Lexus has announced the price and specification for its RC 200t –the entry-level model in its sporty two-door range

When the RC was launched last year, the range comprised a 3.5-litreV6-powered RC 350 F-Sportand while it is a satisfying vehicle in many ways, the range neededmore variety, not least an entry-level derivative. Enter the RC 200t, a 4-cylinder turbopetrol-powered Lexus that comes in cheaper than its bigger brother, but offers a not-too-dissimilar coupe experience.

Glenn Crompton, Vice President of Marketing for Lexus is very candid about the role the new RC plays in the local Lexus line-up: “Cars like the RC exist not as volume cars, but as aspirational products designed to draw in the young and the young at heart. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder turboprovides an accessible point of entry for lifestyle buyers who want the statement of a luxury coupé balanced with the efficiencies afforded by a smaller capacity powerplant.

“In this context, the new RC 200t fits the brief perfectly – it’s stylish, refined, frugal and generously stocked with a pleasing athleticism to it. It boasts an emotional draw too – key among them striking looks – and some creditable dynamic skills. With a price tag of R699 100, it’s also certain to appeal to wallet-conscious buyers.”

200t engine and performance

The Lexus RC 200t is powered by the 8AR-FTS 2.0-litre twin-scroll turbocharged petrol engine thatwe first experienced in the Lexus NX 200t crossover. This engine is mated with an 8-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission with shift paddles. Drive Mode Select varies throttle response and engine performance characteristics, and the driver can choose Sport, Eco and Normal. This smart 2.0-litre can switch between the fuel-saving Atkinson cycle and the conventional Otto cycle. This engine produces a healthy 180 kW and 350 Nm, and is claimed to reach 100 kph from zero in 7.5 seconds, going on to a top speed of 230 kph. It's claimed to be reasonably fuel efficient too, and will sip 8.0 L/100km, while emitting 186 g/km of CO2.

RC 200t Features

The RC 200t comes with a generous selection of standard equipment. The exterior is adorned with LED lights(headlights, tail lights, fog lights & DRLs), rear fog lights, headlamp washers, heated- and retractable side mirrors and asunroof. Step inside the cabin and you'll find leather upholstery, front seat heater and ventilation, power front seats, two-way driver seat lumbar support, electric power steering (EPS), multifunction steering wheel with cruise control, full-colour infotainment display, satellite navigation and Bluetooth. In terms of safety, you're well covered with4-sensor anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD). You also get vehicle stability control, traction control and hill start assist. For manoeuvring around tight spaces, there's park distance control and a reverse-view camera. Seven airbags round off the safety features.

Lexus RC 200t Price in South Africa

The new Lexus RC 200t is priced at R699100 (incl. VAT) and comes standard with a 4-year/100 000km and Lexus Distance Plan Plus maintenance plan.The RC 350 F Sport carries a price tag of R787600 (incl. VAT).

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