The RC F, Lexus’s most powerful production V8 coupe yet, is primed to move from motor show star to road-going sensation. Opening up a new era of genuine Lexus high-performance engineering, it is being readied for launch in the UK before the end of the year with the announcement of equipment specifications and pricing. Order books are open now and first cars are expected to be with customers from late January next year.
[private]In terms of looks alone, the RC F has already made a huge impact, following its world reveal at the Detroit motor show in January. It’s now ready to make good on the promise of its attention-grabbing, contemporary Lexus styling with thoroughbred performance, handling and advanced new technologies. Being a Lexus, it is also equipped and finished to the highest quality standards.
UK model range
RC F will be launched in the UK in two versions: RC F and the RC F Carbon. Both are equipped with the same V8 engine, a new 5.0-litre, 32-valve V8 that is the most powerful Lexus has yet created for a production car. Developed specifically for the RC F and matched to a specially calibrated eight-speed Sports Direct Shift transmission, it’s set to deliver more than 450bhp and 520Nm.
The RC F’s profile as an authentic high-performance machine is witnessed in the standard fitment of Brembo brakes, Sachs monotube shock absorbers, an active rear wing, Lexus’s Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system and 19-inch forged alloy wheels.
The RC F Carbon benefits from additional performance features in the form of a torque-vectoring differential and a CFRP (carbon fibre-reinforced plastic) roof, bonnet and rear spoiler. It marks a world-first in the use of a torque-vectoring differential in a front engine/rear-wheel drive car, giving the driver the choice of with three operating modes to optimise traction and vehicle control in different scenarios, from everyday driving to track performance.
The use of CFRP for major elements of the RC F Carbon’s bodywork is not a cosmetic exercise, but strategic use of a strong but lightweight composite material Lexus originally developed for its LFA supercar.
Performance aside, the RC F benefits from the comprehensive array of comfort, safety and advanced technology features that is characteristic of today’s Lexus range.
The RC F comes equipped with LED headlights (high and low beam) with automatic high beam function; a 10-speaker multimedia system including DAB, DVD player, a new Remote Touch touchpad control and Lexus Premium Navigation; dual-zone climate control; and Drive Mode Select.
The safety provisions take in eight airbags, a reversing camera, Hill Assist Control, Lane Departure and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, a blind spot monitor and VDIM, which co-ordinates performance of the ABS, brake assist, traction control vehicle stability control and electronic brakeforce distribution.
The specification further runs to front and rear parking sensors, electric, auto-dimming, folding and heated door mirrors; cruise control, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, electric steering column adjustment and keyless Smart Entry.
The cabin features high-grade leather upholstery and electrically adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation functions. Throughout the interior there are Lexus ‘F’-themed details, including the steering wheel, pedals, trim and seat design.
Key options for the RC F include Adaptive Cruise Control with a Pre-Crash Safety system and a Mark Levinson Surround Sound system. The torque-vectoring differential featured on the RC F Carbon can also be specified.
The RC F Carbon is distinguished by a dedicated 19-inch forged alloy wheel design and Alcantara upholstery. It also comes with the Mark Levinson Surround Sound system as standard. Again, the ACC/PCS combination is available as an option.[/private]
