Audi
RS5
Lexus
RC
Audi RS5 vs Lexus RC: 2024 Comparison
The short answer
The Audi RS5 offers fuel economy, while the Lexus RC excels at power instead. Choose the Audi RS5 if you prioritize fuel economy in daily driving, or the Lexus RC if power matters more for your needs. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
RS5
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation and powertrain. The naturally aspirated V8 models (B8/B8.5, 2013-2015) are praised for their thrilling, high-revving engine character, exceptional exhaust sound, and perceived build quality, making them desirable for driving enthusiasts. However, they are associated with very high and unpredictable maintenance costs outside of warranty.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a single "best" version, as preferences are split by generation. Enthusiasts seeking engine character and sound strongly favor the B8/B8.5 generation with the 4.2L FSI V8.
Known issues
- ⚠**B9 Generation (2018+ 2.9L TFSI V6):** Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) suspension leaks: very frequent issue reported at mileage thresholds (often above 60k-70k miles), leading to expensive repairs (~$7k-$11k). Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Engine ancillary failures: PCV valve leaks and water pump failures are recurrently mentioned as common points of failure for the EA839 engine. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠High cost of consumables: brake pads, rotors, and tires are noted as being exceptionally expensive. Frequency: recurrent.
RC
Overall
Mixed to positive sentiment, heavily dependent on model variant and owner expectations. The RC F (V8) is consistently praised for its bulletproof reliability, exceptional build quality, comfortable and luxurious cabin, and the character of its naturally aspirated V8 engine. It is widely regarded as a superb grand tourer and daily driver that excels in comfort and long-term ownership confidence.
Best version to buy
RC F with the Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD). This configuration is specifically highlighted for improving handling dynamics over non-TVD models.
Known issues
- ⚠Underwhelming 8-speed automatic transmission (RC F): described as decent but not snappy or engaging, with laggy response in normal mode, slow shifts when cold. Not a dual-clutch. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Substantial weight negatively impacts handling: car feels heavy, not as agile or communicative as competitors, limits spirited canyon/track driving. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Firm ride quality (Non-F, especially F Sport): ride is noticeably firmer and less comfortable than a contemporary IS 350, described as less "cloud-like". Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Lexus RC is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Audi RS5, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Lexus RC are a dealbreaker, the Audi RS5 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Audi RS5 or the Lexus RC?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Lexus RC than the Audi RS5. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Audi RS5 or the Lexus RC?
The Audi RS5 seats more passengers than the Lexus RC on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Audi RS5 is classed as a Fastback, the Lexus RC as a Coupe.
Which has better fuel economy, the Audi RS5 or the Lexus RC?
The Audi RS5 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 9.7-9.8 L/100km combined versus 10.8 L/100km for the Lexus RC, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Audi RS5 or the Lexus RC?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Audi RS5 than the Lexus RC. See the known issues comparison above.