The 2021 Lexus RC 350 is an eye-catching luxury sport coupe that leans more toward comfort than all-out performance. The Lexus RC has been on sale since 2015 and has gotten a few refreshes over the years. Updates for 2021 include the new Black Line Special Edition. Limited to just 350 units, it comes with some special interior and exterior styling details plus a set of custom luggage. The rest of the RC carries over unchanged. While the RC 350 isn't as sporty as its design might suggest, its well-crafted cabin is quieter and more comfortable than the interiors of many competitors.

Its main rivals all hail from Germany. The new BMW 4 Series is the latest addition to this class. Its schnoz is as striking — and divisive — as the RC 350's spindle grille. Looks aside, we found the new 4 Series to be sporty and athletic without compromising comfort. The Audi A5 was just updated too, with revised looks and an updated infotainment system. Then there's the Mercedes-Benz C-Class coupe. It's as old as the RC 350 but, like the Lexus, it doesn't feel all that dated when you slip behind the wheel. Check out our Expert Rating below to get our in-depth evaluation on this year's RC.

Edmunds' Expert Rating
7.2/10
The RC 350 exists in a space between a grand-touring coupe and a sports car. It never really settles into either role, but it does deliver on the luxury coupe experience with excellent build quality and eye-catching styling. A frustrating tech interface and tight interior, however, make it tough to fully recommend.
Outright performance isn't the game the RC 350 prefers to play. Accelerating to 60 mph takes 6.2 seconds. That's not as quick as most of its competition, especially those fitted with six-cylinder engines.

The F Sport's available summer performance tires return fairly good braking and handling numbers should you decide to drive with some gusto. The car responds well to steering inputs but lacks the eagerness to change direction you might expect in a sport coupe. Much of that comes down to the RC's 3,800-pound curb weight. But the RC 350 will inspire confidence and is ultimately easy to handle at the limit.
Tight interior aside, the RC provides the level of suppleness you'd expect from a luxury brand. The well-bolstered seats help keep you in place while cornering, but the bolsters aren't so large that they make the seats uncomfortable.

The stiff, sporty ride matches the RC 350's visuals. In short, it's busy over less than perfect surfaces and can be tiring over longer drives. The RC 350 is pretty quiet, though. Road and wind noise is minimal at any speed.
The RC is one of the larger luxury coupes in the segment, but it has the smallest interior. We struggle to think who the rear seats would serve. Even small children will find the lack of rear legroom a problem. As with many coupes, the RC's long doors can be an issue in tight parking lots.

It takes a while to get used to the layout of the center stack's organization and the types of inputs — both physical and touch-sensitive — but it makes sense after practice. The touchpad that controls the entertainment system requires too much attention from the driver.
The large entertainment screen looks impressive, but it's frustrating to operate. It locks out many functions while the RC is in motion — that might be a good thing because of how cumbersome it is. Phone integration now includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay at least. And the optional Mark Levinson audio system sounds terrific.

The adaptive cruise control manages speed without needing much driver input. Unfortunately, it doesn't work under 25 mph, so it's ineffective during the most frustrating parts of the commute. You also have to be ready on the brake pedal for when traffic slows and the system stops working.
The RC's trunk is one of the smallest in this class. You can get more room by lowering the rear seats, but you can't do so from the trunk. You have to climb into the back to reach the release switches.

The center console has just enough room for a few phones. The door pockets fall on the smaller side of the spectrum, and there are just two cupholders. Outside of these options, the back seat becomes the main storage space for larger bags and sports water bottles.
With an EPA combined rating of 23 mpg, the rear-wheel-drive RC 350 returns slightly below average fuel economy for the class. Adding all-wheel drive lowers that number further. Competitors with similar performance are able to achieve better highway mpg. We averaged 20.7 mpg over the course of 365 miles in our test car.
The RC boasts meticulous attention to detail. The interior panel gaps are uniform throughout, and the absence of squeaks and rattles provides a sense of quality assembly. Some plastic materials, especially the panel that surrounds the center clock and air vents, look slightly out of place.

You'll likely pay less to get an RC compared to some rival coupes, and you get some true highlights for the money, such as the sound system and the build quality. But German competitors offer more performance, interior space and fuel economy for your dollar.
It's tough to classify the RC 350 since it straddles the line between a grand tourer and a sport coupe without embodying either particularly well. But that's not to say it's without merit. There's some flash to the design both inside and out, and the engine delivers pleasing performance without any fuss.

Which RC 350 does Edmunds recommend?

The 2021 RC 350 is available in two trims, and we suggest going with the top-level F Sport model with rear-wheel drive. It adds features such as an adaptive suspension, and it's available with performance options including a limited-slip differential that helps the RC 350's handling match its sharp styling.

Lexus RC 350 models

The 2021 Lexus RC 350 is available in two trim levels: base and F Sport. Both are powered by a 3.5-liter non-turbocharged V6 engine (311 hp, 280 lb-ft) that sends power to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available on both models. The turbocharged four-cylinder RC 300 and high-performance RC F are reviewed separately.

Base
The base RC 350 comes fairly well equipped from the get-go. Standard features include:

18-inch wheels
LED headlights and taillights
Keyless entry with push-button start
10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, eight-way power-adjustable passenger seat
Heated front seats (all-wheel-drive models)
Dual-zone automatic climate control
7-inch infotainment screen
Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa and Android Auto integration
Two USB ports
In-car Wi-Fi with three-month subscription
10-speaker audio system

Standard driver aids include:

Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while reversing)
Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Lane departure mitigation (warns you of a lane departure when a turn signal isn't used and can automatically steer to maintain lane position)
Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the vehicle and the car in front)
Automatic high beams

Lexus offers a handful of options such as:

Black Line Special Edition

Triple-beam LED headlights
19-inch black chrome wheels
Black upholstery with silver stitching
Wood interior trim
Zero Halliburton luggage

Navigation package

10.3-inch infotainment screen
Navigation
In-dash CD and DVD player

Navigation/Mark Levinson Premium Audio package

Navigation package features
17-speaker audio system with subwoofer
Aluminum control knobs

Premium package

Heated and ventilated seats
Heated, auto-dimming exterior mirrors
Rain-sensing wipers
Power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel

Parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible behind the vehicle when parking)
Moonroof
Heated steering wheel

F Sport
The F Sport builds on the standard RC 350 with features including:

F Sport-tuned adaptive suspension
Upgraded brakes
19-inch wheels
F Sport steering wheel
F Sport front seats
Heated and ventilated seats
Heated, auto-dimming exterior mirrors
Rain-sensing wipers
Power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel
Aluminum pedals
Black headliner

Options include those available on the base RC 350, but the F Sport also offers a few performance options such as:

Lexus Dynamic Handling System (upgrades suspension and adds rear-wheel steering for improved handling)
Torsen limited-slip rear differential for improved traction (rear-wheel-drive models)

Save as much as $4,228 with Edmunds

2021 Lexus RC 350 pricing

in Ashburn, VA

F SPORT

3.5L 6cyl 8A

$46,690

1 for sale in 20147

msrp

*Disclaimer

MSRP excludes delivery, processing and handling fee of $1,025, which may be subject to change at any time. Excludes taxes, title, license and optional equipment. Dealer price will vary.

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Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2021 Lexus RC 350.

Average user rating: 2.0 stars

1 total reviews

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Most helpful consumer reviews

2/5 stars, Very disappointing

Field110, 04/29/2021

F SPORT 2dr Coupe AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)

The 2021 Lexus RC 350 AWD F-sport in InfraRed is one of my dream cars, but what a disappointment. I tried getting a 2020 model in late 2020 but the car were either sold or had dealer demo/executive miles on them, so ordered a new one. For 2021 the RC 350 AWD had an increase in the MPG rating, this rating is mainly from transmission tuning. The 6 speed transmission now tries to shift

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Features & Specs

Trim

Base MSRP: $45,150

MPG & Fuel: 21 City / 31 Hwy / 25 Combined; Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.4 gal. capacity

Seating: 4 seats

Drivetrain: Type: rear wheel drive; Transmission: 8-speed shiftable automatic

Engine: V6 cylinder; Horsepower: 311 hp @ 6600 rpm; Torque: 280 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm

Basic Warranty: 4 yr./ 50000 mi.

Dimensions: Length: 185.0 in. / Height: 54.9 in. / Width: 72.4 in.; Curb Weight: 3748 lbs.; Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 10.4 cu.ft.

See all features & specs

Build Your RC 350

At a Glance:

8 Colors
2 Trims
$45,050starting MSRP

Safety

Our experts’ favorite RC 350 safety features:

Pre-Collision System: Warns the driver of a possible impact with pedestrians or other cars. Can automatically apply the brakes if necessary.
Lane Departure Alert with Keeping Assist: Warns you when the car's drifting out of your lane and intervenes with steering input if needed.
Safety Connect: Includes automatic collision notification, an emergency assist button and stolen vehicle location services.

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Side Impact Test	Good
Roof Strength Test	Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint	Good
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test	Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test	Good

Lexus RC 350 vs. the competition

2021 Lexus RC 350

2021 Audi A5

Lexus RC 350 vs. Audi A5

The Audi A5 was recently updated with a new infotainment system and slightly revised exterior styling, making one of the best luxury coupes on the road even better. It's handsome, comfortable and reasonably sporty. It's also available with a wide array of tech and drive aids. Standard all-wheel drive makes it quicker than the RC 350 even though it has significantly less power.

Compare Lexus RC 350 & Audi A5 features

Lexus RC 350 vs. BMW 4 Series

The BMW 4 Series was recently redesigned, moving to a platform that shares much with the 3 Series sedan. Contentious design aside, we found the new coupe to be sporty and quick without compromising comfort. The base four-cylinder is underpowered compared to the Lexus' V6 but offers better performance. Cargo space is surprisingly good, but passenger space is compromised by the standard sunroof.

Compare Lexus RC 350 & BMW 4 Series features

Lexus RC 350 vs. Mercedes-Benz C-Class

The C-Class and the RC 350 were both introduced in 2015, and both are showing their age compared to newer luxury coupes. The C-Class offers more passenger space up front than the Lexus, and we prefer the C-Class' infotainment system to the one in the Lexus. The Mercedes feels a bit more refined than the RC on the road, though we suggest skipping the optional sport suspension.

Compare Lexus RC 350 & Mercedes-Benz C-Class features

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FAQ

Is the Lexus RC 350 a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 RC 350 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.2 out of 10. You probably care about Lexus RC 350 fuel economy, so it's important to know that the RC 350 gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg to 25 mpg, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the RC 350 has 10.4 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Lexus RC 350. Learn more

What's new in the 2021 Lexus RC 350?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Lexus RC 350:

Blind-spot monitoring now standard across the lineup
New limited-production Black Line Special Edition model
Part of the first RC generation introduced for 2015

Learn more

Is the Lexus RC 350 reliable?

To determine whether the Lexus RC 350 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the RC 350. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the RC 350's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2021 Lexus RC 350 a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Lexus RC 350 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 RC 350 and gave it a 7.2 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 RC 350 is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2021 Lexus RC 350?

The least-expensive 2021 Lexus RC 350 is the 2021 Lexus RC 350 2dr Coupe (3.5L 6cyl 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $45,150.

Other versions include:

F SPORT 2dr Coupe AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) which starts at $51,230
2dr Coupe AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) which starts at $47,315
2dr Coupe (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $45,150
F SPORT 2dr Coupe (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $49,620

Learn more

What are the different models of Lexus RC 350?

If you're interested in the Lexus RC 350, the next question is, which RC 350 model is right for you? RC 350 variants include F SPORT 2dr Coupe AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A), 2dr Coupe AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A), 2dr Coupe (3.5L 6cyl 8A), and F SPORT 2dr Coupe (3.5L 6cyl 8A). For a full list of RC 350 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more

More about the 2021 Lexus RC 350

2021 Lexus RC 350 Overview

The 2021 Lexus RC 350 is offered in the following submodels: RC 350 Coupe. Available styles include F SPORT 2dr Coupe AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A), 2dr Coupe AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A), 2dr Coupe (3.5L 6cyl 8A), and F SPORT 2dr Coupe (3.5L 6cyl 8A). Lexus RC 350 models are available with a 3.5 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 311 hp, depending on engine type. The 2021 Lexus RC 350 comes with all wheel drive, and rear wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic, 8-speed shiftable automatic. The 2021 Lexus RC 350 comes with a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. basic warranty, a 4 yr./ unlimited mi. roadside warranty, and a 6 yr./ 70000 mi. powertrain warranty.

What do people think of the 2021 Lexus RC 350?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2021 Lexus RC 350 and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2021 RC 350 2.0 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 RC 350.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 Lexus RC 350 and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 RC 350 featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

What's a good price for a New 2021 Lexus RC 350?

2021 Lexus RC 350 2dr Coupe (3.5L 6cyl 8A)

The 2021 Lexus RC 350 2dr Coupe (3.5L 6cyl 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $46,175. The average price paid for a new 2021 Lexus RC 350 2dr Coupe (3.5L 6cyl 8A) is trending $4,228 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $4,228 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $41,947.

The average savings for the 2021 Lexus RC 350 2dr Coupe (3.5L 6cyl 8A) is 9.2% below the MSRP.

2021 Lexus RC 350 F SPORT 2dr Coupe (3.5L 6cyl 8A)

The 2021 Lexus RC 350 F SPORT 2dr Coupe (3.5L 6cyl 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $50,645. The average price paid for a new 2021 Lexus RC 350 F SPORT 2dr Coupe (3.5L 6cyl 8A) is trending $3,955 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $3,955 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $46,690.

The average savings for the 2021 Lexus RC 350 F SPORT 2dr Coupe (3.5L 6cyl 8A) is 7.8% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 1 2021 Lexus RC 350 F SPORT 2dr Coupe (3.5L 6cyl 8A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburn area.

Which 2021 Lexus RC 350s are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2021 Lexus RC 350 for sale near. There are currently 1 new 2021 RC 350s listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $60,210 and mileage as low as 30 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2021 Lexus RC 350.

Can't find a new 2021 Lexus RC 350s you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Find a new Lexus for sale - 10 great deals out of 18 listings starting at $15,587.

Why trust Edmunds?

Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.

What is the MPG of a 2021 Lexus RC 350?

2021 Lexus RC 350 F SPORT 2dr Coupe AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A), 6-speed shiftable automatic, premium unleaded (required)
22 compined MPG,
19 city MPG/26 highway MPG

2021 Lexus RC 350 2dr Coupe AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A), 6-speed shiftable automatic, premium unleaded (required)
22 compined MPG,
19 city MPG/26 highway MPG

2021 Lexus RC 350 2dr Coupe (3.5L 6cyl 8A), 8-speed shiftable automatic, premium unleaded (required)
25 compined MPG,
21 city MPG/31 highway MPG

EPA Est. MPG	22
Transmission	6-speed shiftable automatic
Drive Train	all wheel drive
Displacement	3.5 L
Passenger Volume	94.2 cu.ft.

Wheelbase	107.5 in.
Length	185.0 in.
Width	72.4 in.
Height	55.1 in.
Curb Weight	3891 lbs.

Should I lease or buy a 2021 Lexus RC 350?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Check out Lexus lease specials