2019 Lexus RC350: A Closer Look

Car - Front

The RC coupe is a great choice for those seeking a sportier ride with luxurious features. In the past five years, the factory has cranked out only about 40K units for the entire RC lineup. That includes the RC300 four-cylinder, RC-F V-8, and RC350 V-6 as seen here. Plenty of updates were done on the 2019 models, and more are expected on the 2020 model that will arrive next year. Until then, the 2019 car as seen here carries on and is worth a look. 

Engine

The RC350 uses a 3.5 liter V-6 that has been proven over many years of use. The engine cranks out 311 horsepower using premium fuel as the choice of beverage. The powerplant is hooked to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 0-60 mph time is claimed to be 5.8 seconds but carries a fuel economy rated at 20/28 mpg or 23 overall. Buyers who want more power can opt for the upgraded RC-F, with a potent 467 horsepower V-8 for a bit more coin. For about $3K less, the milder RC300, with the 241 hp engine can be purchased with a more economical fuel economy of 21/30 mpg. As you can see there is a choice for all tastes, but the V-6 car is the most practical of the lot.  

>>Join the conversation about the 2019 RC350 right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

Gauges

The driving position is excellent, and the instrument cluster is well designed showcasing every ounce of information a driver would need. There are two large gauges, with an information screen between the two that brings up useful information such as tire pressure readings. Rear seat space is limited, but the quality of materials and workmanship is first-rate. So, while you may not be able to comfortably fit a taller person, they will get to be amongst amazing fit and finish in the backseat. 

>>Join the conversation about the 2019 RC350 right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

Shifter

For drivers who want to shift for themselves, the RC has a pair of sturdy paddles mounted onto the steering wheel. These allow manual gear selection right at the fingertips, regardless of wheel position. Mounting them to the steering wheel works great when shifting in corners and is also much safer this way. The control buttons on the front of the steering wheel are easy to reach, and large enough to operate when wearing gloves.

>>Join the conversation about the 2019 RC350 right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

Touch pad

Unlike many other vehicles that use a mouse to operate the infotainment system, the RC models use a finger touchpad. This brings up icons like audio, destination, phone, apps, vehicle info, and more. In addition to the touchpad interface, a map button brings up the navigation view menu.

>>Join the conversation about the 2019 RC350 right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

Mode Knob

This large knob offers three modes of driving: ECO, NORMAL, and SPORT. Below that dial are buttons to change dynamics for driving in various conditions: snow and deactivating traction control. There are also creature comfort buttons such as heated seats to keep you cozy on those colder driving sessions.

>>Join the conversation about the 2019 RC350 right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

HVAC

The sound system has two very large and simple knobs, the left for volume, and right for tuning stations, with five smaller buttons in-between. Above those, there are 10 simple buttons for the climate control system. However, there are no buttons or knobs for the temperature settings. Instead, all of that is controlled by an intuitive finger touch set up on each side. Each tap will change the temperature by one degree, or slide your finger all the way up/down for a quicker change. It is an unusual design, but works especially well.

>>Join the conversation about the 2019 RC350 right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

Price

The base price of $44,075 is certainly reasonable for a smaller production sport coupe. But being a luxury brand, the options list can grow quite large if you let it. This RC was loaded up with all the extras, so it priced out at $52,670 but it well appointed. Still, this is no more than what many European automakers charge for a similar class of vehicle. Albeit, with the Lexus you know the reliability is much much better. 

>>Join the conversation about the 2019 RC350 right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

Car - Rear

The RC series carries on for 2019 and 2020 and offers buyers great styling, brisk performance, decent fuel economy, and unmatched reliability. Anyone shopping for a sport coupe should give it a look as we feel there are enough flavors to satisfy almost everyone. 

>>Join the conversation about the 2019 RC350 right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

For help with service of your car, check out the how to section of CLubLexus.com