Infiniti
Q60
Lexus
RC
Infiniti Q60 vs Lexus RC: 2019 Comparison
The short answer
The Infiniti Q60 offers fuel economy, while the Lexus RC excels at power instead. Choose the Infiniti Q60 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
Q60
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. The first-generation Q60 (2014-2016, essentially a rebadged G37) is consistently praised for its reliability, with the naturally aspirated 3.7L V6 (VQ37) engine described as "bulletproof" and the cars considered "extremely reliable." The second-generation Q60 (2017-2022) with the twin-turbo 3.0L V6 (VR30) receives praise for its powerful engine, especially in Red Sport trim (400 hp), attractive exterior styling, and comfortable grand touring character. However, this generation faces recurrent criticism for its dated and low-quality interior with a poorly reviewed dual-screen infotainment system, uncommunicative and "dog shit" steering feel (even with the Direct Adaptive Steering system), sluggish transmission tuning, and concerns over the long-term reliability of the turbocharged powertrain compared to the older V6.
Best version to buy
For the first generation (2014-2016), the Q60 with the 3.7L V6 is the recommended choice for proven reliability. For the second generation (2017-2022), the 3.0T Red Sport trim is highlighted for its significant power advantage (400 hp).
Known issues
- ⚠Dated, low-quality interior: hard plastics, dual-screen infotainment system criticized as outdated and poorly designed, interior materials compared unfavorably to mainstream sedans. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Uncommunicative steering: lack of feedback, described as "dog shit" and non-communicative, even in Sport+ mode for models with Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS). Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Turbocharged engine (VR30) reliability concerns: mixed reports on long-term reliability; mentions of belt snapping issues, sensitive turbos, and fuel injector problems; 2017 model year specifically flagged for issues. 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 Infiniti Q60 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Lexus RC, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Lexus RC is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Infiniti Q60 or the Lexus RC?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Infiniti Q60 and the Lexus RC. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Infiniti Q60 or the Lexus RC?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Infiniti Q60 or the Lexus RC?
The Infiniti Q60 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 9.1 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 Infiniti Q60 or the Lexus RC?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.