What engine is in the 2016 RC350 F Sport?
The 2016 RC350 F Sport is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine (the Lexus/Toyota 2GR-FSE), producing about 306 horsepower and roughly 277 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Beyond the headline figures, the RC350 F Sport keeps the engine largely unchanged from other RC350 models, focusing its F Sport tuning on chassis, brakes, and handling to deliver a more responsive driving experience while maintaining Lexus’s luxury refinement.
Under the hood: the engine at a glance
Here are the core specifications of the engine used in the 2016 RC350 F Sport.
- Displacement: 3.5 liters
- Configuration: V6
- Valvetrain: Dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) with Dual VVT-i
- Induction: Dual injection system (port and direct) via D-4S
- Power: 306 horsepower at about 6,400 rpm
- Torque: 277 lb-ft at about 4,800 rpm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
In summary, the RC350 F Sport relies on Lexus’s 2GR-FSE 3.5-liter V6, delivering strong mid-range torque and smooth, linear power delivery through an 8-speed automatic transmission.
F Sport specifics: how the package sharpens the drive
The F Sport designation enhances the RC350’s behavior without changing the fundamental engine output. The changes focus on handling, braking, and styling to deliver a more driver-focused feel while keeping the same engine and transmission lineup as the non-F Sport RC350 models.
Key F Sport enhancements
- Sport-tuned suspension for flatter cornering and reduced body roll
- Stiffer braking hardware and sportier brake feel
- F Sport exterior and interior styling elements to emphasize performance character
- Enhanced steering calibration for more direct response
These upgrades work in concert with the RC350’s 3.5-liter V6 to deliver a more engaging driving experience, particularly on winding roads or when driving aggressively, while preserving Lexus’s emphasis on ride quality and refinement.
Performance context and takeaway
With its 3.5-liter V6 and 306 horsepower, the RC350 F Sport sits in a competitive space for near-luxury sport coupes, offering a balance of brisk acceleration, responsive handling, and a comfortable interior. The engine remains a familiar, robust choice in Lexus’s lineup, and the F Sport package tailors the experience toward a more dynamic, sporty character without sacrificing everyday usability.
Summary
The 2016 RC350 F Sport uses a 3.5-liter V6 (2GR-FSE) delivering about 306 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, mated to an 8-speed automatic. The F Sport trim focuses on enhanced handling, braking, and styling to create a more performance-oriented driving experience while keeping the engine essentially unchanged from the standard RC350 powertrain.
