When Lexus expanded the range of the 2016 IS sedan in July, we knew it was only a matter of time before it offered the same upgrades to the RC coupe in the States.
The highlight for the 2016 model year is the introduction of two new powertrains that will be added to the existing range that includes the rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) versions of the 306hp V6 RC 350, and the RWD-only 467hp 5.0L V8 RC F.
The first new engine option is the 2.0-liter turbo four on the RC 200t where it produces 241hp and 258lb-ft of torque between 1,650-4,400 rpm paired to an eight-speed automatic driving the rear wheels.
With this setup, the 200t coupe hits 60mph (96km/h) in 7.3 seconds and the quarter mile in 16.0 seconds before topping out at 143mph (230km/h), while returning a manufacturer estimated, 26mpg combined, 22mpg city and 26mpg highway.
The other addition to the RC’s lineup is a downgraded 3.0-liter V6 churning out 255hp and 236 lb.-ft. torque at 2,000-4,800 rpm combined with all-wheel drive and a 6-speed auto on the RC 300 AWD. It reaches 60mph (96km/h) in 6.3 seconds, the quarter mile in 14.9 seconds and a top speed of 130mph (209km/h). Lexus estimates that the 300 AWD will get 21mpg combined, 19mpg city and 26mpg highway.
Along with the powertrain expansion, the RC features a few more other changes for 2016, namely optional orange brake calipers and Limited Slip differential for the 200t F SPORT and 350 RWD F SPORT, while performance dampers are standard for RC 200t and (oddly) available for RC 350 RWD F SPORT. Also, Eminent White Pearl exterior paint replaces Starfire Pearl and Lexus now offers its Enform Service Connect that allows customers to remotely view information about certain aspects of their car with a one-year complimentary subscription.
Pricing information has not yet been communicated.
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