manual options, they can't really be modded, they aren't super reliable and they are expensive to work on and fix. You just have to be a lexus fanboy to want this crap.
Because the one who buys this wants a perfect car to take you to the track, go fast reliably, enjoy the V8 with great stopping power and then drive home. The LC could not do that - because it just wasn‘t engineered for that, but the RCF yes. I agree on the price, which is just too high. But other Manufacturers do the same mistakes too, just look at the Mercedes SL63. I would opt for a used Track Edition, in my humble opinion.
Great and true review…as always:)! What a wonderful playful car. My experience with this vehicle after 4 years of ownership, living with this car and literally driving it like it was intended to be driven was amazing. Sold it and almost cried and deeply regret letting it go…
I think he forgot that he is reviewing the TRACK EDITION and as such comments like "if you take it to the track" is nonsense. The review of this track edition should be done with the assumption that the owner does track the car on almost every weekend possible. Comments like "you dont need ceramic breaks" are dumb.
You sounded quite clueless saying "LC500 is better in every way" Ahh NO! They are apples to oranges since LC500 is a pure GT car. RCF is a proper performance car. Big difference. LC500 does not like the track at all. RCF annihilates the LC500 in a straight line race. You want to see a video of an RCF putting bus lengths on the LC500? Not even close. LC500 is a 4500 lbs GT car with a soft suspension and without the hardware on the race track. RCF weighs 400+ lbs less with a stiffer chassis, more cooling, more aggressive suspension and a much better power to weight ratio since it is a much smaller and lighter car.
I just bought RC-F simply because my kids can fit comfortably in the back, using child seats :D i want them to know what v8 is and how much fun you can have with this car. They love it
13:11 ‘sometimes’ these heavy components are intentional to balance weight distribution from front to back to avoid oversteer/understeer (this is a general comment regarding track cars, not specific to Toyota/Lexus)
Great honest review. Let’s get the details on that red Celica! A friend of mine drove me to high school for 2 years in one just like that. I would love to see a detailed video on it.
The track edition is just not worth it. I would rather have the regular RC F with the performance/carbon package over the track edition. You get heated/cooled seats that are all leather and more durable. With the money saved you can add intake, headers, and exhaust. While the spoiler on the track edition is beautifully done, especially the F logo, it's way over done to me. For those tracking the car all the time, then it makes sense. For the street use I would be using it for, it will just attract attention and unfortunately the RC F doesn't have the power to back up that spoiler on the street. Plus, the retractable carbon fiber spoiler looks awesome. The interior is a nice mix of some modern with old school, but it looks great. The 2-tone black with red accents looks amazing, the seats look amazing, I'm sure the quality is all there. As for the LC 500...that's just a gorgeous car inside and out. Why look at the RC F instead? It is lighter by about 400 lbs, should be livelier as far as handling, and has an oil cooler and transmission cooler. It's a shame Lexus didn't get the RC F to around 3600 lbs and LC 500 to 3800 lbs.
Please review the LC sometime in the future, super interested! Such a special car, would really love to hear from you, from a true mechanics’ perspective 😊
In a world where all companies purposely make their car unreliable to profit off itat their dealers, you just cannot hate lexus. Reliable, old school v8s, whats not to love
To 99% of people who see it on the street, this car looks like it was modded with Autozone parts. The wing is so ridiculous, it would make people think the brake calipers are the fake shells that attach to the real ones to give the illusion of large fixed calipers for high performance. All of the things that are on this should have just been stand alone options on the RCF. Most people will never track it and just crawl in city traffic or set the cruise on the interstate for long trips. All that said, you have to appreciate Toyota for still producing this car when the market is so limited. For the same money, the better car was a BMW M4 before they went and ruined the styling in 2021. People who buy these new do not really keep them after the warranty had ended so the additional repairs a BMW needs are not a factor.
Thanks for the firsthand information that you give to us both customers and technicians. i am Ugandan- East Africa wholeheartedly thanking you for the details of whatever you land on.
I’ve daily driven my RCF for 4 years. Total agree with all your comments. The engine is faultless but for a top of the tree performance/ luxury, its lacking in tech and quality. Rattling windows in doors, cracked dash, peeling leather seats, moon roof rattles, failed front shock and horrendously expensive dealer brakes.
What tech gesture control? Never ever heard a rattle in my F or anyones F unless they have removed panels. Always get confused at what folks mean with "tech" Apple CarPlay check all voice activated what do you mean by tech a bigger screen?
@@RandenMontalvo Gesture control, 360 camera in 4K, tablets everywhere, wireless phone chargers, LED's everywhere, HUD, video games, wireless apple and android. Futuristic technology lol.
@@salimrandall hahaha not even a new G80 has that lol That’s a Tesla. lol I never got into my F car and said it needs new tech lol odd. And I’m coming from iDrive 8. The only way I can see the “tech” argument is if you’re coming from a Tesla but from a German car zero clue. Tesla’s obviously lead the industry with tech but Porsche , BMW Lexus beyond dynamic lighting are really kinda all in line once you have voice activated CarPlay.
Curious…has the CCN ever actually “tracked” one of these or any other car before? While he is a phenomenal mechanic, not sure he is qualified to render a verdict on any true performance car. After all, he states the hood vent is non-functional which is incorrect. The rain guard should be removed for track use and kept in place for daily driving.
Sweet ride. If these cars weren't over $65k(base) USD I would probably consider one - I rather a manual supra🙂. I don't think service is difficult on that engine, but the oil filter sitting right on top of the engine would have been sweeter(less mess since it drains, too). Accessing filters under the car can be a huge pain if you don't have a hoist or quickjacks. As far as oil changes go, I really appreciate top mount oil filters. Edit: OEM $15000 brakes on a -$65-$70k- $100k car?!?! What the heck was Toyota thinking??
When I see "Track Edition", I'm expecting no rear seats, no eco mode, seat belt harness, no HVAC, some kind of roll bar, less sound deadening, bare trunk, and a lot less weight. This isn't it. This is just marketing
It'd be slowed down and kill its weight distribution. Plus the engine in the car as is already makes about the same amount of torque stock as the V8 so there's not really a point in putting it in the supra when they're already pretty close in performance,along with tuning being far more superior in the i6s case than the V8s.
When AMD says, “But that’s okay” it’s a euphemism for “What were they thinking!”
" read between the lines fool"
I would be super happy to own regular RCF. And I wouldn't track it. Just for daily driving. Design is great, looks timeless to me.
It's definitely a great daily drive. Most of its negatives (mainly the weight and transmission) are what make it a great commuter. The weight gives the suspension some compliance, and though it's firm and does respond well it's not harsh and doesn't wear you out. I've driven it 9 hours on the highway and I felt fine at the end of it. The transmission at low speed is very smooth, and driving it around normally it certainly feels like a traditional Lexus.
The V8 is just great. Sounds good, and gets the car off the line quickly. For all the rhetoric about DCTs (which BMW dropped for a torque converter in the new M4, by the way) the car still gets to 60mph in 4.5 seconds and it shifts fast enough under load. I've never driven my car and thought "it needs more power" or "it needs faster shifts".
So I'd say if you're looking at a standard RC F, view it from this mindset: Lexus first, performance second. If you do that, then you won't be disappointed. I certainly agree with AMD about the track edition though. It's just too expensive and the weight saving doesn't justify the extra cost. The brakes on the regular F are already expensive enough, and knowing how much the CCs cost to replace is, quite frankly, a deal-breaker.
May not be as fast as a BMW M5 but I guarantee you'll spend more time driving your RCF and less time in the shop compared to an M5
@@mattyb.5628 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds in C&D tests. The weight is a non-issue as even an M2 these days weighs 3800+ lbs, which is how much the TE weighs. RCF's weight of 3902 lbs is due to the very rigid chassis that has a lot of reinforcements. Having been on the track many times, RCF is a phenomenal double-duty car. I have an RCF CF/TVD. Both on the streets and the track. Also, as my videos shows, it is very quick and fun.
Their beautiful machines and the duel track use is epic man.
@@mattyb.5628 not to mention, with the carbon bits, you can get all of it on a regular F without the track pack. The only downside is that they're bundled with other stuff in the carbon package, and that's $17k(!). I wish they broke out the carbon parts and BBS wheels separately like they did with blowing out the IS handling pack recently - I'd jump in line to trade my IS350 now for a ~$75k RC-F, but $91k is a tough pill to swallow.
The three things most important in a car for me are reliability, reliability, and reliability.
Lexas,Lexas,Lexas
For me, its ease of service, reliability and efficiency. Everything fails eventually, so having something that can be repaired in my garage is a major plus, or reduced labor cost for a shop.
yep, I got a 4runner. May do a lexus at some point
The price also is important
The four things I wish don’t exist anymore are German cars, British cars, Korean cars and electric cars.
I bought my 2015 RCF performance pack with Carbon roof and TVD in early 2019 at a great price and I can proudly say that I am still in love with it in 2023. This Car only needs some small mods like catback exhaust which I already installed and now it sounds amazing. Lightweight wheels got them, so other rotation mass reduction bits. I drive it year-round from -30 C to +40 C. No issues whatsoever. Cheap to maintain. You can DIY everything. I changed 15 cars before this and I can finally say that I have found my unicorn and it puts a smile on my face every day. I will never get rid of it. It still turns heads. Exterior styling still looks 2024 fresh. it is timeless. It is aging beautifully. I have no desire to switch to any other car. The more I drive more I appreciate it and the more I understand why they designed the powertrain the the way they did. It takes time to understand that and once you get it you love it. It feels super solid all the time. It is a Landcruiser of cars. Built like a tank. Never skips a beat with no weird noises. I had ISF before it and had BMWs as well. No desire to switch this car with anything on the market.
great comment!
Awesome bro
Check out RR racing. They have a few ways to make more power.
@thecarcarenut - Fun fact on the hood vent - it is completely functional, and you're just seeing the rain tray on the inside of the hood 🙂. Remove the six clips at the track, and its completely open - put it back on for your drive home, and it keeps the water out of the engine bay.
I figured that was the case.
After 9 months of research, UA-cam watching and test drives, I bought a used 2020, 13k mile, Atomic Silver RCF base model with red interior and the Torsen diff. I knew I’d be happy with my purchase, but after 3 months of ownership and 4,500 miles, I’m absolutely delighted with it! I recently took it on a 1500 mile trip and I was sad when it was over! It simply does everything well, with the surprise bonus of 28mpg on the highway. For me, the base RCF model is a way better choice over the track edition; as you very clearly pointed out in this video.
There are only 3 minor features I would add or improve upon for the base model.
1. A little more exhaust note (easy to address with aftermarket cat-back offerings or a resonator delete)
2. A six speed manual (however I totally understand Lexus’ reasoning for going with an automatic but the 10 speed would be a better unit in this chassis)
3. Its heated seats are lukewarm at best.
and finally, it should be 400 lbs lighter 🤣
2020 are the sweet spot you got all the internal additions and the better gear ratios for acceleration and lighter components. ( on the track its great out of turns with the newer ratios ) kudos! The 10 speed would overheat and actually be slower sadly but it would sound cooler lol
Awesome! congratulations...maybe the driver can lose a few pounds?😜
@@RandenMontalvoThe 10 speed is not slower nor would it overheat if Lexus simply added a trans cooler like they did to the 8speed iirc
@@FAUNASO bud there are documents showing it’s slower in certain instances remember the 10 years where not done for strictly performance. And it’s not my opinion it’s a data thing it’s a bi-product of their design iteration of the trans at temp; also I’m glad we agree the trans does overheat because it’s a known thing you can’t run them in Sport+ for extended periods or it will go into limp mode. The LC of course was not designed for track abuse.
@@RandenMontalvo I would love to see those docs myself because every mention of the LC trans puts its shifting times faster than the RC F. I know for a fact that the downshifting has a better logic and it's faster on the LC, I have put nearly 25k miles on a 2015 RC F and on a 2020 RC F TE and have driven the LC plenty of times.
As for the trans cooler, that's obvious, if Lexus was to put it on the RC F as he implied then a cooler would have to be installed, just like the RC F has. In fact, Lexus already has a trans cooler available in Japan for the 24 LC's that can be retrofitted and the parts are available online.
Ultimately not an issue unless you are buying an LC for hardcore tracking lol and even you might only get issues if you do 3+ extended laps as per the reports.
Toyota and Lexus are the only car I trust for reliability and good resale value.
Not Dodge??? 🤣
Old technology is great, a selling point to me and many. Give it a manual shift, and you've got a winner.
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do at least one video on the beautiful Celica All Trac Turbo in the background! What an incredible specimen of an awesome car! I used to drive one from time to time (ex-girlfriends father's car) and it made me grin EVERY time! Loved that car.
I hate how many reviews talk about the "fake" hood vent, but miss the fact that they can unscrew the cover then you'll have a functional vent. They did that to protect the engine bay from water or dirt/dust and minimize that.
I almost write it down yet i am not the only one who said this, and yet.... i dont have that car....
How could the one who is walking around it, touching it, looking at it, say such thing ?
RCF is an amazing car that does not get the credit it deserves. The transmission is amazing if you drove it like you stole it in SPORT+ and MANUAL mode. It is only slow when you are puttering around on the streets. Have not driven the TE RCF, but the non-TE RCFs are already amazing cars that don't get enough credit especially how they have two personalities. One for the track and one for the road. I have driven a lot of F performance cars. ISF, RCF LSD, RCF TVD and LC500. Most recently, IS500. RCF strikes the best balance. It is the most aggressive out of all of these cars. ISF has a similar size as the RCF, but RCF is better in almost every way except it is heavier. However, on the track RCF feels the best.
his face and reaction is priceless when he's talking about eco mode in this performance beast. complete WTF moment... love it.
It’s actually a great feature it puts the engine in the Atkinson cycle and you can literally drive home with zero engine note and save a lot of gas. Works great on the highway.
I like the way Toyota bothered taping over all the electric lines to dust proof. You'd see the plastic pipes containing the wires in a German car but when you get to the contact/ plug part, it's all uncovered and you can see the different colored wires. Small detail, but it goes a long way.
I love my 2020 RCF - The Track Edition is nice/rare but not sure its worth >$100K other than keeping as a collectors item. Fun fact - The RCF won the IMSA GTD Pro championship this year.
Yup.. and the Track Edition got input from the RC F GT3 car
Fun fact, that winning car's front suspension has nothing in common with the showroom model hehe.
@@lancewood1410 I mean they are race cars lol
In my country Indonesia, it was sold for ~$300,000 new (because of 250% luxury sales tax) and because RCFs are so rare here, the used price is still strong around ~$200k, so my question is is RC F worth the money, or 981 Cayman base, a mid engine Porsche is a better deal for the asking price about ~$120-150k?
Of course not! LOL. The paddle shifters are the same tho.. which I find interesting. The engine is almost the same... Bored out slightly@@lancewood1410
I own a regular RCF and at the time I was purchasing it, there was an LC500. I opted for the RCF because I felt daily driving the LC500 made me feel old. Just me. Love my RCF and definitely attracts attention. I love and respect your opinion and review.
As a former ISF owner I actually like and enjoyed Lexus' F cars, that's what drew me into their F models in the first place. I like the idea of high performance + simplicity and usability where any ordinary person can change their own oil without exotic tools required. Out of all cars I've owned over the years, I miss the ISF the most. If I ever get a chance at another F model again I would go back to the ISF. Literally the same engine and transmission as the RCF but in a lighter vehicle.
RCF engine is a completely different engine than the ISF engine other than the bottom end block. Everything else was redesigned for RCF. None of the parts are swappable. Higher compression, higher redline, bigger throttle body, lighter internals etc. It is a lot more rev happy and revs higher.The chassis, suspension, TVD etc, all were developed extensively from the ground up on the track. Being an owner of the IS platform and the RCF platform, the RCF platform is on a different level with more than double the rigidity. Besides, the RCF has 12% more power 472 HP vs 416 HP, which is why all things being equal RCF is faster both in a straight line or on the track. It is 10 years newer so it should be and it is. The RCF TE did a Nurburgring lap time of 7:48 seconds with a regular non-pro driver and with traffic. The compelling case I agree for ISF is that, you can get it for much cheaper in the used market. It can than be used it towards the mods and end up building everything to your liking.
IS500 is the answer for your next car
RCF is a completely different car with a different engine and a lot more power. Lexus put a, lot of effort into giving it a, lot of track hardware and the added weight is due to much higher chassis stiffness. The RCF TE actually weighs the same as the ISF at 3800 lbs. The non-TE RCF is the one that is 3900+ lbs.
I am happy for you. You must have modded your ISF and I would say keep it. For someone like me looking fresh as a starting point and had the budget for it, RCF offers a better platform as a starting point in almost every way.
Agreed with everything except I would pick RCF over the ISF all day. I have driven both on the track and RCF feels like a car where everything was designed to go fast around the track as the chassis, suspension, engine etc. all work in harmony with each other while ISF feels like the flimsy 2IS chassis with a transplanted monster V8 up front that is trying to go fast around the track, but feels too jiggly and unruly over bump stops etc.
You are simply the best at unbiased and extremely in depth informative car reviews
I see that red Celica All-Trac in the background! My dream car from the 1990's! Can't wait to see you do a video on it :)
After watching several of your videos, I have decided you are the Patrick Bet-David of auto mechanics. I love your delivery, and ethical standards.
That hood vent is not a flowing air vent per se, but heat extractors.
Same things is on the 2015+ Mustangs. No good flowing pattern, but Ford call it heat extractors. It works by air being pulled out from the hood surface airflow (venturi effect), not by the positive airflow from the grill.
My wife and I have been extremely happy with our Toyotas and Lexus' over the last 20 years....I will be buying a used RCFTE.....they have never failed us...at all!!!
Shame there isn't as much support from naturally aspirated enthusiasts as there should be.
I am a huge fan. Not necessarily built by Lexus.. loved the mid 2000s BMW M3, MB C Class amg, Audi S4 wagon.. with a clutch!
It’s not what you want anymore. It’s a political agenda from the government standpoint as far a MPG and other strict requirements that has the car manufacturers pulling their hairs I’m sure. Gonna miss the V8’s and V6’s. 😢
this review was very disappointing. Instead if applauding the car it’s like he’s mad it’s here lol. Guess we wants us in EV crossovers soon ☹️
@@MikeForsythe probably because AMD knows Toyota/Lexus can and should have done better, especially for the price
@@UpgradeUrWinRARTrial did he drive the car? It’s not a numbers car. It’s a soulful playful thing on the road and track.
I’m in one now typing this lol…
Definitely not arguing the price is tough for most people but 105k is tough for most anyone for any car. You simply won’t see another with 50 or less than 50 made 😄
Keep these reviews coming. Love this channel.
😢😢After all these years I still want this over any of the competition. The design, power, longevity, and just pure quality alone still has me sold. Really wish Lexus just gave it the infotainment update it needed. Thanks for the informative video on this Gem 💎
I have one and dude you will love it ....notice he could not mention what technology is exactly being asked in terms of missing I find this interesting, I can tell you coming from M cars it has CarPlay which im unsure what other tech you would want as everything is voice activated lol. I have never felt iDrive had an extra feature other than screen size and hand gestures lol.
Mine is a "22" RC F. The infotainment ain't so bad; Apple Car Play, Android Auto, (although its a wired connection) Cloud Connected Navigation on a screen with decent resolution and Mark Levinson Audio (835 Watts/17 speakers). Also the car has blind spot 24:11 24:1 24:11 monitoring, lane departure warning (with auto correction if turned-on), adaptive-cruise control, pedestrian detection (cross-warning on the rear) automated braking, remote start via the key-fob and Lexus app. On the other hand, I'm kind of pissed they removed the memory seats, and ambient lighting. In case folks don't realize _ what is old is new again. I rather have semi-analog gauges as opposed to a full length "universal screen" wherein you are dead in the water - without climate, radio and/or Navigation if it fails. Think "Singer Porsche" retro mods are becoming increasingly desirable. A modern car with some analog features/functionality is where it's at. Nothing ages a car more than display screens anyway. Are there things Lexus could do better -certainly. We have an BMW S58 ///M vehicle in the household so I can truly enjoy the contrast. Also, shift manually in the RCF in Sport + @ 7100 - 7200 RPM people don't realize there is a difference. And in closing "The Car Care Nut" didn't mention that the RC F also has oil and Transmission coolers if one desires to venture to the track. Note : the RC F can fit 2 adults' comfortably in the back seats that are shorter than 6ft. I am 6ft 3' and my teenager who is about 5ft "6" does not complain. In comparison you "Can Not" fit anyone in the back of an LC500, The LC500 has absolutely limited trunk space and cabin space, barely a cup holder. For those who could afford an LC500, but need some practicality can find it in the RC F. Admittedly, the Track Edition is overpriced, but the base RC F with options presents a viable option. Decent looks, Legendary V8, Reliable, Rare, and holds it value. In closing it's still faster than the LC500 on track and in a straight line with the Aisin 8 speed in comparison. Judge for yourself not based on the commentary of others. Just because they say so, doesn't mean it is - juss say'n "Mike Drop"!
@@carfan5296 facts on facts when you don’t know you don’t know. The mechanical feel of this car is so wonderful to experience coming from the M world. Lexus really gave a treat here. I have no idea what technology people are taking about….hand gestures?
the 2023s have a touchscreen now and apple carplay/android auto, what else would it need?
Had this car in the spring. LOVELY TO DRIVE. Not worth the money.
This has to be the most accurate review I have found in youtube, i'm searching to buy a RFC 2015-2017 and i'm glad i landed here
I want one. Good explanatory video on a great car with a great engine, very advanced at the time of release. Yes, they are so well made. Even a high mileage engine when pulled down showed it was still basically "brand new".
You didn’t mention that Yamaha helped design this engine! But great overall review. I’d take this over any high-end sports car because it’s super reliable. Thanks!
Lexus fanboy here. Buying this over a Z06 C7 is crazy, if your looking for specificly a sports car. Ive driven both after already having my heart set on buying the RCF.
I've got the IS500 & test drove a 2022 CPO RCF. Phenomenal coupe & priced at $68k but can't let go of the sedan just yet.
I talked to guy who owned a lot of BMW's, he said this track version is very underated car. He absolutely loved this car.
Same had only M cars prior the TE stole me away something about the package is just special I think F cars in general are some of the most misunderstood cars out there mostly from folks that never lived with them or driven.
The RCF is my dream car. I don't see dated. I see 10 years of kaizen making it possibly the most refined car on the road. My life pretty much revolves around getting a new one before they're discontinued. In the meantime, I'm driving an 07 Solara Sport that I plan to restore and park next to my RCF. The Solara itself is so good I want to keep it the rest of my life alongside my Lexus collection.
I have a 2015 rc350 f-sport and I love it. I know it’s not the fastest car but that’s not the point. It’s a very beautiful more gt style car, it just eats miles and road trips in it are amazing even with the “bucket” style seats. I’ve gotten it to 150 mph before the speed limiter hit and it was just smooth and steady not sketchy feeling at all. Great car all around.
beautiful ride man!
@@RandenMontalvo Thank you!
Where did you hit 150 mph?
@@kurtbeck5809 Mexico
@TheCarCareNut Your camera work is IMMACULATE! who is filming you and editing?
My RCF is my daily and it sits at 178k miles and counting. Amazing cars! Have a ‘14 ISF too :)
What year is your rcf
@@jerm_ 2015
Being an owner of an RCF CF/TVD (MSRP $89K), RCF is totally worth every penny. Also, please keep in mind LC500 is a different car than the RCF. RCF is smaller, lighter, stiffer while LC500 is a GT car that is 400+ lbs more. You need to understand the transmission is amazing when you drive it on the race track full throttle in SPORT+ and MANUAL mode. Only when it is driven slow and sluggishly. TVD is an amazing piece of engineering that allows you to corner faster than with a plain LSD in the standard RCF. Makes the car feel so sharp and playful. It might not be best in class, but it is a great do-everything car. I know several RCF TE owners and they are happy with it. One RCF TE owner did a 7:48 lap time of Nurburgring as a non-pro, with traffic and on street tires. It actually is a very impressive feat. Can go to the track and run great lap times and still drive it on the streets. The high-revving V8 is also an absolute masterpiece to own.
Bought my sister's house in 2010 for 89k it's worth a lot more now. What would a 2010 rcf go for today? Oh wait, nvm...
@@jaycarl1562 LOL...true. Cannot disagree with you on that
RCF is an amazing car and the video poster is on crack for saying LC500 is better in every way than RCF. LOL are you kidding me? RCF is almost 1 second faster in a straight line. A full 1 second faster and around a track, RCF is meant to go fast around the track and LC500 is not.
2017 RCF owner here and I always look for your comments on all the F videos lol. You are probably the most knowledgeable about the RCF and a true enthusiast. I absolutely LOVE my car that I daily drive.
@@slappagon Thank you. There is a so much ignorance around the RCF. It is sometimes just astonishing as to how terribly skewed some of these reviewers get their talking points. Having owned this amazing car for 7+ years, I can see how the reviewers don't do their homework a lot of times (or just have biases like in this case with that false comparison with LC500).
Fell in love with mine day one and have been waiting for you to put a video out for an rcf video. Always looking forward to any content you put out!!
Performance and ECO mode should also change the performance of the steering.
It Already Does,This Guy missed that & evidently hasn't even driven one.Lol
@@edcain9492, That's what I was stating. Only I left out the douchebaggery of laughing and making fun of him. Or trying to.
He's a great guy, and very knowledgeable.
I trust him 100% in everything he has to say.
I couldn't be more happier with my regular RC300h. I think you don't get this engine in RC in America. Would love to have bought RCF, but that cost a looooot of money
We only got the RC200t ( now RC300) 4-cylinder turbo, RC350 V-6 and RC-F V-8 in the US
If I didn't need more access to a backseat due to having small kids, I would absolutely put the non track version of the RC-F near the top of the list. It's pretty much the best muscle car of all time if what you want is dependability to go along with performance and build quality.
The backseats can actually fit medium adults quite decently, children and child seats shouldn't be an issue for most.
As an owner of a 2015 Lexus RC F Performance Package who uses it as a DD, I can 100% agree with you, the price is not worth it new. While Lexus gate-keeps availability of OEM Track Edition parts with egregious pricing, the aftermarket support for these additions are readily available. Additionally, will assist to surpass the performance of an OEM Track Edition.
I understand why people want to pay the price for it though even if I cannot relate to it. But to me, it makes more sense to get a non-TE, and actually make it track ready.
The LC500 is a different segment where it is top tier GT car. There is a bit of performance available with the RC F that the LC cannot touch.
Side note, independent studies have confirmed that the hood vent is functional, but not in a pass through that one would think. There is a slot in the splash cover that causes for a vortex that extracts heat through negative pressure above.
Love your channel and content. I learn a lot from it. I enjoyed this video as well. Take care!
Agreed he got some stuff wrong the vent is functional it’s just a rain guard it’s also tested in the airflow testing. His view on the LC is that way because he may have never actually driven these cars on the track. That’s the only way you make some of the mistakes he made a the oil coolers he omitted on the trans to know if the point of the brakes when stock brakes are an issue on get track is odd. Also odd that he’s stating these as bolt on parts of course you can remove every part of a M4GTS and put them in a standard F M car but the water injection system so unsure what the point is with that. Has a good tech reviewer but you can tell he has not driven these cars in their element and it shows.
“Independent studies”???? Please give a reference
@@vg3430 Lexus does have a press kit with their own lab aero testing and venting on the RCF that shows it’s functional as a heat vent and aero. The reviewer looking at the rain shield and thinking it’s not functional. Maybe he expects the water to fall directly on the motor?
This is such a top notch car channel and the presenter was born for this.
The newer RC F from 2023 removed 4 point Chassis Shock tower bracing, Lexus Memory, Lexus Illuminated entry system. The latter are premium features of a Lexus and former is really essential for integrity and rigidity. IS 500 and IS 350 exhibit bumper sag and Chassis flex due to the lack of bracing. Its a shame they downgraded it. Also removed TVD from 2022 models and up.
I owned the 2015 model. Next yr will be 8yrs. Already at 119000km. So reliable except the common problem just happen. The amplifier. No sound sometimes.
I love it when the CCN goes into a high-pitched whine (trouble has been detected) and ends with "But that's ok".
I don’t understand the criticism with the transmission. It has some of the quickest shift out there. People confuse actual shift time, to the time it takes to shift after pulling the paddle.
That’s a different thing. But the gearbox itself is very fast shifting.
when you said fake vent, it isn't. Pretty sure you can unpin the little plastic bit under the hood vent. Its there to prevent water when its rainy but you can take it off and the hood scoop will work.
The RCF track edition is artwork on wheels everywhere you look everything you touch everything is perfectly executed and done, and in carbon fiber, or some exquisite design it’s just a great car
It's a gem indeed.
For 60k yes for 100k pffft
@@KingDiamondBones I see no issue with price considering its catagorey. It's obviously for those who dont see an issue with that kind of spending.
@@RandenMontalvo for 100k might as well get a m3 comp x drive or a Cadillac ctv black wing
@@KingDiamondBones 100k isnt alot of money for instance I went from M to this and it's been epic man. Love NA high revving V8s on the track so rewarding and a thing thats going away. You can always pick up a 60K M4CP with miles but I rather this and a E92 GTS etc these cars are more special in my view. A person buying this doesnt care about those comparable because they can afford those aswell. They chose these cars because their offering is a unique driving experience. I prefer driving this car than any M car I have driven sans a M8CP.
It is such a great car to own and drive! -coming from an RCF owner
I'd have the LC 500 over the RC F track edition, it's my favourite car, BUT I GET what the RC F track edition is all about, TBH, i don't think it's a valid to compare the two. Very much a horses for courses scenario. I drive an IS 350, I would love the RC F or LC 500 ANY DAY..and even though the LC is my favourite, people I know who have driven them tell me the same thing, the RC is a more practical car, the size for starters is one thing, but the LC is pretty much an exotic car that draws lots of attention and for an everyday driver can be 'too much car'.
The RC/RCF is a much more normal car you can enjoy everyday. As for the LC 500 being better than the RC F Track Edition in "every way", somehow I think as a track car (as the name suggests) the RC F track edition will be quite a bit better in that respect. For some people, the motorsport look, feel & mission of the RC F is more attractive proposition than the luxo look of the LC.
PS on the 'old technology' being a 'drawback' As A Lexus owner, I LOVE the 'old schoolness' of the RC and IS ranges. I'm 50, and for me, the lack of all the silly tech is the APPEAL of this car! I don't need a giant 14 inch monitor and the car beeping and gonging everytime it enters a new speed zone, yuck!. This is indeed a Japense muscle car, the RC F is Japan's Ford MUSTANG..but with really really good build quality and attention to detail. I don't care if an NX can park itself and can keep you centred in a lane with constant corrections of the steering wheel. The RC F is amied at people like ME and in that it is way better than a BMW with two Ipad screens (which by the way, like to break and cost a fortune to replace).
Yes and no, depends on your advice 😀 thanks for the video and advice 👋👍🙂
Their is an elegant violence about the way that thing sounds when you rev it
What a beautiful car. Its also a track monster from what I've seen. They are used for GT3 racing,
And Winning at that 🏆
I owned an ISF. I kinda disagree about the transmission. It might not have the fastest shift compare to a newer performance transmissions like ZF8 from the mk5 supra but its fast enough already for its engine power and durable as well. With this car tuned whether NA or with an aftermarket supercharged, its gonna be beast on the straight line and on the track!
Agreed. It shifts extremely fast when you are full throttle in SPORT+. Only when you are puttering around, it shifts slower especially in auto mode.
I actually own a 2is350 which is the lightest of the bunch even lighter than a RC 350 lighter than a brand new IS350 and I have modified it in several ways and it's quick. It is important to know that r&r racing actually does make a supercharger kit with an intercooler for both the RC models and the IS models even the ISF and RCF
I hope you review that beautiful red ST185 celica GT4 in the background 👏 I recently purchased one and I love it 🥰
This is my dream car. Beautiful and powerful. Oh, and the reliability is the biggest plus.
Problem with LC500 is that they are not close ratio 10 speed you are hoping for, they are still similar tallish gears and top 4 gears are for cruising.
My buddy has an RCF with an exhaust and Öhlins coilovers. The car is phenomenal sounding and driving.
He put over 50,000 miles on it the first year he had it cause he loves driving it so much lol.
The only issues he’s had is the coolant line that runs under the intake manifold went bad and his hydraulic spoiler stopped working. Other than that it’s been reliable for him.
Truly amazing cars would love to have one if they weren’t so expensive
They are pricey Lexus cannot scale like other brands but if you look around everyone else in the M4 range is pricy also. These are not cheap cars news by design of course but Toyota has the 86 line for a more cost effective entry into the GR world....which F cars are a bi product of GRs efforts etc.
@@RandenMontalvo These cars are just overpriced fanboy turds. They aren't fast, they don't have manual options, they can't really be modded, they aren't super reliable and they are expensive to work on and fix.
You just have to be a lexus fanboy to want this crap.
If I had money. It was my choice. I love the fact that it is very analog.
Heavy diff for weight balance or counter balance gains stability n traction.
Because the one who buys this wants a perfect car to take you to the track, go fast reliably, enjoy the V8 with great stopping power and then drive home. The LC could not do that - because it just wasn‘t engineered for that, but the RCF yes. I agree on the price, which is just too high. But other Manufacturers do the same mistakes too, just look at the Mercedes SL63. I would opt for a used Track Edition, in my humble opinion.
I was accually considering buying a normal RC F but this video made me reconsider😮
Yes listen to a guy who didn't even take a sexy v8 car out for a drive.
The looks are stunning. I love it. It has more than enough power. 100K, not a chance.
Great and true review…as always:)! What a wonderful playful car. My experience with this vehicle after 4 years of ownership, living with this car and literally driving it like it was intended to be driven was amazing. Sold it and almost cried and deeply regret letting it go…
Very well done 👍🏾; I always thought this car cost too much for what it is.
I think he forgot that he is reviewing the TRACK EDITION and as such comments like "if you take it to the track" is nonsense. The review of this track edition should be done with the assumption that the owner does track the car on almost every weekend possible. Comments like "you dont need ceramic breaks" are dumb.
Thank goodness for 1.5x playback speed 🤣 one of my favorite channels!
Was not expecting it to sound that good. You are the BEST at explaining the mechanical things I'm interested in.
You sounded quite clueless saying "LC500 is better in every way" Ahh NO! They are apples to oranges since LC500 is a pure GT car. RCF is a proper performance car. Big difference. LC500 does not like the track at all. RCF annihilates the LC500 in a straight line race. You want to see a video of an RCF putting bus lengths on the LC500? Not even close. LC500 is a 4500 lbs GT car with a soft suspension and without the hardware on the race track. RCF weighs 400+ lbs less with a stiffer chassis, more cooling, more aggressive suspension and a much better power to weight ratio since it is a much smaller and lighter car.
Your explanations and video editing is top notch even for those who aren’t really knowledgeable about mechanical stuff!! 💯👌
I just bought RC-F simply because my kids can fit comfortably in the back, using child seats :D i want them to know what v8 is and how much fun you can have with this car. They love it
You my guy have just won the award for Father of the Year!
We need a video on the IS F!
13:11 ‘sometimes’ these heavy components are intentional to balance weight distribution from front to back to avoid oversteer/understeer
(this is a general comment regarding track cars, not specific to Toyota/Lexus)
Great honest review. Let’s get the details on that red Celica! A friend of mine drove me to high school for 2 years in one just like that. I would love to see a detailed video on it.
The track edition is just not worth it. I would rather have the regular RC F with the performance/carbon package over the track edition. You get heated/cooled seats that are all leather and more durable. With the money saved you can add intake, headers, and exhaust. While the spoiler on the track edition is beautifully done, especially the F logo, it's way over done to me. For those tracking the car all the time, then it makes sense. For the street use I would be using it for, it will just attract attention and unfortunately the RC F doesn't have the power to back up that spoiler on the street. Plus, the retractable carbon fiber spoiler looks awesome. The interior is a nice mix of some modern with old school, but it looks great. The 2-tone black with red accents looks amazing, the seats look amazing, I'm sure the quality is all there. As for the LC 500...that's just a gorgeous car inside and out. Why look at the RC F instead? It is lighter by about 400 lbs, should be livelier as far as handling, and has an oil cooler and transmission cooler. It's a shame Lexus didn't get the RC F to around 3600 lbs and LC 500 to 3800 lbs.
Another good review. Thank you. your channel is good viewing for me, in the UK
Please review the LC sometime in the future, super interested! Such a special car, would really love to hear from you, from a true mechanics’ perspective 😊
Bring back the V8s!
In a world where all companies purposely make their car unreliable to profit off itat their dealers, you just cannot hate lexus. Reliable, old school v8s, whats not to love
Love your car reviews both the good and the bad., with insights only an experienced mechanic are likely to see.
Truly is one of the last great v8 coupes i would love an rcf in my garage one day
REGARDLESS of the subject matter, if the CCN is doing a video, i'm watching. Right after I click the like button!
Basic and simple has a quality of its own.
To 99% of people who see it on the street, this car looks like it was modded with Autozone parts. The wing is so ridiculous, it would make people think the brake calipers are the fake shells that attach to the real ones to give the illusion of large fixed calipers for high performance. All of the things that are on this should have just been stand alone options on the RCF. Most people will never track it and just crawl in city traffic or set the cruise on the interstate for long trips. All that said, you have to appreciate Toyota for still producing this car when the market is so limited. For the same money, the better car was a BMW M4 before they went and ruined the styling in 2021. People who buy these new do not really keep them after the warranty had ended so the additional repairs a BMW needs are not a factor.
let's not even talk about the fact this is one of the rarest new cars in america
Thanks for the firsthand information that you give to us both customers and technicians. i am Ugandan- East Africa wholeheartedly thanking you for the details of whatever you land on.
I’ve daily driven my RCF for 4 years. Total agree with all your comments. The engine is faultless but for a top of the tree performance/ luxury, its lacking in tech and quality. Rattling windows in doors, cracked dash, peeling leather seats, moon roof rattles, failed front shock and horrendously expensive dealer brakes.
Have a 2015 and don’t have any of those issues. Not a single creak or rattle. Just buy brake pads from rock auto and do it yourself. It’s not hard
@@DoctorGaga87I gotta call BS. I had mine 3 years not a single problem.
What tech gesture control? Never ever heard a rattle in my F or anyones F unless they have removed panels. Always get confused at what folks mean with "tech" Apple CarPlay check all voice activated what do you mean by tech a bigger screen?
@@RandenMontalvo Gesture control, 360 camera in 4K, tablets everywhere, wireless phone chargers, LED's everywhere, HUD, video games, wireless apple and android. Futuristic technology lol.
@@salimrandall hahaha not even a new G80 has that lol That’s a Tesla. lol I never got into my F car and said it needs new tech lol odd. And I’m coming from iDrive 8. The only way I can see the “tech” argument is if you’re coming from a Tesla but from a German car zero clue. Tesla’s obviously lead the industry with tech but Porsche , BMW Lexus beyond dynamic lighting are really kinda all in line once you have voice activated CarPlay.
Curious…has the CCN ever actually “tracked” one of these or any other car before? While he is a phenomenal mechanic, not sure he is qualified to render a verdict on any true performance car. After all, he states the hood vent is non-functional which is incorrect. The rain guard should be removed for track use and kept in place for daily driving.
Is that a amber pearl ES 350 in the back! Now that is a rare find!!! I would love to see some content on that bad boy!! Great video!
Sweet ride. If these cars weren't over $65k(base) USD I would probably consider one - I rather a manual supra🙂. I don't think service is difficult on that engine, but the oil filter sitting right on top of the engine would have been sweeter(less mess since it drains, too). Accessing filters under the car can be a huge pain if you don't have a hoist or quickjacks. As far as oil changes go, I really appreciate top mount oil filters.
Edit: OEM $15000 brakes on a -$65-$70k- $100k car?!?! What the heck was Toyota thinking??
Pretty standard price for carbons, this model aint for the brokies.
@@RandenMontalvovery and that’s what makes it better only a good amount of people will have it. Better than seeing so many scats or mustangs honestly
@@interviewtime1170 agreed
Love the straightforward frankness from AMD.😊
PLEASE DO A REVIEW ON THE LEXUS ISF!
If only I didn't have to pay for housing I'd totally get one.
15k for a brake job is insane
not just a brake job. 4 new brakes lol….
Not any different than any car with Carbon Ceramic brakes.
AMD, Did you say this V8 is - a high powered engine that's reliable? I thought that was illegal. 😉🤣
This as weekend car and a LC500 as a daily is a dream garage id like to have 🤤
When I see "Track Edition", I'm expecting no rear seats, no eco mode, seat belt harness, no HVAC, some kind of roll bar, less sound deadening, bare trunk, and a lot less weight. This isn't it. This is just marketing
Thanks man i have been struggling with this predicament for a while now. Today my mind is clear the LC500C is one i will be buying.
should have use this engine in the new Supra!
It'd be slowed down and kill its weight distribution. Plus the engine in the car as is already makes about the same amount of torque stock as the V8 so there's not really a point in putting it in the supra when they're already pretty close in performance,along with tuning being far more superior in the i6s case than the V8s.