When did the Lexus RC 300 come out?
The Lexus RC 300 badge appeared after the RC lineup’s initial rollout: the RC line began with RC 350 and RC F in 2015, the turbocharged RC 200t arrived in 2016 in several markets, and some regions later adopted the RC 300 designation for that turbo model around 2017–2018.
Context and rollout of the RC family
The RC line is Lexus’s two-door coupe family. It was first shown as a concept in 2013 and then launched in production form for the 2015 model year with the RC 350 and RC F variants. A turbocharged four‑cylinder option joined the lineup as the RC 200t in 2016 in the United States and other markets. Over time, several regions adopted the RC 300 badging to denote the same 2.0‑liter turbo engine, effectively replacing the RC 200t in those markets.
The RC 300 name therefore did not represent a separate, first-launch model year globally; instead, it was a regional naming choice tied to the same turbo engine that debuted as RC 200t. This naming shift varied by market and model year, and the larger RC lineup (RC 350, RC 300h, RC F) continued alongside it.
Timeline highlights by market
The following timeline offers a concise look at how the RC 300 designation appeared in different regions, and how it related to the RC 200t baseline.
- 2014–2015: Lexus unveils and begins selling the RC lineup, starting with RC 350 and RC F in production form.
- 2016 model year: The turbocharged RC 200t (2.0-liter inline-four) is introduced in the United States and other markets as part of the RC family.
- 2017–2018: Several markets begin using the RC 300 badge for the 2.0-liter turbo variant, aligning with Lexus’ regional naming updates.
- 2018–2020s: The RC lineup undergoes minor updates and facelifts, but the RC 300 naming remains in use in some regions for the turbo model, while others keep RC 200t or RC 300 depending on local branding.
In short, the RC 300 badge emerged as a regional rename of the turbocharged RC 200t rather than a separate global launch date. Availability and naming varied by country and year.
Engine options and where the RC 300 fits
Understanding the RC 300 requires seeing where it sits in the broader RC lineup. The main variants typically include:
- RC 300 (turbo): 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4, paired with rear- or all-wheel drive and an automatic transmission in various markets.
- RC 350: 3.5-liter V6 engine, conventional rear-wheel drive (with or without all-wheel drive depending on market).
- RC 300h: Hybrid variant available in some regions, combining a 2.5-liter engine with electric assist.
- RC F: High-performance variant with a 5.0-liter V8.
Engine naming and availability have varied by region and model year, so some markets may show only RC 350 and RC F alongside a turbo model labeled RC 200t or RC 300 rather than having all four variants in a single market.
Notable market variations
Regional differences are a key part of the RC 300 story. Here’s a snapshot of how naming and offerings differed by area.
- United States: The RC lineup launched with RC 350 and RC F; the turbo option appeared as RC 200t in 2016. In some years and materials, the turbo model was also referred to as RC 300 in certain communications.
- Europe and the UK: The turbo variant commonly used the RC 200t designation initially, with some markets transitioning to RC 300 branding as part of a regional naming update.
- Asia and Oceania: Similar patterns to Europe, with regional branding decisions that sometimes used RC 300 for the turbo model, while others kept RC 200t or adopted hybrid badging like RC 300h.
Because Lexus periodically revises naming and trim levels by market, it’s best to check local dealer materials or the official Lexus region site for the exact designation used in a given country and model year.
Summary
The Lexus RC 300 did not debut as a separate global model at a single launch date. It emerged as a regional badge for the 2.0-liter turbo variant that started life as the RC 200t around 2016, with many markets adopting the RC 300 name in 2017–2018. The RC lineup also includes the RC 350, RC 300h, and RC F, and exact availability and naming depend on the country and model year.
Is the Lexus RC 300 being discontinued?
The final model year RCs and RC Fs will be landing in dealers starting in the first quarter of 2025. After this year, the RCs are discontinued.
What are the RC 300's common problems?
The most common recall is: Fuel Pump Inside Fuel Tank Fails Causing Engine Stall While Driving.
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.
Is the Lexus RC 300 fast?
With this engine, the RC 300 can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds and reach a top track speed of 143 mph.
