Pros: Smooth-for-the-class ride quality; luxurious trimmings inside and out; good front-seat headroom and leg room; crisp performance from 8-speed transmission; vigorous acceleration in RC F model
Cons: Not all testers like touchpad controller; back seat is cramped and difficult to access; styling is too aggressive for some
CG Says: For its second year, the 2016 Lexus RC gains two new engine choices. A 241-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission powers the RC 200t. The all-wheel drive RC 300 is powered by a 255-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 with a 6-speed automatic. A limited-slip differential is now optional on RC 200t and rear-drive 350 F Sports. The RC is a sporty, low-slung two-door coupe with a performance-oriented “grand tourer” personality. In addition to the models already mentioned, there are two more: The RC 350 is available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and has a 306-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. The high-performance RC F is rear-wheel drive only and is powered by a 467-hp 5.0-liter V8. Standard features on the RC include keyless access and starting, rear-obstacle detection, Lexus Enform Remote (which allows remote viewing and control of some functions), and Siri Eyes Free for iPhone users. Options include leather upholstery, navigation system, rearview camera, heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, blind-spot and rear cross-traffic alert, and memory driver seat. Also optional is Lexus Enform App Suite, which includes apps such as Pandora, Bing, Yelp, and iHeartRadio. An F Sport package ups the sportiness level of the RC 200t/300/350 via adaptive variable suspension and rear-wheel steering (the latter on rear-drive models only), along with unique interior and exterior trim. In addition to its muscular V8 engine, the RC F boasts high-performance features such as a sport-tuned suspension, Brembo-brand brakes, and distinctive bodywork, plus an available torque-vectoring rear differential and active rear spoiler (which deploys at around 50 mph). Though they’re not the most ferocious performers in their class, the RC 350 and RC F offer an intriguing blend of performance and luxury with unforgettable styling.
| Class | Premium Sporty/Performance Car |
| Body Style(s) | 2-door coupe |
| Passenger Count | 4 |
| Drive Wheels | rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Lexus |
| Nation of Manufacture | Japan |
| Base Prices | RC 200t: $39,995 RC 200t F Sport: $44,100 AWD RC 300: $42,610 AWD RC 300 F Sport: $46,310 RC 350: $42,780 RC 350 F Sport: $46,885 AWD RC 350: $45,015 AWD RC 350 F Sport: $48,715 RC F: $62,805 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 241 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 22 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 32 |
| Optional Engine 3.5-liter V6 |
| Horsepower 255 (306 in RC 350) |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission 6-speed automatic (AWD) |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 19 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 26-28 |
| Optional Engine 5.0-liter V8 |
| Horsepower 467 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 16 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 25 |
