The idea of “sharper and more graceful” defines the LC flagship, so Lexus engineers have applied the same concept to the new RC. This included enhancing the car’s aerodynamics and fine-tuning the suspension system and powertrain. Armed with a more stable ride quality and sharper handling characteristics, the new RC is more athletic and responsive than ever.
Enhanced aerodynamics — such as a new fin shape on the side window mold and a duct on the rear bumper that improves air flow, result in improved stability. New available 19-in. wheels and tires with increased grip deliver excellent steering response. Stiffer suspension bushings have been incorporated along with new shock absorbers which provide significant damping force from low suspension stroke speeds. Thanks to a significant amount of real-world testing that allowed constant
fine-tuning by the chassis engineers, the new RC delivers an extremely supple ride quality and razor-sharp handling characteristics.
Lexus RC 300 rear-wheel drive is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine. This smooth operator produces 241 horsepower with 258 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 1,650-4,400 rpm. It’s paired with an eight-speed sport direct-shift automatic transmission with paddle shifters and consumes fuel at a rate of 21 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 24 mpg combined manufacturer estimated fuel economy.

The RC 300 all-wheel drive has a 3.5-liter V6 engine. It produces 260 horsepower and 236 lb.-ft. torque at 2,000-4,800 rpm, and is teamed with a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The RC 350 gets a 311-horsepower version of the V6. With rear-wheel drive, it gets the eight-speed Sports Direct Shift automatic transmission with paddle shifters; with all-wheel drive, it’s a six-speed automatic.

Though the CR-V is Honda‘s crossover darling, the subcompact HR-V’s attractive price point and just-right sizing makes it a winner in its own right. And starting with the 2019 model year the HR-V expands its appeal with the addition of new Sport and Touring trims, refreshed styling, new technology and the goal of a more refined driving experience. But, with an MSRP of $29,735, is Honda asking too much for the Touring while delivering too little?     

Volvo’s latest generation of vehicles showcases a turning point for the Swedish automaker, highlighted by captivating design, high technology and an aspiration of electric motoring. And this all-new, American-made S60 is just another example of Volvo throwing down the hammer. Volvo has crammed all the goodies into this chic cabin and combined them with a relaxing yet spirited drive wrapped in a gorgeous Scandinavian body.     

Look at Lexus’s current vehicle offerings and like every automaker you’ll find standouts like the LS, LC, ES and then some real dogs like the GX, LX and well should we put the IS in that category too? Last redesigned for the 2014 model year it remains the cheapest way to get into a new Lexus sedan with a starting price of around $40,000. And in F SPORT livery it’s still turning heads! No saggy skin or bald spots, 6 years later and the IS looks as spry as ever. But appearances can be deceiving and as a long gaze turns into meaningful conversation the IS effuses a much different vibe.
Lexus states that this is a true sport sedan in every sense of the term with exhilarating performance – that I can guarantee you it is not, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be enjoyed.

Mazda has a vision for its future that looks and feels more premium even when it comes to their entry level sedan. This is the all new Mazda3. Its stylish design may just win your heart and render you accepting of its faults.