How fast does a Lexus RC 350 go?
The RC 350 typically accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.6 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of around 149 mph. Real-world figures vary by drivetrain, tires, and conditions.
In this article, we break down the numbers across common configurations, explain what affects acceleration, and offer context for what speed means in everyday driving versus track testing.
Core performance specifications
Here are the core performance specs that define the RC 350’s speed on the road and on the track.
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 producing about 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters
- Drivetrain options: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) standard; All-Wheel Drive (AWD) optional on certain trims
- 0-60 mph: typically around 5.6 seconds for RWD, about 5.7–5.8 seconds for AWD
- Top speed: electronically limited to about 149 mph (240 km/h)
These figures reflect manufacturer data and common independent tests; individual results can vary with tire choice, elevation, and driving conditions.
Speed across trims and years
Different configurations influence acceleration and top-end feel, though the core V6 remains the same. Here is a concise look at typical times by setup.
- RC 350 with Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): 0-60 mph about 5.6 seconds; top speed about 149 mph
- RC 350 with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or optional performance packages: 0-60 mph about 5.7–5.8 seconds; top speed similar
- RC 350 F Sport variants: performance tuning generally yields similar 0-60 figures, often within a few tenths of the standard model depending on tires and mode settings
These ranges reflect typical manufacturer estimates and independent test results; year-to-year changes are usually minor but can be influenced by tire choices, transmission calibration, and added equipment.
Top speed and driving factors
Power is only part of the story. Aerodynamics, gearing, and electronic controls shape the RC 350’s top end just as much as horsepower.
- Electronic limiter: around 149 mph, a common figure for this class
- Gearing: an 8-speed automatic helps keep the engine in its optimal power band
- Tires and aerodynamics: grip and wind resistance cap practical top speeds
- Drive modes: Normal, Sport, and Sport+ on some trims alter throttle response and stability control behavior
In day-to-day driving, reaching the top speed is unusual outside controlled track environments; most speeds are achieved well before the upper limit, with tires and road conditions playing a decisive role.
Summary
The Lexus RC 350 is a quick luxury coupe driven by a 3.5-liter V6 delivering about 311 horsepower. In typical configurations, it moves from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 5.6 seconds and is electronically limited to about 149 mph. Variations between rear- and all-wheel-drive versions, as well as model-year refinements, cause small differences in acceleration and top speed. Tires, elevation, and driving conditions are influential in real-world performance.
Is the Lexus RC 350 V-6 or V8?
V6
RESPONSIVE V6 POWER
The 3.5-liter V6 engines of the RC 300 AWD and RC 350 deliver 260 and 311 horsepower,* respectively.
What is the 0-60 time for the Lexus RC350?
0–60-MPH Times
In our testing, we found the V-6 engine to be smoother than the four, but the RC350 is still not as gutsy as its rivals. While it managed a 5.6-second run to 60 mph, the BMW 440i coupe we tested did the deed in 4.4 seconds—a performance difference that feels a lot bigger than it looks on paper.
What is the top speed of the Lexus RC 350?
143 MPH
Impressive Powertrain
At the foundation of this new model is a sophisticated powertrain, featuring a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. That gives it enough power to jump from zero to 60 MPH in just 5.8 seconds, and hit a maximum top speed of 143 MPH on the track.
Does the RC 350 have a turbo?
The RC also Comes in a Turbo or a V6
The RC 350 offers a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 311 horsepower. This engine can get the RC 350 from 0-60 MPH in 5.8 seconds.
