Auto news on Youtube Sep 29 2017

2018 Lexus RC [Engine and Transmission]

2018 Lexus RC | Engine and Transmission Review. Engine and Transmission Rating:. Three engine choices provide a range of performance, but a 70-hp spread from bottom to top isnt exactly impressive. All of the RCs powertrain options provide adequate-but not speedy-motivation.

Whats New for 2018?. Both V-6-powered RCs see a 5-hp output increase for 2018, bringing ratings up to 260 horsepower for the RC300 and 311 for the RC350.

We havent tested either one yet, but we expect performance to vary only slightly from 2017 models tested here. The RC200ts name is dead for 2018, but dont be fooled: the 241-hp turbocharged 20-liter inline-four lives on as the rear-wheel drive RC300.

Entry-level RC Turbo models (badged as RC200t) are powered by a turbocharged 20-liter inline-four making 241 horsepower and mated exclusively to an eight-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is this models only setup.

We found the eight-speed to be a good match for the turbo four, but the engine isnt up to the task of pulling the RC around with any alacrity.

If youre looking for a more extreme Lexus coupe, wed suggest taking a look at the V-8-powered RC F (reviewed separately).

Lexus offers two 3.5-liter V-6 engines to address the lack of power. Under the hood of the RC300, the V-6 makes 255 horsepower and pairs with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

The range-topping RC350 gets 306 horsepower and the slick-shifting eight-speed automatic with rear-wheel drive or the six-speed when equipped with all-wheel drive.

In our testing, weve found this engine to be velvety smooth with linear power delivery, but its still not as gutsy as its rivals.