Is the Lexus RC 350 V6 or V-8?
The Lexus RC 350 uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine, not a V-8. The V-8 powerplant is reserved for the higher-performance RC F, while other RC variants may use a turbocharged four-cylinder in some markets. This article explains where the RC 350 fits in the lineup and how it compares to related models.
Engine lineup at a glance
Below are the main engine configurations that have appeared in the RC family, with the RC 350’s V6 at the center alongside the V8-powered RC F and the turbo four-cylinders offered in some markets.
- RC 350: 3.5-liter V6 (2GR-FKS) paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission; available in rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD); typical output around 311 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, depending on year and market.
- RC F: 5.0-liter V8 delivering higher performance (roughly 467 horsepower in most versions), designed for sport-focused driving; rear-wheel drive is standard.
- RC 300 / RC 200t (in certain markets): Turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4, offered in specific regions or years; horsepower generally in the mid-200s and varies by market.
In short, if you’re shopping specifically for the RC 350, you’re looking at a V6 powered model rather than a V-8. The RC F is the V-8 option, and some markets have offered a turbo four-cylinder in other RC variants.
How this plays out in practice
The RC 350’s V6 is designed for a balance of smoothness, power, and refinement, making it the everyday-performance choice in the RC lineup. The eight-speed automatic transmission is tuned for quick, seamless shifts, and the drivetrain options (RWD or AWD) influence traction and efficiency. The RC F, on the other hand, is optimized for peak performance with its V8 and sport-focused tuning. Market-specific variants with four-cylinder turbo engines were introduced in some regions, often to align with local emissions and pricing strategies.
Performance and efficiency snapshot
Engine displacement and configuration affect how the RC 350 drives: the V6 delivers strong mid-range punch and a smooth, refined character typical of Lexus. Expect competitive 0-60 times for a well-equipped coupe, with fuel economy estimates generally in the low- to mid-20s mpg range combined, depending on drivetrain and year. The RC F offers noticeably higher performance due to its V8, while turbo-four RC variants prioritize efficiency with lower displacement.
Summary
In conclusion, the Lexus RC 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6, not a V-8. The V-8 option exists for the RC F, the sport-oriented sibling in the lineup. Some markets have offered turbocharged four-cylinder RC variants, but the RC 350 itself is the V6-powered model. If you want pure V8-borne performance, look to the RC F; if you’re after a lighter, turbocharged or V6 option, the RC 300/RC 200t variants (where available) round out the lineup.
