Monday, December 4, 2017

2017 Lexus RC 350: The Brand's Luxury Coupe




Highlight: The two-door coupe is available with a 4-cylinder, 6-cylinder or an 8-cylinder engine.

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $53,985 (Base model: $41,150)

Seating Capacity: 4 (2 small kids in the rear)

Standard Safety Features: ABS; Daytime Running Lights; a vehicle stability control system; traction control system; and heated outside rearview mirrors  

Standard Equipment (Base 4-Cylinder Model): 18-inch wheels; rear wheel drive; an electronic fuel injection system an 8-speed automatic transmission; a push button keyless ignition system; an automatic rearview mirror; a manually operated tilt/telescopic steering wheel; dual chrome exhaust system; and power front seats



Standard Equipment (RWD Coupe): a 6-cylinder engine; 306-horsepower; and a direct to cylinder injection system (plus secondary port injectors)

Options On Test Vehicle: windshield deicer and headlamp cleaner; LED foglamps; 19-inch wheels and tires; and triple beam LED headlamps;  a blindspot monitor with a rear cross traffic alert system; heated/ventilated front seats; electric outside mirrors with a tilt-down reverse feature; perforated leather trimmed interior with contrast stitching; a power tilt/telescopic steering wheel; rain sensing wipers; and a two-position driver’s seat, mirror and steering column; a navigation system; a rear camera; a remote touchpad controller; a radar-activated cruise control system; a remote touchpad controller; a trunk cargo net; and a power moonroof

Other Trim Level:

RC F

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: a 10-speaker AM/FM/CD/HD with a satellite radio

Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes

USB Connectivity: Yes

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 6 years or 70,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder/241-hp

Recommended Fuel: Premium

Standard Fuel Mileage:
22-city/32-hwy


What’s New: For the 2017 model year, the vehicle receives a few subtle changes such as a black grille finish and new finishes for the wheels. The 350 RWD trim gets new performance suspension dampers.

Why: Lexus’ eye-catching coupe is available in a rear wheel drive or an all-wheel drive configuration. The luxury coupe is also powered by three powertrains: a 4-cylinder turbo, a 6-cylinder and an 8-cylinder engine.

The RC is one of the most engaging driving vehicles in the Lexus line up. The Japanese automaker has found the perfect balance in both the driving dynamics and handling capabilities that does not leave one tired and worn out after spending time behind the wheel.

The RC can also be easily adjusted to provide a variety of driving modes: normal, sport and manual. And for those who opt for the more aggressive looking F-sport package, the driver has an opportunity to select from the aforementioned Sport S+ mode.


The two door Lexus embodies everything one expects from the luxury brand. The RC is outfitted with such high end amenities as leather seats, a high quality audio system and rear back up camera. The vehicle even includes a touchpad system which duplicates controls from the infotainment system. All of this and more is wrapped in a package that has all of the right exterior curves and shapes, making this sexy vehicle, with its athletic looking curves, a standout in terms of the overall design.

But: This is really a two seater with storage room in the rear seating area or in some cases room for small kids.

And, while we haven’t been behind the wheel of the 4-cylinder turbo, beside the brand attempting to meet CAFÉ regulations, we’re not sure if this aids the fun to drive factor buyers in this segment are seeking.

Lastly, it wouldn’t hurt if the engineers paired this vehicle with a manual transmission. Could you imagine how this would heighten the fun factor?


Verdict: In a market where consumers are passing up coupes and sedans to snap up crossovers, trucks and SUVs, the RC is one the brand’s diamonds in the rough. For buyers seeking a driver oriented vehicles, which offers performance with its six and eight-cylinder powertrains a head-turning design and the latest safety driving aids, the RC (and RC-F) are worthy contenders to consider.

Buyers in the market for a coupe, should be able to get a steal on this vehicle.

Competition: BMW 3-Series Coupe and Infiniti Q60

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