Is Lexus RC 350 fast?
Yes. The RC 350 offers brisk acceleration for a luxury grand tourer, driven by a 3.5-liter V6 producing about 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. In typical testing, 0-60 mph times land in the mid-5-second range depending on drivetrain and tires, making it quick for everyday driving and highway merges, though not a full-on sports car. This article examines the RC 350’s speed credentials, how it feels on the road, and how it compares to peers.
The question is more nuanced: speed isn’t just horsepower. It depends on throttle response, transmission behavior, weight, traction, and how the power is delivered to the road. Below, we break down the performance figures, the real-world driving feel, and how the RC 350 stacks up against rivals in the segment.
Powertrain and numbers
The RC 350 relies on a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. In most markets, it produces 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Lexus offers rear-wheel drive as standard and provides all-wheel drive as an option, with the drivetrain choice affecting launch feel and grip in different conditions. A Sport or F-Sport trim typically adds a firmer suspension, larger wheels, and sharper responses, though horsepower remains largely the same.
Performance figures by drivetrain
Before presenting the core numbers, note that acceleration figures vary by model year, trim, tires, and testing conditions. The ranges below reflect common results reported by automotive outlets.
- 0-60 mph (RWD RC 350): typically 5.6 to 5.9 seconds
- 0-60 mph (AWD RC 350): typically 5.9 to 6.2 seconds
- Top speed: electronically limited, commonly around 140 mph depending on tires and model year
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic with smooth, multi-mode programming
These figures show that the RC 350 delivers solid, usable acceleration in daily driving and on highways, with the RWD configuration usually feeling peppier off the line due to more direct power delivery.
How it feels on the road
In everyday use, the RC 350 emphasizes refined, linear acceleration and a quiet, comfortable cabin. The V6 delivers ample torque across a broad rev range, so you rarely have to hunt for power. The eight-speed automatic shifts smoothly, and the chassis offers a balanced blend of composure and agility. In Sport-oriented modes, the throttle sharpens, and the steering tightens, but the overall experience remains more luxurious than track-focused.
Compared with purpose-built sports coupes, the RC 350 prioritizes comfort and predictability over razor-sharp handling feel. It’s quick enough to satisfy most enthusiasts, yet it remains well-behaved and easy to live with as a daily driver.
Performance in perspective: pros and cons
To summarize the practical speed-focused design traits, consider these points:
- Strong, refined V6 with smooth power delivery
- Effective transmission that complements effortless acceleration
- AWD available for enhanced grip in varied conditions
- Heavier than some rivals, which can temper nimbleness in extreme driving
- Not a dedicated sports car; sportier options (like the RC F) offer higher performance potential
In real-world terms, the RC 350 gives you a confident and polished quickness that fits well in a luxury lineup, with sportier variants offering sharper handling and more aggressive characteristics.
Real-world considerations
Fuel economy for the RC 350 varies with drivetrain and year, but generally sits in the low-to-mid 20s mpg combined for RWD models and slightly lower for AWD configurations, depending on wheels, tires, and driving style. Reliability and maintenance have been solid for Lexus, with the RC 350 balancing performance with the brand’s reputation for comfort and long-term durability. For buyers seeking more outright performance, the RC F variant provides a higher output and more track-oriented tuning.
In sum, speed is ample for everyday driving, highway merging, and confident overtakes, while the RC 350’s strengths lie in refinement, ride quality, and everyday usability alongside respectable pace.
Summary
The Lexus RC 350 delivers solid, mature performance for a luxury coupe, combining a capable 3.5-liter V6, a refined eight-speed automatic, and available all-wheel drive to provide confident acceleration and steady high-speed cruising. Its 0-60 mph times sit in the mid-5-second range for rear-wheel-drive models and slightly slower for AWD, which is fast by many standards but not a match for purpose-built sport coupes. For buyers seeking speed with Lexus refinement and reliability, the RC 350 offers a balanced, practical pace rather than an all-out performance machine.
Is the RC 350 fast?
With the rear-wheel drive configuration, the RC 350 accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, which increases to 6 seconds in all-wheel drive.
Is a Lexus RC 350 a sports car?
This luxury sports car makes calculations based on vehicle speed and driver input, delivering performance on demand.
How fast can you make a RC 350?
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.
Is a Lexus RC 350 a good car?
The RC300 and RC350 models reviewed here make for great long-distance grand tourers and are comfortable for daily driving too, but they aren't as satisfying to drive as their sporty-looking bodywork would suggest.
