Does the RC 350 have a turbo?
No. The Lexus RC 350 does not use turbocharging; it relies on a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6. Turbo variants exist in other RC models in some markets, but not in the RC 350.
To understand why this matters, it helps to know how the RC 350 fits into Lexus's coupe lineup. The RC 350 is the mid-range option in the RC family, balancing refined luxury and steady, linear power delivery with a focus on smoothness and reliability rather than the high-end boost associated with turbocharged engines. In the United States and many other markets, the RC 350 is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offers either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, depending on the trim and options chosen.
Engine and performance
The RC 350 is powered by a naturally aspirated V6 rather than a turbocharged unit. Here's how it generally stacks up across typical markets and model years:
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 (2GR-FKS), naturally aspirated
- Power output: around 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque (varies slightly by year/market)
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive standard, optional all-wheel drive
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Fuel economy: mid-to-high teens in city driving and low-to-mid 20s on the highway (depends on drivetrain and year)
In practice, the RC 350 emphasizes smooth, refined acceleration and Lexus's characteristic ride quality. Its NA V6 provides a broad, usable power band without the peak surge associated with turbocharged engines. This contrasts with turbo variants in the RC lineup, which use forced induction to deliver higher peak outputs in some markets.
Turbo options in the Lexus RC lineup
For buyers curious about turbocharged alternatives within the RC range, several markets offered a turbocharged four-cylinder variant. The RC 200t or RC 300 (depending on market and model year) uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four, providing a different balance of power and efficiency compared with the RC 350's V6.
- Variant: RC 200t / RC 300 (markets/years) with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine
- Power output: roughly 240–260 horsepower, with torque around 250–280 lb-ft depending on year and tune
- Drivetrain: Availability of rear-wheel drive and/or all-wheel drive varies by market
Bottom line: Turbocharged variants exist within the Lexus RC family, but the RC 350 itself remains a naturally aspirated model.
Market notes and prospective buyers
Engine options for the RC lineup can vary by region and model year. In the United States, the RC 350 has been the main V6 option, while turbo-four variants appeared in other regions under different naming (such as RC 200t/RC 300). Prospective buyers should check the current specifications at a local Lexus dealer or the official Lexus website for the latest engine options and availability.
Summary
The RC 350 does not have a turbocharger; it is powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6, typically delivering about 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque in many markets. Turbocharged variants exist in the Lexus RC lineup in certain regions as the RC 200t/RC 300 with a 2.0-liter turbo engine, but those engines are not part of the RC 350 configuration.
For buyers prioritizing turbocharged performance, exploring the RC 200t/RC 300 variants in the applicable markets is the right approach. For a smooth, refined V6 experience, the RC 350 stands as the naturally aspirated choice within the RC lineup.
