Flash Drive

2019 Lexus RC 350 AWD

December 3, 2019 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2019 Lexus RC 350 AWD

The 2019 Lexus RC 350 has stunning styling from all angles.

Engine:3.5-liter V-6, 311 horsepower 280 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 6-speed automatic, all-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 18-mpg city, 24-mpg highway, 21-mpg combined

Base Price: $46,240

As Tested: $54,630

Performance:

Strong, smooth V-6 engine

Smooth automatic transmission

Paddle shifters

When equipped with AWD the Lexus RC 350 can handle all types of road and weather conditions.

Dial for Eco, Normal, and Sport modes

Separate button for snow mode

AWD for improved handling and traction

Excellent safety features

Comfortable highway ride

Comfort:

NBA player legroom in front

Minimal legroom back seat, but better with fronts moved up

Excellent headroom

Very comfortable, supportive seats

The front seats are spacious, supportive and have lots of legroom.

Soft headrests

Heated and ventilated (3 temperatures)

Thick, contoured, heated leather steering wheel

Lots of auxiliary controls, but not well marked

Large range power tilt/telescopic column

Power lumbar support for driver

Utility:

Good trunk size for a coupe (10.4 cubic feet)

Flat trunk floor

Big wheels and big brakes are part of the Lexus RC 350’s performance prowess.

Wide opening, but high lift-over

Four cargo loops

Folding rear seats

Medium size door bins

Locking medium size glovebox

Lexus touchpad for infotainment controls

WOW Factors:

Slick, athletic styling

Strong impress the neighbors factor

Wonderful weekend grand touring getaway car

A big dial on the center console controls the various drive modes.

Spacious (front seats) high quality interior

Lexus/Toyota excellent reliability reputation

Whines:

A little thirsty on gas—we got 15-mpg city

Rear seats best for gear, not people

We’re still struggling to master the touchpad controller

Bottom Line:

The 2019 Lexus RC 350 AWD is one of those cars that you turn around and take a longing look every time you walk away from it. Its stunning

The 2019 Lexus RC 350 cuts a dashing figure slicing through city traffic.

styling is backed by equally impressive performance and interior comfort. The Lexus RC 350 AWD is ostensibly a four-passenger car, but it’s really a deluxe two-seater with room for coats and packages in the backseat area. The V-6 powered RC 350 is a strong performer, but if you need more horses there is the 467 horsepower V-8.