Lexus RC 350 0-60 times

The Lexus RC is a natural consequence to the Lexus rejuvenation. The Japanese manufacturer wanted to attract younger customers to their line-up and a striking coupe certainly fits that bill well.

The Lexus RC-350 is not just an attractive vehicle – it’s a real head turner. It’s based on a mash-up between the IS and GS and is equipped with several different engine, transmission and powertrain options.

Perhaps the most interesting for younger buyers will be the RC-350, aside from the V8 RC-F, that can be viewed as an altogether different vehicle.

Lexus RC-350 0-60 and Quarter Mile

The Lexus RC-350 is equipped with a naturally-aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine that pumps out 311 horsepower to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic gearbox. An all-wheel-drive model is optional, but that one sends the power via a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Because of that, the rear-wheel-drive version is the one to get – it’s not just more fun to drive, but it’s quicker and faster as well. In numbers, the RWD Lexus RC-350 gets to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, while the AWD one gets there 0.2 seconds later. The difference widens the more you press on – the RWD model can go up to 143 mph, while the AWD one stops at 130 mph.

There is a difference in how both cars drive as well. The AWD one has a slow-to-shift transmission, while the RWD one has a faster gearbox with a choice between Normal, Sport and Manual shifts via paddle shifters behind the steering wheel.

Both models are behind the competitors when it comes to performance. The reason is the heavy body – the RC is one of the heaviest coupes out there.

This doesn’t affect the way it drives though. The RC-350 offers the ride quality you’d expect from a Lexus, while also being good on twisty roads as well. The steering is nicely-weighted and quick to respond, giving the driver a good amount of control over the vehicle.

F Sport models are even better to drive, thanks to an upgraded suspension, rear-wheel-steering and variable-ratio-steering, all of them sharpening the reflexes of the car. This trim also comes with a Sport+ mode that makes the engine more responsive as well. The great thing about the F Sport trim is that it doesn’t spoil the ride quality, even though it’s a bit firmer.

Exterior & Interior

If you want a conservative or elegant-looking coupe, the Lexus RC is certainly not for you. It’s striking and aggressive from almost every angle. This is especially true for the front end, which looks downright menacing thanks to the wide-open spindle grille and sharp headlights. The F Sport model looks even more aggressive and is a real head-turner.

Inside, the RC has an interesting dash design, reminiscent of the one in the IS and LF-A. The materials are of a high quality and the fit and finish are top-notch, as expected from a Lexus. Atop the dash, there’s a new 10.25-inch screen that houses the infotainment system. It’s not a touchscreen, however – this one is controlled via a touchpad - not a very happy solution when driving.

Conclusion

If you want the best possible performance from your next coupe, the RC-350 may not be the best choice for you, as it is heavy and doesn’t accelerate with the same ferocity its German competitors do. That being said, the RC-350 is still a great vehicle for those who value style and comfort, with a bit of driving enjoyment thrown in.

Reviewed by Ivo Gievski