Lexus RC F, RC F Track Edition revealed at Detroit

The RC F has been part of Lexus’ line-up for a while now and the Japanese brand has taken the opportunity at Detroit to reveal a refresh for the sportscar, along with a more hardcore Track Edition.

On the outside, the new RC F has received redesigned headlight clusters with integrated daytime running lights and new tail-lights, in addition to a new vent at the bottom of the front grille, and a reshaped bumper. Changes have been made to the model’s mechanical aspects as well; weight has been shaved off by replacing the old model’s solid half-shafts with lighter, hollow units, while components such as the intake manifold and air-conditioning compressor are now smaller. Lexus claims to have improved handling performance by using aluminium suspension parts, stiffer bushings and steering rack mounts, and new Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres developed especially for the new RC F.

The car retains its naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine but Lexus have fitted a modified intake system that now helps produce 457hp and 520Nm of torque. The 8-speed automatic gearbox has also been retained, but it now features a higher final drive ratio to improve acceleration from a standing start. With launch control fitted as standard, the RC F is capable of doing the 0-100kph sprint in a claimed 4.5sec.

While the RC F Track Edition has the same the powertrain, it gets a redesigned carbon-fibre front splitter and spoiler that are said to provide an improved steering response and add up to 26kg of additional downforce over the standard model. It also has weight savings of between 70-80kg over the RC F, which has been achieved with carbon-ceramic brake discs, carbon-fibre body panels, titanium exhaust components and lightweight 19-inch BBS alloy wheels. Details regarding the Track Edition’s performance are scarce, although the 0-100kph sprint is said to take less than 4sec. The Track Edition will be available in white or a bespoke matte grey exclusive to the model. A red-leather interior with carbon trim and Alcantara seat accents is fitted as standard.

Production of both the RC F and RC F Track Edition will begin in March, this year, and will go on sale in international markets sometime later in 2019. Lexus had made no announcement regarding an India launch for either of these models.