Is the 2015 Lexus RC 350 fast?
The 2015 Lexus RC 350 is quick for a luxury coupe, delivering brisk acceleration that makes highway merging and overtaking feel confident. It isn’t a sports car, but its 3.5-liter V6 and 8-speed automatic provide solid, everyday-speed performance.
To judge whether the RC 350 is fast, it helps to look at how Lexus tunes this model, what drivetrain you choose, and how the car is equipped. The RC 350 sits between entry-luxury coupes and true high-performance machines, offering a satisfying blend of smooth power, refined ride, and composure at speed. Below are the key numbers and factors that influence its speed.
Performance snapshot
Powertrain at a glance
These figures describe what motivates the RC 350 and how much horsepower and torque it delivers to the road.
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 (2GR-FSE)
- Horsepower: 306 hp (approx. 228 kW) @ around 6,400 rpm
- Torque: ~268–277 lb-ft (approximately 364–376 Nm)
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic with manual shift mode
- Drivetrain option: RWD is standard; AWD was available on some markets/trim configurations
These specifications illustrate the RC 350’s power delivery potential and how it can feel when you press the accelerator in everyday driving or on a highway ramp.
Drive and handling dynamics
These figures and features affect how fast the car feels in real-world driving, including acceleration responses and handling discipline.
- 0–60 mph: typically in the mid-5-second range (about 5.6–5.9 seconds depending on drivetrain and tires)
- Top speed: electronically limited, commonly around 130 mph (210 km/h) depending on configuration
- Curb weight: roughly 3,800–3,900 pounds, depending on trim and options
- Chassis/ Suspension: standard setup leans toward comfort; F Sport offers a more athletic, firmer feel with sport-tuned components
These performance factors help explain why the RC 350 feels quick in everyday driving yet remains comfortable and composed on longer trips or in everyday traffic.
Real-world performance and driving experience
In real-world use, the RC 350’s speed is complemented by refined throttle response and smooth power delivery. The 8-speed automatic shifts quickly and quietly, with Sport modes sharpening throttle mapping and shift timing for quicker in-gear acceleration. Weight and aerodynamics limit the top-end pace compared with purpose-built sports cars, but the RC 350 remains competitive in its class for daily performance and highway overtakes, especially in the F Sport variant where suspension tuning emphasizes faster cornering and more direct feedback.
In practice, the RC 350’s quickness is most noticeable in urban merge scenarios and on open highways where a confident mid-range to mid-upper RPM pull helps you maintain speed with less effort. It isn’t designed to rival high-end sports cars with V8 power or extreme lightweight construction, but it does deliver a satisfying, genuinely quick driving experience for a luxury coupe.
Summary
The 2015 Lexus RC 350 offers solid speed for its class thanks to a capable 3.5L V6 and an efficient 8-speed automatic. While it won’t match the outright acceleration of dedicated sports cars, it provides brisk, confident performance, refined ride quality, and good daily usability. For buyers seeking a balance of performance, comfort, and Lexus refinement, the RC 350 stands out as a fast, enjoyable grand-tourer rather than a track-ready sport machine.
Is the Lexus 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.
How fast is the 2015 Lexus RC 350?
The top speed of a 2015 Lexus RC 350 is electronically limited to 143 mph. This is based on manufacturer specifications for the vehicle.
You can watch this video to see the 2015 Lexus RC 350's performance: 52sThe Fast Lane CarYouTube · May 30, 2015
- The 2015 Lexus RC 350 is equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine that produces 306 horsepower.
- The car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.8 seconds.
Does the 2015 Lexus RC 350 have a timing belt or chain?
2015-2018 Lexus RC350 3.5L V6 2GR-FSE DOHC. Timing chain options include both standard and roller chains to provide choices for both OEM and performance engine installations.
Is a 2015 Lexus RC 350 a good car?
Overall, though, the 2015 Lexus RC 350 merits real consideration as a luxurious, well-equipped luxury coupe, which is why it earned an Edmunds "B" rating.
