This aggressively styled four-seat coupe debuted for 2015 as the RC 350 with a 306-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine and a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive as another step in Lexus’ ongoing effort to attract younger buyers. Rear-drive RC 350s use an eight-speed automatic transmission while all-wheel-drive models have a six-speed automatic. The RC competes with the Audi A5, BMW 4 Series and Cadillac ATS.
The RC 350 was later joined by the RC F, a rear-drive performance model with a V-8 engine. The RC F is covered separately in the Cars.com Research section.
New for 2016 Two new engines expand the RC lineup. The RC 200t is powered by a 241-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder while the RC 300 has a 255-hp version of the RC 350’s 3.5-liter V-6. The RC 200t comes with rear-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic, and the RC 300 comes with all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic. The F Sport versions of the RC 200t and rear-drive RC 350 now offer optional orange brake calipers and a limited-slip differential.
Significant Standard Features
LED headlights and running lights
Heated side mirrors
Keyless entry with push-button start
Automatic climate control
Tilt/telescoping steering wheel
60/40-split folding backseat
Bluetooth streaming audio
CD stereo with 7-inch dashboard screen and USB/iPod connectivity
Backup camera
Safety Connect emergency communication system with one-year trial subscription
Required in every new car: front airbags, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system
