Lexus RC

Fuel economy, running costs and specs by model year

The Lexus RC appears in this database in 5 model years, from 2016 to 2020, offered with gasoline power. Combined economy ranges from 19 to 26 MPG across those years, with annual fuel costs of $3,050 to $4,200 at 15,000 miles.

Fuel economy by year

How it compares

Against the average subcompact cars in this dataset (about 27 MPG), the RC sits roughly 5 MPG below that mark on average, making it a thirstier-than-average choice for its class.

Five-year fuel cost

Fuelling a RC for five years at the EPA's 15,000-mile basis costs roughly $15,250 to $21,000, averaging about $18,125 across the versions here. That is the energy bill alone — it excludes insurance, maintenance and depreciation, which for most owners together exceed what goes into the tank.

The range within the range

Economy across the RC varies by about 7 MPG between its most and least frugal versions, which run on gasoline. Engine size, turbocharging, drivetrain and even wheel size explain most of that gap, so when you shop a used RC check which version you are looking at before comparing its running cost to another car.

How it changed over time

Between 2016 and 2020 the RC's average combined economy slipped from about 24 to 22 MPG. Redesigns, new engines and added hybrid or electric versions are usually what move the number, so the year you choose can matter as much as the model.

Best year for fuel economy

The 2017 RC has the strongest average combined economy in this database at about 22 MPG, while the 2019 is the lowest at about 22 MPG. If running cost is your priority, that is the year to target on the used market; later years may add equipment or safety features instead.

2020 RC at a glance

Use the comparison tool to set the RC against a rival, or go back to all Lexus models.