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2016 Lexus RC: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2016 Lexus RC is a broader engine lineup, led by the new RC 200t turbo model and RC 300 AWD V6 model. This is a lineup expansion rather than a redesign, so the body, cabin, and core features largely carry over.
About the 2016 Lexus RC
1st generation RC / RC F (2015-2025), second model year; lineup expansion year, not a redesign.
Lexus positions the RC as a style-first luxury coupe with a driver-focused cabin, dramatic sheet metal, and a true 2+2 layout that puts the front-seat experience ahead of utility. Its appeal is less about maximum practicality and more about design, craftsmanship, and offering buyers a choice of turbo, V6, AWD, or full V8 performance within one coupe family. For most shoppers, the RC is the Lexus alternative to German compact luxury coupes, emphasizing standout looks and a polished cabin.
The 2016 range stretches from the rear-wheel-drive RC 200t, positioned as the turbocharged entry model, to the RC 300 AWD for drivers who want V6 power and all-weather traction. The 306-hp RC 350 is the strongest regular RC, while the RC F sits at the top with a 467-hp V8, a speed-activated rear wing, and performance-focused digital instruments.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The new RC 200t adds a 241-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, rear-wheel drive, and an eight-speed automatic. The new RC 300 adds a 255-hp V6, full-time AWD, and a six-speed automatic. The RC 350 and RC F engines carry over.
2016 Lexus RC specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 5.0 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 2.0L |
| Transmission | Auto, 8-Spd w/Multi-Mode | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 8-Spd | Auto, 8-Spd w/Multi-Mode |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 19 mpg | 19 mpg | 22 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 25 mpg | 26 mpg | 26 mpg | 32 mpg |
| Horsepower | 467 hp | 255 hp | 306 hp | 241 hp |
| Torque | 389 lb-ft | 236 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 10.1 cu-ft | 10.4 cu-ft | 10.4 cu-ft | 10.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 27.3 in | 27.3 in | 27.3 in | 27.3 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Remote Control Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Leather Interior Trim | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Memory Front Seats | ||||
| Memory Steering Wheel | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Lexus RC?
The biggest change is the addition of the RC 200t and RC 300, which expand the RC from one core V6 model into a broader three-engine regular lineup. The RC F remains the separate V8 performance model.
Is the 2016 Lexus RC a redesign?
No. The 2016 Lexus RC is a lineup-expansion year, not a redesign. Its basic body, platform, cabin layout, and overall feature set carry over from 2015.
How do the 2016 RC 200t and RC 300 differ?
The 2016 RC 200t has a 241-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, rear-wheel drive, and an eight-speed automatic. The RC 300 has a 255-hp V6, full-time AWD, and a six-speed automatic.
Did the 2016 Lexus RC 350 and RC F get new engines?
No. Their core engines carry over for 2016: a 306-hp 3.5-liter V6 in the RC 350 and a 467-hp 5.0-liter V8 in the RC F.
Which 2016 Lexus RC models have AWD?
The 2016 RC 300 has full-time AWD, while the RC 350 was sold in rear- or all-wheel-drive form. The RC 200t and RC F use rear-wheel drive.
2016 Lexus RC Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Lexus RC.
4.5
2016 Lexus RC
(104 reviews)
“Great exterior styling as I have gotten and continue to get many extremely positive comments from strangers on the look of the car. Overall I am very satisfied with the styling, quality, workmanship and performance of the vehicle.”
“good performance, handling and drive, well-equipped. Trunk is a bit small and the back seats are comfortable but getting in and out of them is challenging.”
Sources
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2016 Lexus Rc Three Engines
- lexus.com — Models / 2016 / Lexus RC Brochure
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2016 Lexus Rc F Track
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2017 Lexus Rc Coupe Excites Luxury Sport Category
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2017 Lexus Rc F Track Breeding Meets Road Refinement
- lexus.com — Models / 2016 / MY16 Lexus RC F Brochure