Does the Lexus RC 350 require premium gas?
The RC 350 is designed to run on premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher. Using premium fuel supports the vehicle’s performance and engine timing, while lower-octane fuel can lead to reduced power and efficiency in many driving situations.
Fuel requirements and octane
Car manufacturers specify the minimum octane and fuel type to ensure the engine runs as intended. For the RC 350, premium gasoline is the standard recommendation, with allowances for common regional variations in octane labeling.
- Premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher is recommended for the RC 350.
- Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (E10) is permissible in many markets, but always confirm local specifications and avoid fuels with higher ethanol blends unless Lexus confirms compatibility.
- In regions where 93 octane (or higher) fuels are widely available, those fuels are suitable and may provide a small performance margin for sporty driving.
- Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for your specific year and market, as fuel guidance can vary by model year and country.
Bottom line: The RC 350 is built to run on premium gasoline (91 octane or higher), with E10 acceptable where permitted. Using lower-octane fuel is not recommended for everyday driving, as it can reduce performance and trigger engine protection measures.
Understanding lower-octane fuel and engine behavior
If you accidentally refuel with lower-octane fuel, the RC 350’s knock sensors may retard timing to protect the engine. This can result in noticeably less power, slower acceleration, and diminished efficiency until the higher-octane fuel is again used. Regular use of low-octane fuel can also lead to longer-term wear and less optimal performance, which is why Lexus specifies premium gas for this model.
For drivers who occasionally cannot access premium fuel, plan ahead when possible and fill at locations that offer higher-octane options. If you regularly drive in harsh heat, on steep grades, or with a heavy load, premium fuel becomes even more important to sustain performance.
Summary
The Lexus RC 350 requires premium gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher, and it generally accepts gasoline with up to 10% ethanol (E10) where allowed. Always follow the year- and market-specific guidance in your owner’s manual. When in doubt, err on the side of premium fuel to preserve performance and engine health.
