Flash Drive

2021 Lexus RC 350

December 31, 2021 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2021 Lexus RC 350 F Sport

The 2021 Lexus RC 350 performance coupe is a blast to drive on twisty backroads or even around town.

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

Transmission: 8-speed automatic, rear-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 20-mpg city, 28-mpg highway, 23-mpg combined

Base Price: $49,520

As Tested: $60,310

Performance:

Strong performance

Naturally aspirated with great exhaust note

Respectable fuel economy for a sports car—our best was 26.6-mpg

The body styling is crisp and it reflects the high performance nature of the RC 350.

Performance brakes with orange F Sport calipers

Sharp chrome 10-spoke wheels

Smooth highway ride

Good suite of safety features

Paddle shifters

Drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, S/S+

Separate button for snow and traction off

Sport mode makes noticeable difference

Limited slip rear differential

Front seat room and comfort are excellent, but the backseat is more for storage or an occasional passenger.

Comfort:

High quality, comfortable interior

Great front legroom

Supportive heated and ventilated (3 temps) front seats

Soft, tall headrests

Driver power lumbar

Firm lower back support

Power adjustable tilt/telescopic steering column

Thick slightly contoured heated steering

The high performance F Sport brakes feature distinctive orange calipers.

wheel

Utility:

Long, narrow front door bins

Medium size locking glovebox

Ample trunk space with flat floor

Split folding rear seats

WOW Factors:

Sharp, handsome styling

Strong still naturally aspirated engine

Great exhaust note

Excellent F Sport adaptive suspension

The cockpit is oriented toward the driver with an excellent contoured leather steering wheel.

Very comfortable environment for two adults

Whines:

Super snug rear seat, almost useless

Difficult back seat access

Huge owner’s manual hogs glovebox

Bottom Line:

The 2021 Lexus RC 350 F Sport is a welcome “throwback” performance coupe in a modern sea of jacked up SUVs. Not everyone wants or needs a Baja ready bruiser for daily driving or weekend excursions. The handsome

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

Lexus RC 350 F Sport coupe is a perfect driver’s touring car with lots of room and comfort for two adults and a weekend’s worth of gear/luggage. The Lexus RC 350 is the kind of car that makes you seek out winding backroads, but it’s also a great daily driver or freeway flyer.