2018 Lexus RC350 Review

MSRP:  $47,675

Engine: 3.5 Liter V6

Horsepower:  311

Torque:  267

0-60:  5.7 seconds

MPG:  22 as observed

Text:  Yousef Alvi  Photography:  Geoff Dennis

The Lexus RC was designed to disrupt the German dominance of the high end sports coupe market.  Its design language seemingly captures beauty and aggressiveness into one cohesive form.  That form flows into the interior which is another work of functional art.  The switchgear and settings fall perfectly within fingertip control with a satisfying click and snap not found in other makes.  It just makes the Lexus RC feel distinctive inside and out.

So how does it perform?  Well let’s get this out of the way first.  The RC is a heavy car.  But the heaviness has a good trait…stellar ride quality and control.  Nothing upsets the chassis.  One can run over a pebble, rock, boulder or a small house and the RC will barely even flinch.  Now the RC350 is powered by the Lexus ubiquitous 3.5 liter V6 making 311 horsepower and 267 ft/lbs of torque.  It helps shuffle the RC350 from 0-60 in about 5.7 seconds.  It’s decent amount of power around town. 

Does it need more?  Sure it does.  But is it still fun?  Sure it is! 

If fun is one of your priorities then make sure you get the F sport package.  The package adds the variable gear option which makes the steering light when you want it but heavy when you need it.  The package’s limited slip rear differential is another added gem.  Adding prodigious traction at corner exit with just enough wiggle to make one grin.  The F Sport seats offer best in class comfort.  The orange painted brake calipers are an optional extra but my opinion definitely worth the added cost.  It really helps set off the already stellar looking exterior.    

So how does one sum up the 2018 Lexus RC350 F Sport?  It’s a solid, dependable, luxurious alternative to the boring looking German norms.