Classic car collectors are typically smitten by big engines with straight-line speed, a nostalgic exhaust rumble and the simplicity to repair. The naturally aspirated (NA) motors are large, powerful and becoming increasingly rare, given the popularity of turbocharged engines. Call it a siren song from decades past.
Astute collectors gravitate toward old-school motors. The most popular are typically NA flat six or V8 with instant power, exhilarating rumble, offering have “more character” than most turbo choices. The NA is becoming rarer to find, so, when a particular model announces its last year in production, those aficionados are lured to buy like moths to light.
So, how about buying a new NA engine that’s in its final year? One that combines modern tech meshed with vintage power. Yes, please.
The 2025 Lexus RC F Final Edition checks all those boxes. It’s sleek, fast and delivers that intoxicating exhaust to recall the joy of bygone days. You receive the extraordinary marriage of adrenalin and Toyota’s DNA for excellent reliability.
The RC F Final Edition 2+2 is a sublime driving experience for those desiring both creature comforts and some grin-inducing fun when the mood strikes. It strikes the perfect balance of current luxury with sparkling performance, including worthy acceleration, steering, handling and enough cool technology to wow any gadget geek. I know the hard-to-impress valet attendants were smitten.
Only 200 (185 for the U.S.) 2025 RC F Final Editions will be made, raising the alarm to act quickly. Can you say FOMO (fear of missing out)? You know, out with the new, in with a laudable investment opportunity.
Thus, when I was offered the opportunity to put the RC F Final Edition through the paces, I couldn’t say “yes” fast enough. Was it worth the time? So much so that I dreamed of going AWOL for a month or so.
SKIN
The latest RC F Final Edition is a true head-turner. Its long, sexy, swoopy lines appear aerodynamically perfect. The Sonic Iridium silver tester is one of only four colors offered (Incognito, Radiant Red and Ultra White), and screams serious business with a bolder front, eye-catching Spindle Grille (fits this car perfectly), unique bumper and generous air scoops underneath. Triple projector Ultra compact LED headlamps generously illuminate the road, as do the auto high beams. The rear large trapezoidal dual chrome exhausts and unique 3D LED taillights motivated many positive discussions from the neighbors.
Unique Final Edition carbon fiber (less weight) covers the roof, front spoiler, rocker panel and rear diffuser.
Sticky Michelin Pilot Sport 4S rubber, lovely 19” BBS forged aluminum wheels and red brake calipers enhance the robust appearance. Angled quad-tipped exhausts not only look (and sound) menacing, but also improves throttle response. I found myself smiling while glancing back several times when walking away from the vehicle.
PERFORMANCE
Thankfully, the RC F Final Edition delivers more than a merely alluring figure. The NA 5-liter V8 delivers 472 horsepower and 395 lb.-ft of torque for smooth and powerful acceleration. A tuned 8-speed Sports Direct Shift (SPDS) transmission automatically detects curves and holds a lower gear to accelerate out of the curve. You can choose from four driving modes (ECO, Comfort, Sport S and Sport S+). Of course, I quickly dialed in the Sport + that tightens steering feel, suspension tautness, rev points and the intoxicating exhaust roar.
The RC F surprisingly tours wonderfully, barely breathing at 80mph. The standard rear-wheel drive feels planted, confident and secure in high winds. Even with the low-profile rubber, the RC F soaks up the numerous North Texas road imperfections with aplomb. Fast and smooth? Sign me up.
The 15” front and 14” rear Brembo brakes stop you in quick fashion with little strain. Which is nice, since it’s over 3,781 lbs. hits 0-60 in 4.2 seconds and reaches 168 mph on the track. Mileage is quoted at 16/24. I observed 24 on the highway and appreciated the generous range of 450 miles. Pinch me.
Other cool attributes are an active rear spoiler engaging at 50 mph, and the Adaptive Variable Air Suspension raises and lowers for improved driving dynamics and accessibility when entering/exiting the vehicle.
CABIN
The interior is luxuriously minimalistic. Top-notch materials everywhere, abundant contrast stitching, supple and gorgeous red and black Ultra Suede seats, and more carbon fiber trim are tastefully placed. The Ultra-Suede wrapped steering wheel (heated) feels performance sharp and won’t burn your mitts sitting in heat.
The cabin’s design includes lovely swoops, curves and unique fabrics and carbon fiber. Since it’s a limited production, you’ll see a production badge above the console line (the tester was 131/200). Red seat belts and red stitching feel racy special.
The 10-way power driver seat (eight-way for the front passenger) cuddles you in supportive comfort with lumbar support, heated/ventilated front seats and side bolsters, along with attractive and comfy perforated Ultrasuede® and semi-aniline leather interior trim (some of the best I’ve experienced). I desperately want one as my office desk.
Cabin room is good for front-seat passengers, but the rear seats are limited to small kids and smaller storage. Sightline visibility is good for such a sleek exterior. Storage is restricted for knickknacks, as well. But, hey, you know the drill; a true sportscar trades cubbyholes for spine-tingling exhilaration.
The cozy trunk is 10 cu.ft. but expands a bit with the 60/40 split rear seats folded down to house one, or maybe two, golf bags. Or just leave your sticks at the club.
Happily, being a Final Edition, the RC F is pretty much fully loaded, besides premium paint ($500) and illuminated door sills ($450).
TECH CHECK
The updated technology will require a little learning curve, due to the vast array of selections as you access the infotainment via trackpad or touchscreen. Once comfortable, you’ll enjoy a plethora of choices literally at your fingertips via the Lexus Remote Touch mouse-like control on the console.
A 10.3” high-res infotainment touchscreen displays radio, climate controls, driving mode selections and a 360-degree overhead camera. Updated voice recognition and touchscreen capabilities are handy when opting not to deal with the trackpad during spirted driving.
The premium 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system is crystal clear. Speaking of nostalgia, the RC F includes an old school CD player – remember it’s a future collector’s item. Yet as sublime as the premium sound is, I found myself tuned into the exhaust’s invigorating growl as my driving soundtrack.
Lexus Enform software utilizes Apple Car Play, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa apps, allowing you to voice respond to texts displayed on the screen, play from mp3 playlists and initiate turn-by-turn navigation. The Lexus App allows you to remotely start the car, lock/unlock your doors and locate the vehicle of its last parked location. Curiously, there is no wireless charging feature for phones, and the camera view/auto hold buttons should be in the large center console rather than in relatively obscure places.
The 2025 RC F Final Edition makes quite the exit after this year. Excellent reliability and top safety ratings round out an exemplary package for those desiring worthy performance, sexy lines, quiet opulence and technology. And, in 15 years or so, the collector resale value could put as big a grin on your face as when driving it.
SCORECARD
Golf Bags: Maybe two with the rear seats folded down
Curbside Appeal: Gorgeous with that delicious exhaust note
0-60: 4.2 seconds (feels quicker)
MPG: 16/24. Squeezed 21with spirited driving
Must Haves: Not much
Warranty: 4-yrs/50,000 miles 6-yrs/70,000 powertrain
Base Price: $92,925
Price as Tested: $95,263
Who Buys It? Those desiring a NA V8 soon to be a collector investment
Finish Line: Performance, euphoric exhaust, luxury and flair with Lexus’ superb reliability
Test-drive the 2025 Lexus RC F Final Edition at Park Place Lexus Grapevine and Park Place Lexus Plano.