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What is the difference between the RC300 and the RC350 engine?

The RC300 uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4, while the RC350 employs a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6. This fundamental difference drives most of the variance in power, response, and driving character between the two Lexus RC models.


Both versions sit in the Lexus RC coupe lineup and share the same chassis and general design, but their engines define distinct personalities: the RC300 prioritizes quick, low-end torque and efficiency, while the RC350 emphasizes stronger, smoother high-end power and a more refined engine note. The following sections break down what differentiates them in technical terms, performance, and everyday use.


Engine design and displacement


Understanding the core architecture helps explain why these two cars feel different on the road. The RC300 relies on a turbocharged four-cylinder, whereas the RC350 uses a larger, naturally aspirated V6.


RC300: Turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4


Key design and specification highlights of the RC300 engine are listed below to give a snapshot of what powers this model.



  • Engine type: Turbocharged inline-4

  • Displacement: 2.0 L

  • Engine code: 8AR-FTS (Lexus/Toyota turbo family)

  • Forced induction: Single turbo with intercooler

  • Horsepower: Approximately 241 hp

  • Torque: Approximately 258 lb-ft

  • Direct injection: Yes

  • Compression ratio: Typically in the mid-9s (varies by year)

  • Transmission: 8-speed automatic

  • Drivetrain: RWD standard; AWD available

  • Fuel economy (varies by market/year): Roughly 22–25 mpg city / 30–32 mpg highway


The turbo-four is tuned to deliver strong low- to mid-range torque, which helps with brisk launches and everyday drivability. It also allows for a lighter overall engine weight than a larger V6, contributing to agility in some configurations.


RC350: 3.5-liter V6 (naturally aspirated)


Key design and specification highlights of the RC350 engine are listed below to give a snapshot of what powers this model.



  • Engine type: Naturally aspirated V6

  • Displacement: 3.5 L

  • Engine code: 2GR-FKS (D-4S direct injection)

  • Forced induction: None (NA)

  • Horsepower: Approximately 311 hp

  • Torque: Approximately 280 lb-ft

  • Direct injection: Yes (D-4S)

  • Transmission: 8-speed automatic

  • Drivetrain: RWD standard; AWD available

  • Fuel economy (varies by market/year): Roughly 19–25 mpg city / 28–32 mpg highway


The 3.5-liter V6 is known for smooth, linear power delivery and a more refined engine note at speed. Its larger displacement yields strong mid-range and high-end performance, with a character that many enthusiasts associate with Lexus’ V6 heritage.


Performance and driving experience


Engine choice shapes how each RC feels behind the wheel. The RC300’s turbocharged four pulls strongly from lower revs and helps with quick, confident city-to-highway transitions. The RC350, with its bigger naturally aspirated V6, delivers a more effortless surge and a richer engine soundtrack at higher speeds. Both engines are commonly paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and offer either rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, but their feel, sound, and cost of ownership differ accordingly.


Which one suits your driving style?


For those who prioritize brisk daily driving with strong low-end response and a potentially lower price point, the RC300 can be compelling due to its lighter weight and efficiency advantages. For buyers chasing stronger top-end acceleration, smoother highway cruising, and a more premium V6 character, the RC350 is typically the more satisfying choice.


Maintenance, reliability, and ownership considerations


Maintenance needs differ between turbocharged 4-cylinders and larger V6 engines. Turbocharged engines often require diligent oil changes and cooling attention to sustain turbo health and prevent heat-related wear. The larger V6, while robust, can incur different service costs and parts pricing. Availability of AWD, trim levels (including F-Sport), and regional emission standards can also influence ownership experiences for RC300 vs RC350.


Summary


The RC300 and RC350 differ primarily in their powertrain: a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 versus a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6. The RC300 emphasizes strong low-end torque and efficiency with a lighter feel, while the RC350 emphasizes stronger, smoother power delivery and a more premium V6 character at speed. Both share the same chassis, transmission setup, and available drivetrain options, so your choice comes down to whether you value immediate turbo performance and efficiency (RC300) or refined, high-end power and engine character (RC350).

What engine does a RC 300 have?


3.5-liter V6
3.5-liter V6 with 260 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque (RC 300 AWD)



What is the difference between a Lexus RC 300 and RC 350?


The main difference is that the Lexus RC 350 has a more powerful engine, with 311311311 horsepower compared to the RC 300's 260260260 horsepower (AWD models). The RC 300 is generally more affordable, while the RC 350 offers a significant performance upgrade, making it the sportier choice. Other differences include varying transmission options and potential package differences between trims. 
This video explains the difference between the Lexus RC 300 and RC 350: 57sCar ConfectionsYouTube · Dec 15, 2015
Lexus RC 300

  • Engine: A detuned V6 in AWD models, which produces 260260260 horsepower, or a four-cylinder engine in some RWD versions. 
  • Price: Generally lower starting price than the RC 350. 
  • Performance: Less powerful, which can be a drawback for those seeking quick acceleration. 
  • Fuel Efficiency: Often has better fuel economy, especially in its four-cylinder, rear-wheel-drive configuration. 

Lexus RC 350
  • Engine: A more powerful 311311311 horsepower V6 engine. 
  • Price: Higher starting price than the RC 300. 
  • Performance: Significantly quicker and more responsive, with a faster 0–600 – 600–60 mph time. 
  • Transmission: Some models, like the 2023 RC 350 AWD F Sport, use a 6-speed automatic transmission, while others use an 8-speed. 

Which one should you choose?
  • Choose the RC 300 if: You prioritize a lower purchase price and potentially better fuel economy, and you don't need the extra power of the V6. 
  • Choose the RC 350 if: You want the extra performance and acceleration from the more powerful V6 engine. 



What engine does a Lexus RC350 have?


The Lexus RC 350 is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 311 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This naturally aspirated engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission for rear-wheel drive models, while all-wheel drive versions use a 6-speed automatic.
 
This video is a walkaround of the 2025 Lexus RC350 F Sport: 58sKenny VacekYouTube · May 8, 2025
Engine details

  • Type: 3.5L naturally aspirated V6
  • Horsepower: 311 hp
  • Torque: 280 lb-ft
  • Transmission: 8-speed automatic for RWD, 6-speed automatic for AWD 

Performance and features
  • 0-60 mph: Approximately 5.4-5.8 seconds 
  • Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available 
  • Driving modes: Includes Eco, Sport, Sport Plus, and Normal settings 
  • F SPORT features: Performance models often feature upgraded suspension and other sport-tuned components 

This video shows a quick drive of a 2015 Lexus RC 350: 54sDhruv DrivesYouTube · Aug 9, 2025



What's the difference between a Lexus 300 and a Lexus 350?


The main differences between the Lexus 300 and 350 are performance and price: the 350 generally has a more powerful engine and higher horsepower, while the 300 is more affordable. Specifically, the IS 300 typically features a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, while the IS 350 uses a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine. 
You can watch this video to see a visual comparison of the exterior differences between the IS 300 and IS 350 F-Sport: 1mIBKadeYouTube · Feb 28, 2021

Feature Lexus 300 Lexus 350
Engine Typically a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder (for rear-wheel drive) or a 3.5L V6 (for all-wheel drive) Typically a 3.5L V6
Horsepower Around 241 hp (2.0L Turbo) or 260 hp (3.5L V6) Around 311 hp
Torque Around 258 lb-ft (2.0L Turbo) Around 280 lb-ft
Price Generally more affordable Generally more expensive
Performance Good for daily driving More power for a sportier driving experience
Fuel Economy Generally more fuel-efficient Less fuel-efficient than the 300
Design Standard grille and wheels Often features a more aggressive F-Sport grille and unique wheels (on F-Sport trims)
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This video discusses the differences between the Lexus IS 300 and IS 350, including performance and features: 59sBen HardyYouTube · Jan 9, 2023


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Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.