Lexus RC 350 F Sport 2016: Review, Specs, And Performance

by Alex Braham 58 views

Hey guys! Are you looking for a sleek, sporty coupe that delivers both style and performance? Well, buckle up because we're diving deep into the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport. This car isn't just about looking good; it's about offering a thrilling driving experience wrapped in Lexus's signature luxury. Let's explore what makes this ride a standout choice for car enthusiasts.

Overview of the Lexus RC 350 F Sport 2016

The 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport is a luxury sport coupe that blends eye-catching design with engaging performance. As part of the RC lineup, the F Sport trim enhances the car's sporty character with unique styling cues, upgraded features, and a more dynamic driving feel. This model year offers a compelling mix of comfort, technology, and performance, making it a popular choice among those seeking a premium driving experience. The RC 350 F Sport stands out with its aggressive front fascia, distinctive mesh grille, and F Sport badging, setting it apart from the standard RC models. These visual enhancements not only contribute to the car's sporty appeal but also hint at the performance upgrades beneath the surface. Inside, the cabin is adorned with F Sport-specific seats, aluminum pedals, and a sporty steering wheel, creating an immersive and driver-focused environment. Beyond aesthetics, the RC 350 F Sport benefits from a sport-tuned suspension, which sharpens handling and provides a more engaging driving experience. This makes the car feel more responsive and agile, whether you're navigating tight corners or cruising on the open road. Under the hood, the RC 350 F Sport packs a punch with its 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering ample power and smooth acceleration. The engine's performance is complemented by a well-calibrated transmission, ensuring seamless gear changes and optimal power delivery. Overall, the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport is a well-rounded package that offers a blend of luxury, style, and performance, making it a compelling option in the luxury sport coupe segment.

Key Features

  • Engine: 3.5-liter V6
  • Horsepower: 306 hp
  • Transmission: 8-speed automatic (RWD), 6-speed automatic (AWD)
  • Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive or All-wheel drive
  • Distinctive F Sport Styling: Unique mesh grille, rear spoiler, and badging.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport doesn't disappoint. The heart of this beast is a 3.5-liter V6 engine, which churns out an impressive 306 horsepower. This power plant provides brisk acceleration and a satisfying surge of power whenever you need it. Whether you're merging onto the highway or overtaking slower traffic, the RC 350 F Sport responds with enthusiasm. The engine is paired with either an 8-speed automatic transmission for the rear-wheel-drive model or a 6-speed automatic for the all-wheel-drive version. Both transmissions offer smooth and precise gear changes, contributing to a refined driving experience. However, the 8-speed automatic in the RWD model is particularly noteworthy for its responsiveness and ability to keep the engine in its optimal power range. Handling is another area where the RC 350 F Sport shines. The sport-tuned suspension provides a firm and controlled ride, minimizing body roll in corners and inspiring confidence behind the wheel. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback from the road. This allows you to feel connected to the car and accurately place it on the road. The F Sport package also includes performance-enhancing features such as Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), which adjusts the damping force of the shock absorbers based on driving conditions. This helps to further improve handling and ride quality, providing a comfortable yet sporty driving experience. Overall, the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport delivers a compelling blend of power, agility, and refinement. It's a car that's equally at home on a twisty back road as it is on the open highway, making it a versatile choice for driving enthusiasts. For those who prioritize performance and handling, the RC 350 F Sport is definitely worth considering.

Driving Experience

The driving experience of the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport is truly something special. From the moment you slide into the driver's seat, you're greeted with a sense of luxury and sportiness. The F Sport seats are well-bolstered and supportive, holding you firmly in place during spirited driving. The sporty steering wheel feels great in your hands, and the aluminum pedals add a touch of flair to the cabin. When you start the engine, the V6 roars to life with a refined growl, hinting at the performance that lies beneath the surface. As you pull away, the RC 350 F Sport feels responsive and eager to please. The engine delivers smooth and linear power, making it easy to modulate your speed. The transmission shifts seamlessly through the gears, providing a smooth and effortless driving experience. On a winding road, the RC 350 F Sport comes alive. The sport-tuned suspension keeps the car planted and composed, while the precise steering allows you to carve through corners with confidence. The Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) adjusts the damping force of the shock absorbers in real-time, helping to minimize body roll and maintain a smooth ride. Even on rough roads, the RC 350 F Sport manages to absorb bumps and imperfections with ease, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The brakes are also worth mentioning, as they offer strong and consistent stopping power. This gives you the confidence to push the car harder, knowing that you can always rely on the brakes to bring you to a halt. Overall, the driving experience of the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport is one of pure enjoyment. It's a car that's equally at home on a twisty back road as it is on the open highway, making it a versatile and rewarding choice for driving enthusiasts.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport, you'll immediately notice the attention to detail and the high-quality materials used throughout the cabin. The interior is designed to provide a comfortable and luxurious experience, with a focus on driver-centric features. The F Sport-specific seats are a standout, offering excellent support and bolstering to keep you firmly in place during spirited driving. These seats are typically wrapped in premium leather or a combination of leather and synthetic materials, adding to the overall sense of luxury. The dashboard and door panels are adorned with soft-touch materials and elegant stitching, further enhancing the cabin's upscale ambiance. Aluminum accents and trim pieces add a touch of sportiness, while the analog clock in the center of the dashboard provides a classic and timeless touch. In terms of technology, the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport comes equipped with a range of features designed to enhance your driving experience. The infotainment system is controlled via a touchpad interface, which can take some getting used to but ultimately provides a convenient way to access various functions. The system includes a high-resolution display screen, which provides clear and crisp graphics. Features such as navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration are standard or available as options, depending on the trim level. The audio system in the RC 350 F Sport is also noteworthy, delivering rich and immersive sound quality. Whether you're listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks, you'll appreciate the clarity and depth of the sound. Other notable technology features include a rearview camera, parking sensors, and a suite of advanced safety systems such as blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning. These features help to enhance safety and provide added peace of mind while driving. Overall, the interior and technology of the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport are well-executed, providing a comfortable, luxurious, and technologically advanced driving environment.

Key Interior Features

  • Sport Seats: Enhanced bolstering for better support.
  • Aluminum Pedals: Adds a sporty touch.
  • Lexus Enform: Infotainment system with touchpad control.
  • Premium Audio System: High-quality sound experience.

Exterior Design

The exterior design of the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport is a head-turner, no doubt about it. It's aggressive, sporty, and undeniably stylish. The F Sport trim takes the already sleek RC coupe and amps up the visual appeal with unique design elements that set it apart from the standard model. Up front, the most noticeable difference is the signature Lexus spindle grille, which features a distinctive mesh pattern on the F Sport. This grille not only looks more aggressive but also helps to improve airflow to the engine. The front bumper is also unique to the F Sport, with larger air intakes and a more sculpted design. These changes give the car a more menacing and athletic stance. Along the sides, the RC 350 F Sport features unique rocker panels and F Sport badging, further distinguishing it from the standard model. The wheels are also exclusive to the F Sport, with a sporty design and a dark finish. These wheels not only look great but also help to improve handling and performance. At the rear, the RC 350 F Sport features a subtle rear spoiler and a unique rear bumper with integrated exhaust outlets. These changes give the car a more aggressive and sporty look from behind. Overall, the exterior design of the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport is a masterpiece of modern automotive styling. It's a car that's sure to turn heads wherever you go, and it perfectly captures the sporty and luxurious character of the Lexus brand. From its aggressive front fascia to its sleek and sculpted lines, the RC 350 F Sport is a true work of art.

Available Colors

  • Ultra White
  • Atomic Silver
  • Infrared
  • Nightfall Mica
  • Obsidian

Reliability and Safety

When considering a luxury sport coupe like the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport, reliability and safety are crucial factors. Lexus has built a strong reputation for reliability, and the RC 350 F Sport is no exception. According to various consumer reports and reliability surveys, the RC 350 F Sport has consistently scored well in terms of reliability. Owners have reported few major issues, and the car is generally considered to be well-built and dependable. Of course, like any car, the RC 350 F Sport may experience occasional maintenance or repair needs. However, these issues are typically minor and easily resolved. In terms of safety, the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport comes equipped with a range of advanced safety features designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. These features include antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a comprehensive airbag system. Additionally, the RC 350 F Sport is available with a suite of optional safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features use sensors and cameras to monitor the car's surroundings and provide alerts or assistance to the driver when needed. In government crash tests, the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport has performed well, earning high scores for overall safety. This provides further reassurance that the car is designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Overall, the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport is a reliable and safe choice for those seeking a luxury sport coupe. With its strong reputation for reliability and its comprehensive suite of safety features, the RC 350 F Sport offers peace of mind and a confident driving experience.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced view, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport:

Pros

  • Stylish Design: Eye-catching and sporty exterior.
  • Strong Performance: Potent V6 engine with ample power.
  • Luxurious Interior: High-quality materials and comfortable seats.
  • Reliable: Lexus's reputation for dependability.
  • Available AWD: Enhanced traction in all weather conditions.

Cons

  • Infotainment System: Touchpad interface can be cumbersome.
  • Rear Seat Space: Limited legroom for rear passengers.
  • Fuel Economy: Not the most fuel-efficient option in its class.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport? Overall, it's a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a luxury sport coupe that blends style, performance, and reliability. While it may have a few minor drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. The RC 350 F Sport offers a thrilling driving experience, a luxurious interior, and a head-turning exterior design. Plus, with Lexus's reputation for reliability, you can count on it to provide years of trouble-free ownership. If you're in the market for a luxury sport coupe, the 2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport is definitely worth considering. It's a car that's sure to put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. Just be sure to take it for a test drive and see for yourself what makes it so special. You won't be disappointed!