The 2023 Lexus RC 350 AWD F Sport is a car that promises much with its aggressive styling but fails to deliver on the road. As a seasoned automotive journalist who’s spent over a decade reviewing cars, I found myself increasingly frustrated with the RC 350’s lackluster performance and outdated features.
A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing
From the menacing black hood to the vibrant yellow interior accents, the RC 350 F Sport screams performance. But under the hood, it’s a different story. The aging 3.5-liter V6, virtually unchanged in over 15 years, produces a decent 311 horsepower but lacks the low-end torque and responsiveness one expects from a modern sports coupe.
Disappointing Performance and Handling
The six-speed automatic transmission, a relic in today’s eight-speed world, exacerbates the problem, making it difficult to keep the engine in its power band. The result? A 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds, which feels downright pedestrian compared to rivals like the BMW M440i, which achieves the same feat in a blistering 4 seconds flat.
Handling is equally underwhelming. Despite the F Sport’s sporty aspirations, the RC 350 feels heavy and reluctant to change direction with noticeable body roll and a lack of steering feel. This is not a car that enjoys being pushed hard, which feels almost counterintuitive to its design.
Interior Luxury with a Few Caveats
Lexus has always excelled in interior craftsmanship, and the RC 350 is no exception. The cabin is swathed in supple leather, and the F Sport’s yellow accents add a touch of sportiness. However, some cheap plastics and an outdated infotainment system detract from the premium feel. The trackpad controller, while thankfully complemented by a touchscreen, is still a frustrating experience.
The Verdict: A Poser’s Dream
The 2023 Lexus RC 350 AWD F Sport is a car caught between two worlds. It tries to be a comfortable grand tourer and a sharp sports coupe but fails to excel in either. While its striking looks might turn heads, its lackluster performance and outdated features leave much to be desired.
For drivers seeking a genuinely engaging and capable sports coupe, a plethora of compelling options exist in this price range, from the BMW M240xi to the Audi S3. These cars offer a potent blend of performance, handling, and technology that the RC 350 simply can’t match.
Have you had any experiences with the Lexus RC 350? Share your thoughts in the comments below.