Hey guys! Let's dive into the nitty-gritty of the 2019 Lexus RC 350 F Sport, a car that blends luxury with a sporty edge. If you're considering getting one or just curious about what this coupe offers, you're in the right place. We're going to break down everything from its engine specs to its interior features, so buckle up!

Engine and Performance Specs

When you talk about the 2019 Lexus RC 350 F Sport, the heart of the matter is undoubtedly its engine. Under the hood, you'll find a 3.5-liter V6 engine that's eager to please. This powerplant churns out a robust 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. What does that mean for you? It translates to brisk acceleration and plenty of punch for both city driving and open highway cruising.

The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth and responsive shifts. Lexus has tuned this transmission to enhance the sporty feel of the RC 350 F Sport. Whether you're gently accelerating from a stop or demanding quick bursts of speed for overtaking, the transmission is always ready to play along. For those who crave a more engaging driving experience, there are paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel, allowing you to take manual control of gear changes. This feature is especially fun when tackling winding roads or when you simply want to feel more connected to the car.

Furthermore, the RC 350 F Sport is available in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The RWD version is the purist's choice, offering a more traditional sports car feel with its balanced handling and engaging driving dynamics. On the other hand, the AWD version provides added confidence and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The AWD system can automatically distribute torque between the front and rear wheels, optimizing traction and control. This makes the RC 350 F Sport a practical choice for those who live in regions with snow or frequent rain.

In terms of performance figures, the RC 350 F Sport can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 5.8 seconds. While this isn't supercar territory, it's certainly quick enough to provide plenty of thrills. More importantly, the RC 350 F Sport delivers its power in a smooth and linear fashion, making it easy to modulate and control. This contributes to a refined and enjoyable driving experience, whether you're commuting to work or carving up a twisty road. The exhaust note is also worth mentioning; Lexus has engineered a subtle but satisfying growl that adds to the car's sporty character without being overly intrusive.

Interior and Technology

Okay, let's step inside the 2019 Lexus RC 350 F Sport. Lexus is known for its attention to detail, and this car doesn't disappoint. The cabin is a blend of luxury and sporty design elements, creating a comfortable and engaging environment for both the driver and passengers.

The seats are one of the highlights of the interior. The F Sport models come with unique sport seats that offer excellent support and bolstering. These seats are designed to hold you firmly in place during spirited driving, while also providing ample comfort for long journeys. The seats are typically wrapped in high-quality leather or a combination of leather and synthetic materials, with contrasting stitching and embossed F Sport logos adding a touch of flair. Heated and ventilated front seats are also available, ensuring comfort in all weather conditions.

The dashboard and center console are thoughtfully laid out, with all controls within easy reach of the driver. The instrument cluster features a large central tachometer, flanked by digital displays that provide information such as speed, fuel economy, and trip data. The F Sport models also get unique instrumentation with sporty graphics and displays. A large infotainment screen sits atop the dashboard, controlled by Lexus' Remote Touch interface. While some find the Remote Touch system a bit quirky to use, it does offer a wide range of features, including navigation, audio controls, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Speaking of technology, the RC 350 F Sport comes standard with a suite of advanced features. This includes a premium audio system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a rearview camera. Optional features include a blind-spot monitoring system, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. These technologies enhance both safety and convenience, making the RC 350 F Sport a well-equipped and modern coupe. The materials used throughout the cabin are generally of high quality, with soft-touch surfaces and attractive trim pieces adding to the sense of luxury. Overall, the interior of the RC 350 F Sport is a comfortable and inviting space that's well-suited for both daily driving and weekend getaways.

Exterior Design and Styling

The 2019 Lexus RC 350 F Sport definitely knows how to turn heads with its striking exterior design. Lexus has given this coupe a bold and aggressive look that sets it apart from its competitors. From its sharp lines to its distinctive spindle grille, the RC 350 F Sport exudes confidence and style.

The front fascia is dominated by Lexus' signature spindle grille, which is finished in a unique mesh pattern on the F Sport models. This grille is flanked by sleek LED headlights and aggressive air intakes, giving the car a menacing look. The hood features sculpted lines that flow back towards the windshield, adding to the car's dynamic appearance. The F Sport models also get a unique front bumper with aerodynamic enhancements, further emphasizing their sporty character.

Moving to the side profile, the RC 350 F Sport boasts a low and wide stance, with a steeply raked roofline and muscular wheel arches. The car's sleek silhouette is further enhanced by its sculpted side skirts and available 19-inch alloy wheels. The F Sport models also get unique badging and exterior trim, setting them apart from the standard RC models. The rear of the RC 350 F Sport is equally striking, with its distinctive LED taillights and integrated rear spoiler. The rear bumper features aggressive diffusers and dual exhaust outlets, adding to the car's sporty appearance. Overall, the exterior design of the RC 350 F Sport is both eye-catching and aerodynamic, making it a standout in its class.

Lexus offers a wide range of exterior colors for the RC 350 F Sport, allowing you to customize the car to your personal taste. Some popular choices include Ultra White, Atomic Silver, and Infrared. The paint quality is excellent, with a deep gloss and rich color that enhances the car's overall appearance. Whether you prefer a classic and understated look or a bold and vibrant one, there's a color option to suit your preferences.

Driving Experience and Handling

Alright, let's talk about how the 2019 Lexus RC 350 F Sport feels on the road. Beyond just the specs, the actual driving experience is where this car either shines or falls flat. Good news: it mostly shines.

The steering in the RC 350 F Sport is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback from the road. This allows you to confidently place the car exactly where you want it, whether you're navigating tight city streets or carving up a winding mountain road. The suspension is also well-tuned, striking a good balance between comfort and handling. It's firm enough to minimize body roll in corners, but also compliant enough to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road. The F Sport models get an adaptive variable suspension system, which allows you to adjust the car's damping characteristics to suit your driving style. This system can automatically adjust the suspension settings based on road conditions and driver inputs, optimizing both comfort and handling.

Braking performance is another strong point of the RC 350 F Sport. The car's brakes are powerful and responsive, providing confident stopping power in all situations. The brake pedal feel is also excellent, allowing you to easily modulate the brakes and avoid locking up the wheels. The F Sport models get larger front brake rotors and calipers, further enhancing braking performance. The RC 350 F Sport is also equipped with a suite of electronic stability control systems, which help to keep the car stable and under control in emergency situations. These systems can automatically intervene to prevent skidding or loss of control, enhancing safety and confidence.

In terms of overall handling, the RC 350 F Sport is a well-balanced and enjoyable car to drive. It's not the fastest or most extreme sports car on the market, but it offers a good blend of performance, comfort, and refinement. The car's responsive engine, precise steering, and well-tuned suspension make it a pleasure to drive on a variety of roads. Whether you're commuting to work or going for a weekend cruise, the RC 350 F Sport delivers a rewarding and engaging driving experience. The F Sport models also get a sport-tuned exhaust system, which adds a more aggressive sound to the car's soundtrack, further enhancing the driving experience.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the 2019 Lexus RC 350 F Sport? It's a solid choice if you're looking for a luxury coupe that offers a blend of style, performance, and comfort. With its potent V6 engine, sharp handling, and well-appointed interior, the RC 350 F Sport is a car that's both fun to drive and easy to live with. While it may not be the most cutting-edge or technologically advanced car in its class, it offers a timeless design and a reputation for reliability that's hard to beat.

If you value a comfortable ride, a luxurious interior, and a sporty driving experience, the RC 350 F Sport is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to check out the competition to see what else is out there before making your final decision. But all in all, the 2019 Lexus RC 350 F Sport is a well-rounded and appealing coupe that's sure to impress. Happy driving, guys!