Lexus: RC News
#201
Senior Moderator
#202
Team Owner
woman and a Lexus..... too bad it wasn't white.
#203
Senior Moderator
#204
Team Owner
why do you think she never drove the car in the Ad... Lexus probably did not allow her to move the car.
#205
#206
I'm the Firestarter
You may remember her from such videos as "2014 Lexus CT 200h -- Inside and Out":
There's just something about her voice...
There's just something about her voice...
#207
Team Owner
i swear i have seen her on I-10 in a white Lexus before, holding up traffic in the left lane.
The following users liked this post:
charliemike (01-12-2015)
#208
#209
Team Owner
The same reason why Infiniti should ditch the VQ and Acura should ditch J series.
Nothing wrong with the engine but they are outdated and out performed by its competitions.
When you are standing still, you are already behind.
Nothing wrong with the engine but they are outdated and out performed by its competitions.
When you are standing still, you are already behind.
#210
damn, what is lexus doing? they are still outdated with a 3.5? all the enthusiasts are gonna leave!?!?!? what are they to do!??!?!?!
#211
Fahrvergnügen'd
There are alternatives that provide better performance, more refinement, and better fuel economy than that old Lexus engine.
So yes, Lexus needs to replace that engine with something more modern and definitely lighter.
#212
Team Owner
and there is really nothing wrong with 32" CRT TV and blackberry will do the job just fine....
#213
Moderator
Ummm, have you read the comparisons to the M4 (it's target)? The weight, the Frankenstein way of creating the chassis, and the aged drivetrain are some of the knocks against the car. That being said, my compliments to Lexus for even creating this car...it's a risk a certain other car maker seems unwilling to take.
#214
Team Owner
Knowing how Lexus responded to the market in the past 10 years, i would expect them to release a more competitive engine very soon.
Same can't be said about Acura tho.
Same can't be said about Acura tho.
#215
Moderator
iTrader: (3)
Lexus just released it's first turbocharged engine in the NX producing 235hp/258tq. I've heard for quite some time that this engine will be replacing the dated 2.5 in the IS250, but now there are rumors that the GS and RC will be picking up this engine as well (see link).
Me personally, I don't think that engine produces enough power or torque to be put into heavy vehicles like the RC and GS, but it would allow people who aren't performance conscious/oriented to purchase a Lexus vehicle at (most likely) a lower price point.
Lexus is heading in the right direction with engine development but they are taking their sweet time doing so
Link: Lexus IS200T, GS200T, RC200T Profiled In Trademark Apps
Me personally, I don't think that engine produces enough power or torque to be put into heavy vehicles like the RC and GS, but it would allow people who aren't performance conscious/oriented to purchase a Lexus vehicle at (most likely) a lower price point.
Lexus is heading in the right direction with engine development but they are taking their sweet time doing so
Link: Lexus IS200T, GS200T, RC200T Profiled In Trademark Apps
#216
Team Owner
A6, 5 and others all have 4 banger turbo in it.. i dont like it but that is just the norm now. So i would not be surprised if GS gets the 4 banger turbo too
RC... well 4 series, C250 coupe, A5 all have 4 banger turbo as base... so that is the norm too.
Now for people who want some real performance.. i am curious what they are going to do with their V6 to compete with 335 (340), C400 and S4.
and knowing these are the same people that made the bulletproof I6 TT Supra... I think they know what they are doing.
RC... well 4 series, C250 coupe, A5 all have 4 banger turbo as base... so that is the norm too.
Now for people who want some real performance.. i am curious what they are going to do with their V6 to compete with 335 (340), C400 and S4.
and knowing these are the same people that made the bulletproof I6 TT Supra... I think they know what they are doing.
Last edited by oonowindoo; 01-12-2015 at 05:08 PM.
#217
So the engines are outdated in performance. 80-85% of the people who walk through our doors do not care in the least because 90% of the line up is not marketed towards enthusiasts. The GS F-Sport is predominately bought by the same folks who purchase 5-Series/E-Class cars. The IS F-Sport is the same; 3-Series/C-Class folks. Lexus buyers do not care about performance as long as the car is not completely dominated by the competition. They care about luxury & 200 million features which is exactly where Lexus focuses its main attention.
The F-Line is for people who want all of Lexus' gadgets with some sport-influenced traits in their cars. This is not an enthusiasts brand catered to people on here who like to compare magazine times, myself included.
#218
I'm the Firestarter
Lexus just released it's first turbocharged engine in the NX producing 235hp/258tq. I've heard for quite some time that this engine will be replacing the dated 2.5 in the IS250, but now there are rumors that the GS and RC will be picking up this engine as well (see link).
Me personally, I don't think that engine produces enough power or torque to be put into heavy vehicles like the RC and GS, but it would allow people who aren't performance conscious/oriented to purchase a Lexus vehicle at (most likely) a lower price point.
Lexus is heading in the right direction with engine development but they are taking their sweet time doing so
Link: Lexus IS200T, GS200T, RC200T Profiled In Trademark Apps
Me personally, I don't think that engine produces enough power or torque to be put into heavy vehicles like the RC and GS, but it would allow people who aren't performance conscious/oriented to purchase a Lexus vehicle at (most likely) a lower price point.
Lexus is heading in the right direction with engine development but they are taking their sweet time doing so
Link: Lexus IS200T, GS200T, RC200T Profiled In Trademark Apps
#219
Senior Moderator
Chris Harris drives the car...
#220
Senior Moderator
Saw the Top Gear episode where Clarkson reviews the RC-F...wow, he hates it.
#222
Team Owner
#223
Suzuka Master
Calls it a fatty
#224
Senior Moderator
#225
Suzuka Master
#226
Race Director
#228
Azine Jabroni
You want to make a quick buck? Invest in a tire company. Cars are so damn heavy now. I've told this story before, but my friend is a manager at a Discount Tire nearby and there's a guy who replaces his Model S tires almost yearly at a $2100 clip.
#229
Moderator
https://www.caranddriver.com/news/ra...caught-testing
Lexus is preparing to introduce a more track-focused version of the RC F coupe before the end of the decade. Expected to take the name RC F GT, the car spotted here is what we believe to be the road-going variant of the RC F GT concept car.
Whereas the concept car included race-car-like features such as a stripped-down interior, a full roll cage, and lightweight polycarbonate windows, the production vehicle will maintain much of the civility of the RC F. That means GT buyers will be treated to a leather-lined interior replete with a pair of rear seats.
Still, we expect performance improvements from the car when it finally arrives. Notably, the RC F GT will crib the Japanese-market RC F 10th Anniversary Edition model’s carbon-fiber body panels. This includes the hood, roof, and lower-body trim. The GT’s large trunk-mounted wing is expected to also be made of carbon fiber and replace the retractable spoiler of the standard RC F. Bigger brakes and a set of lightweight wheels wrapped in ultra-high-performance tires are sure to improve the model’s braking performance and lateral grip relative to the standard RC F.
The car pictured here also reveals a handful of new details that we expect will make their way to the refreshed Lexus RC that’s due soon, including revised headlights, taillights, and side mirrors. Expect the updated coupe to also sport redesigned front and rear fascias, as well.
Like the standard RC F, the RC F GT is expected to rely on Lexus’s 5.0-liter V-8 engine for motivation, with tweaks to add a few ponies to the V-8’s 467-hp stable. An eight-speed automatic transmission will be the sole transmission choice.
Given that the car caught in these photos is right-hand drive, we have reason to believe that the RC F GT will follow the path of the RC F 10th Anniversary Edition, which was introduced for the Japanese market well before it was announced that the special edition would also be offered in the United States. In fact, we’re not certain whether U.S. consumers will have the opportunity to purchase an RC F GT at all.
We hope that’s not the case, though, because if the road-going RC F GT is even half as fun to drive as the RC F GT concept, then it will be an absolute hoot. The RC F GT concept, you’ll remember, currently holds the third-fastest time we have ever recorded around Virginia International Raceway during our annual Lightning Lap event.
We catch the big-winged coupe roaming the streets.
Lexus is preparing to introduce a more track-focused version of the RC F coupe before the end of the decade. Expected to take the name RC F GT, the car spotted here is what we believe to be the road-going variant of the RC F GT concept car.
Whereas the concept car included race-car-like features such as a stripped-down interior, a full roll cage, and lightweight polycarbonate windows, the production vehicle will maintain much of the civility of the RC F. That means GT buyers will be treated to a leather-lined interior replete with a pair of rear seats.
Still, we expect performance improvements from the car when it finally arrives. Notably, the RC F GT will crib the Japanese-market RC F 10th Anniversary Edition model’s carbon-fiber body panels. This includes the hood, roof, and lower-body trim. The GT’s large trunk-mounted wing is expected to also be made of carbon fiber and replace the retractable spoiler of the standard RC F. Bigger brakes and a set of lightweight wheels wrapped in ultra-high-performance tires are sure to improve the model’s braking performance and lateral grip relative to the standard RC F.
The car pictured here also reveals a handful of new details that we expect will make their way to the refreshed Lexus RC that’s due soon, including revised headlights, taillights, and side mirrors. Expect the updated coupe to also sport redesigned front and rear fascias, as well.
Like the standard RC F, the RC F GT is expected to rely on Lexus’s 5.0-liter V-8 engine for motivation, with tweaks to add a few ponies to the V-8’s 467-hp stable. An eight-speed automatic transmission will be the sole transmission choice.
Given that the car caught in these photos is right-hand drive, we have reason to believe that the RC F GT will follow the path of the RC F 10th Anniversary Edition, which was introduced for the Japanese market well before it was announced that the special edition would also be offered in the United States. In fact, we’re not certain whether U.S. consumers will have the opportunity to purchase an RC F GT at all.
We hope that’s not the case, though, because if the road-going RC F GT is even half as fun to drive as the RC F GT concept, then it will be an absolute hoot. The RC F GT concept, you’ll remember, currently holds the third-fastest time we have ever recorded around Virginia International Raceway during our annual Lightning Lap event.
#230
Moderator
https://www.netcarshow.com/lexus/2019-rc/
Lexus announced a new version of the Lexus RC luxury sports coupe, which is scheduled to make its global debut at the 2018 Paris Motor Show.
Since its introduction in 2014, the Lexus RC has played a major role in promoting the Lexus brand's commitment to delivering an emotional driving experience. Thanks to its aggressive styling and versatile driving character, the RC has become a highly sought-after coupe by enthusiasts who value performance and world-class craftsmanship.
The fresh new styling of the 2019 Lexus RC retains all the virtues of the previous model yet further refines the design language first established by the flagship LC coupe. Inside the cabin, everything from the high- quality materials to the design of controls and gauges were reevaluated to maximize driving pleasure.
Enhancements have also been made to the RC's aerodynamics, tires and suspension, as well as improvements to engine response and steering feel, all of which result in a sharper and more refined drive. This provides a high level of driver confidence and a reassuring ride quality, making it an ideal companion whether you're challenging a twisty mountain road or taking a long-distance journey on the open highway.
Since its introduction in 2014, the Lexus RC has played a major role in promoting the Lexus brand's commitment to delivering an emotional driving experience. Thanks to its aggressive styling and versatile driving character, the RC has become a highly sought-after coupe by enthusiasts who value performance and world-class craftsmanship.
The fresh new styling of the 2019 Lexus RC retains all the virtues of the previous model yet further refines the design language first established by the flagship LC coupe. Inside the cabin, everything from the high- quality materials to the design of controls and gauges were reevaluated to maximize driving pleasure.
Enhancements have also been made to the RC's aerodynamics, tires and suspension, as well as improvements to engine response and steering feel, all of which result in a sharper and more refined drive. This provides a high level of driver confidence and a reassuring ride quality, making it an ideal companion whether you're challenging a twisty mountain road or taking a long-distance journey on the open highway.
#231
Moderator
#232
Moderator
#233
Moderator
#234
Ex-OEM King
Less fugly but not by much. Glad they finally combined the headlights and DRL's though...
#235
Team Owner
ohh yah that is the change. It looked the same to me but i knew something was changed
#236
Moderator
2020 rc-f
https://www.netcarshow.com/lexus/2020-rc_f/
Freshly updated for the 2020 model year, the Lexus RC F coupe now boasts improved performance, revised styling and an all-new, limited production Track Edition. With the introduction of the RC F Track Edition, hard core driving enthusiasts no longer have to decide between a luxury car for the street and a serious performance car for the track. Blending the luxury and craftsmanship of Lexus with performance upgrades typically reserved for exotic sportscars, the Lexus RC F Track Edition is capable of turning hot laps all afternoon and being driven home that night. It's the latest milestone for the F performance brand that will continue to evolve as an important pillar of the overall strategy at Lexus.
The Track Edition joins the standard Lexus RC F performance coupe which has been extensively updated for the 2020 model year. Improved aerodynamics, reduced weight, a retuned suspension and enhanced styling elevate the Lexus RC F to a new level of performance and refinement.
"The new RCF and the Track Edition, in particular, benefit from constant development since their original launch. With the latest improvements, these models help further distinguish the F brand by offering fast, durable, highly capable performance cars that rely on a range of technologies to help make their performance accessible to drivers of all skill levels," said Koji Sato, Executive Vice President, Lexus International.
The RC F Redefined
The 2020 Lexus RC F coupe gets a wide range of changes designed to boost its performance and freshen its overall look. One of the first targets for the engineers was reducing weight without compromising the coupe's sense of refinement and solidity. At the rear, hollow half shafts are now used in place of the previous solid shafts while up front a pared down intake manifold and a smaller air conditioning compressor remove weight from the front of the car. Changing to aluminum for the toe control brackets and upper suspension support brackets also reduces weight while maintaining stiffness.
To further refine the feel of the RC F, there are now stiffer bushings for the rear suspension arms and steering rack mounts. More rigid engine mounts were also used to better transmit the power of the RC F's normally aspirated 5.0-liter V8, one of the last such engines available in a luxury coupe. It's now rated at 472 horsepower (+5hp) and 395 pound feet of torque (+6 lb ft) thanks to a revised intake routing and lower rpm trigger point for the secondary intake opening (2,800 rpm vs 3,600rpm). An eight-speed automatic transmission carries over, but a higher final drive ratio (3.13 vs 2.93) has been installed to improve off-the-line response.
For the ultimate in standing start acceleration, the Lexus RC F now includes electronic launch control as standard. With a push of the button on the console, the system automatically adjusts the traction and throttle control for maximum acceleration from a stop. All the driver has to do is press and hold the brake pedal, engage the system, floor the accelerator to bring up the engine speed and release the brake.
Additional performance gains are delivered by new Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires designed specifically for the RC F. Compared to the standard Michelin specifications, the tires on the Lexus RC F utilize a unique profile shape, tread pattern and rubber compound. The changes are specifically designed to reduce understeer, improve overall lateral grip and increase durability under extreme conditions.
There are also subtle but substantive changes to the styling of the RC F that add familial traits to further refine its aggressive overall shape. Up front, the headlights have been updated to a design that features stacked LED lights and integrated daytime running lights. The shape of the signature grille has been altered by adding a lower lip opening that stretches across the bottom to create a visually shorter front fascia. At the rear of the car, new taillights integrate neatly into a reshaped bumper to give the Lexus RC F a cleaner, more chiseled appearance.
RC F Track Edition: A Higher Degree of F
More than a mere accessories package, the limited production Lexus RC F Track Edition features a precisely engineered set of upgrades that work together seamlessly to push its performance to a new level. Developed with input from Lexus race teams in the Super GT and IMSA series, the Track Edition is designed to deliver exceptional performance that enthusiasts can easily exploit in a wide variety of conditions.
Achieving that level of predictable performance was made possible by rigorous engineering and the assembly precision of Takumi masters who oversee production of every Lexus RC F. All aspects of the car were scrutinized for improvement, but the Track Edition doesn't forego refinement for all-out speed. It remains an uncompromised luxury performance coupe with the ability to impress both on the track and off.
A Smoother Shape and a Precise Diet
One key area of improvement is the RC F Track Edition's aerodynamic signature. Up front, the unique front splitter with canards is not only made from carbon fiber to reduce weight, it's also designed to increase front end downforce for better grip and more precise steering. At the rear of the car, a fixed rear wing made from carbon fiber replaces the active spoiler offered on the standard RC F. The fixed wing is not only lighter, it does double duty by simultaneously reducing drag and adding downforce.
To accomplish that paradoxical feat, the engineers started by shaping the wing in a way that smooths the airflow over the rear of the car to decrease drag-inducing turbulence. They then added a very slight angle of attack to produce downforce without compromising the overall airflow. The result is up to 58 pounds of additional downforce compared to the active rear spoiler.
Like the standard model, weight reduction was a key area of focus for the Track Edition. Preliminary estimates put the total reduction at 176 pounds compared to the previous Lexus RC F, but more importantly, the engineers focused on cutting weight that yields the most significant dynamic improvements. This led to keying in on unsprung weight since any weight that can be removed from the mass not supported by the suspension pays huge dividends in handling and steering feel.
With that goal in mind, every Track Edition model is upgraded with Brembo carbon ceramic brake rotors. They are not only significantly lighter than their steel counterparts, they're also better able to withstand the extreme heat cycling associated with performance driving. They are surrounded by a set of lightweight 19" BBS forged alloy wheels that feature a design derived from the RC F GT3 race car. Between the wheels, brake rotors and calipers, the Track Edition boasts a significant 55-pound reduction in unsprung weight on the front of the car alone.
Additional weight was removed by specifying carbon fiber for the roof and hood along with switching to a carbon fiber partition behind the rear seats and a carbon bumper reinforcement. Many of these carbon fiber pieces are made on the same line that supplied the Lexus LFA during its two-year production run. A standard titanium muffler and tail pipes is yet another area where the Track Edition sheds weight. Rarely seen on production cars, the use of titanium not only reduces the overall weight of the individual parts, it gives the Track Edition a polished look along with a unique sound.
That sound is worth enhancing, too, as the Track Edition uses the same 472hp, normally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 found in every 2020 Lexus RC F. In fact, when combined with the Track Edition's reduced curb weight, this RC F has the best power-to-weight ratio among its competitors. Couple that with the new electronic launch control system, and the RC F Track Edition is capable of launching from 0-to-60 mph in 3.96 seconds.
In order to give the Track Edition a more exclusive look on the inside, a red leather interior comes standard along with Alcantara seat accents and red carbon trim on the doors and dashboard. Only two exterior colors will be available: Ultra White and Matte Nebula Gray, an exclusive color only available on the Track Edition.
Both the 2020 Lexus RC F and the RC F Track Edition will start production in the second quarter of 2019.
The Track Edition joins the standard Lexus RC F performance coupe which has been extensively updated for the 2020 model year. Improved aerodynamics, reduced weight, a retuned suspension and enhanced styling elevate the Lexus RC F to a new level of performance and refinement.
"The new RCF and the Track Edition, in particular, benefit from constant development since their original launch. With the latest improvements, these models help further distinguish the F brand by offering fast, durable, highly capable performance cars that rely on a range of technologies to help make their performance accessible to drivers of all skill levels," said Koji Sato, Executive Vice President, Lexus International.
The RC F Redefined
The 2020 Lexus RC F coupe gets a wide range of changes designed to boost its performance and freshen its overall look. One of the first targets for the engineers was reducing weight without compromising the coupe's sense of refinement and solidity. At the rear, hollow half shafts are now used in place of the previous solid shafts while up front a pared down intake manifold and a smaller air conditioning compressor remove weight from the front of the car. Changing to aluminum for the toe control brackets and upper suspension support brackets also reduces weight while maintaining stiffness.
To further refine the feel of the RC F, there are now stiffer bushings for the rear suspension arms and steering rack mounts. More rigid engine mounts were also used to better transmit the power of the RC F's normally aspirated 5.0-liter V8, one of the last such engines available in a luxury coupe. It's now rated at 472 horsepower (+5hp) and 395 pound feet of torque (+6 lb ft) thanks to a revised intake routing and lower rpm trigger point for the secondary intake opening (2,800 rpm vs 3,600rpm). An eight-speed automatic transmission carries over, but a higher final drive ratio (3.13 vs 2.93) has been installed to improve off-the-line response.
For the ultimate in standing start acceleration, the Lexus RC F now includes electronic launch control as standard. With a push of the button on the console, the system automatically adjusts the traction and throttle control for maximum acceleration from a stop. All the driver has to do is press and hold the brake pedal, engage the system, floor the accelerator to bring up the engine speed and release the brake.
Additional performance gains are delivered by new Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires designed specifically for the RC F. Compared to the standard Michelin specifications, the tires on the Lexus RC F utilize a unique profile shape, tread pattern and rubber compound. The changes are specifically designed to reduce understeer, improve overall lateral grip and increase durability under extreme conditions.
There are also subtle but substantive changes to the styling of the RC F that add familial traits to further refine its aggressive overall shape. Up front, the headlights have been updated to a design that features stacked LED lights and integrated daytime running lights. The shape of the signature grille has been altered by adding a lower lip opening that stretches across the bottom to create a visually shorter front fascia. At the rear of the car, new taillights integrate neatly into a reshaped bumper to give the Lexus RC F a cleaner, more chiseled appearance.
RC F Track Edition: A Higher Degree of F
More than a mere accessories package, the limited production Lexus RC F Track Edition features a precisely engineered set of upgrades that work together seamlessly to push its performance to a new level. Developed with input from Lexus race teams in the Super GT and IMSA series, the Track Edition is designed to deliver exceptional performance that enthusiasts can easily exploit in a wide variety of conditions.
Achieving that level of predictable performance was made possible by rigorous engineering and the assembly precision of Takumi masters who oversee production of every Lexus RC F. All aspects of the car were scrutinized for improvement, but the Track Edition doesn't forego refinement for all-out speed. It remains an uncompromised luxury performance coupe with the ability to impress both on the track and off.
A Smoother Shape and a Precise Diet
One key area of improvement is the RC F Track Edition's aerodynamic signature. Up front, the unique front splitter with canards is not only made from carbon fiber to reduce weight, it's also designed to increase front end downforce for better grip and more precise steering. At the rear of the car, a fixed rear wing made from carbon fiber replaces the active spoiler offered on the standard RC F. The fixed wing is not only lighter, it does double duty by simultaneously reducing drag and adding downforce.
To accomplish that paradoxical feat, the engineers started by shaping the wing in a way that smooths the airflow over the rear of the car to decrease drag-inducing turbulence. They then added a very slight angle of attack to produce downforce without compromising the overall airflow. The result is up to 58 pounds of additional downforce compared to the active rear spoiler.
Like the standard model, weight reduction was a key area of focus for the Track Edition. Preliminary estimates put the total reduction at 176 pounds compared to the previous Lexus RC F, but more importantly, the engineers focused on cutting weight that yields the most significant dynamic improvements. This led to keying in on unsprung weight since any weight that can be removed from the mass not supported by the suspension pays huge dividends in handling and steering feel.
With that goal in mind, every Track Edition model is upgraded with Brembo carbon ceramic brake rotors. They are not only significantly lighter than their steel counterparts, they're also better able to withstand the extreme heat cycling associated with performance driving. They are surrounded by a set of lightweight 19" BBS forged alloy wheels that feature a design derived from the RC F GT3 race car. Between the wheels, brake rotors and calipers, the Track Edition boasts a significant 55-pound reduction in unsprung weight on the front of the car alone.
Additional weight was removed by specifying carbon fiber for the roof and hood along with switching to a carbon fiber partition behind the rear seats and a carbon bumper reinforcement. Many of these carbon fiber pieces are made on the same line that supplied the Lexus LFA during its two-year production run. A standard titanium muffler and tail pipes is yet another area where the Track Edition sheds weight. Rarely seen on production cars, the use of titanium not only reduces the overall weight of the individual parts, it gives the Track Edition a polished look along with a unique sound.
That sound is worth enhancing, too, as the Track Edition uses the same 472hp, normally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 found in every 2020 Lexus RC F. In fact, when combined with the Track Edition's reduced curb weight, this RC F has the best power-to-weight ratio among its competitors. Couple that with the new electronic launch control system, and the RC F Track Edition is capable of launching from 0-to-60 mph in 3.96 seconds.
In order to give the Track Edition a more exclusive look on the inside, a red leather interior comes standard along with Alcantara seat accents and red carbon trim on the doors and dashboard. Only two exterior colors will be available: Ultra White and Matte Nebula Gray, an exclusive color only available on the Track Edition.
Both the 2020 Lexus RC F and the RC F Track Edition will start production in the second quarter of 2019.
#237
Moderator
2020 RC F Track Edition
https://jalopnik.com/the-2020-lexus-...tne-1831724878
If you’re looking for a track-friendly sports car, the first brand that comes to mind probably isn’t Lexus. But now it looks like Toyota’s luxury side is looking to change that with the new Lexus RC F Track Edition.
To improve its track worthiness, the new model is 176 lighter than the last RC F and has some new aerodynamic features. Among them are a downforce-inducing front splitter and a carbon fiber rear spoiler, the latter of which, Lexus says in a press release, allows the car to make up to 58 more pounds of downforce, and also reduces drag.
Fifty-five pounds of the overall weight lost, Lexus says, come from a newly designed set of BBS wheels and more performance-ready Brembo carbon ceramic brakes. Other weight was lost with help of a new carbon fiber roof and hood, and a new titanium exhaust. Though even with all of that weight savings, the Track Edition still comes in at a fairly hefty 3,782 pounds.
Still, more downforce, less weight, and carbon fiber goodies—this is track stuff indeed.
The new model was announced alongside the refreshed RC F. Both the standard RC F and the RC F Track Edition get a 5 HP bump from the same engine that was in the pre-refresh car’s engine, a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 that now puts out 472 HP. Both the standard and Track Edition models also get stiffer and lighter suspension bits, more aggressive engine mounts, and redesigned headlights and taillights. The two cars also get a new launch control system that allows the RC F to shoot from 0 to 60 in 3.96 seconds, according to Lexus.
For our suspension nerds, here’s what Lexus specifically says has been changed up from the previous model:
Pricing has not yet been announced for the Track Edition or the standard, refreshed RC F.
Do you think this thing could actually attract serious track rats? Could it actually be “more than a mere accessories package,” like Lexus claims in its press release? We’re going to get a closer look at this thing on theDetroit Auto Show floor later today to find out.
To improve its track worthiness, the new model is 176 lighter than the last RC F and has some new aerodynamic features. Among them are a downforce-inducing front splitter and a carbon fiber rear spoiler, the latter of which, Lexus says in a press release, allows the car to make up to 58 more pounds of downforce, and also reduces drag.
Fifty-five pounds of the overall weight lost, Lexus says, come from a newly designed set of BBS wheels and more performance-ready Brembo carbon ceramic brakes. Other weight was lost with help of a new carbon fiber roof and hood, and a new titanium exhaust. Though even with all of that weight savings, the Track Edition still comes in at a fairly hefty 3,782 pounds.
Still, more downforce, less weight, and carbon fiber goodies—this is track stuff indeed.
The new model was announced alongside the refreshed RC F. Both the standard RC F and the RC F Track Edition get a 5 HP bump from the same engine that was in the pre-refresh car’s engine, a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 that now puts out 472 HP. Both the standard and Track Edition models also get stiffer and lighter suspension bits, more aggressive engine mounts, and redesigned headlights and taillights. The two cars also get a new launch control system that allows the RC F to shoot from 0 to 60 in 3.96 seconds, according to Lexus.
For our suspension nerds, here’s what Lexus specifically says has been changed up from the previous model:
At the rear, hollow half shafts are now used in place of the previous solid shafts while up front a pared down intake manifold and a smaller air conditioning compressor remove weight from the front of the car. Changing to aluminum for the toe control brackets and upper suspension support brackets also reduces weight while maintaining stiffness.
To further refine the feel of the RC F, there are now stiffer bushings for the rear suspension arms and steering rack mounts
To further refine the feel of the RC F, there are now stiffer bushings for the rear suspension arms and steering rack mounts
Do you think this thing could actually attract serious track rats? Could it actually be “more than a mere accessories package,” like Lexus claims in its press release? We’re going to get a closer look at this thing on theDetroit Auto Show floor later today to find out.
#238
The refreshed model looks really good, always thought it was getting long in the tooth already.
Track edition is everything I'd want in a car on paper. Losing 55 lbs of unsprung weight in the front is insane. Combined with the general weight loss, it probably drives very differently. It looks too gaudy and not befitting of a Lexus though.
Track edition is everything I'd want in a car on paper. Losing 55 lbs of unsprung weight in the front is insane. Combined with the general weight loss, it probably drives very differently. It looks too gaudy and not befitting of a Lexus though.
#239
Ex-OEM King
The car still just looks so bloated and fat though...I think it's the way the front end is designed. Just not very sleek.
These are a bargain on the used market though, the normal RC-F that is.
These are a bargain on the used market though, the normal RC-F that is.
#240
Yeah I'm with you. I should elaborate, the RC-F looks good, the regular RC looks a bulky and not really sporty.
It definitely looks like a sedan but with two doors. Introducing the LC - which looks so much better - didn't help the RC any.
It definitely looks like a sedan but with two doors. Introducing the LC - which looks so much better - didn't help the RC any.