The 2017 Lexus RC 350 F Sport represents the performance-oriented edge of Lexus’s premium coupe lineup, blending refined comfort with engaging dynamics. This specific model year marked a point where the RC series had solidified its position as a compelling alternative to established German rivals, offering a distinctive design language and a focus on driver involvement that resonated with enthusiasts. Under the hood, the RC 350 F Sport housed a robust 3.5-liter V6, generating 306 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission and powering the rear wheels. The F Sport package, which included specific aesthetics and a slightly more aggressive suspension setup, signaled a deliberate choice for drivers who sought a more assertive presence on the road.
Design and Exterior Styling
Visually, the 2017 RC 350 F Sport is immediately recognizable, wearing the F Sport-specific front bumper with a larger grille and integrated fog lights, paired with a unique rear diffuser and dual exhaust tips. The alloy wheels are typically a 19-inch multi-spoke design, finished in a dark gray to complement the aggressive stance. The F Sport badge on the rear and subtle side skirts reinforce the performance intent without overwhelming the car’s elegant coupe silhouette. Inside, the cabin is upgraded with F Sport-specific sport seats featuring contrast stitching, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and aluminum paddle shifters that place the driver at the center of the experience.
Interior Quality and Technology
Lexus maintains a high standard of interior construction, and the 2017 RC 350 F Sport is no exception. The dashboard and door panels are clad in soft-touch materials, and the overall fit and finish feel solid and well-executed. The available infotainment system features a navigation-ready, multi-angle backup camera, and premium JBL audio further enhances the sensory environment. While the RC prioritizes driver focus, it does not skimp on connectivity, offering Bluetooth hands-free calling and streaming audio, USB connectivity, and available satellite navigation to ensure convenience keeps pace with performance.
Performance and Handling Dynamics
Driving the 2017 RC 350 F Sport reveals a chassis that is both poised and communicative. The adaptive Variable Suspension on the F Sport model adjusts damping in real-time, providing a firm yet controlled ride that minimizes body roll through corners without transmitting excessive harshness from road imperfections. Steering is precise and weighted, offering clear feedback from the front tires, while the rear wheels respond eagerly to throttle input. This combination transforms the RC from a comfortable cruiser into a dynamic machine that inspires confidence on winding roads and makes highway merging a decisive experience.
3.5-liter 2GR-FE V6 engine
8-speed automatic transmission with Sport mode
Rear-wheel-drive layout
Adaptive Variable Suspension (F Sport)
19-inch F Sport alloy wheels
Paddle shifters for manual gear selection
Fuel Economy and Practical Considerations
Power and efficiency exist in a careful balance for the RC 350 F Sport. EPA-estimated fuel economy typically falls around 19 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway, which is respectable for a mid-size luxury coupe with this level of performance. The 13.2-gallon fuel tank provides a decent driving range between fill-ups. While the RC is primarily a two-person vehicle, the rear seats offer adequate space for occasional passengers, and the trunk, with its split-folding rear seats, provides generous cargo capacity for luggage or everyday use.
