Lexus has grown its iconic F performance brand and added a new halo model to its range with the launch of the RC F coupe.The RC F is the third Lexus to wear the F badge, following the launch of the IS F in Australia in 2008 and the LFA supercar.
F models are built for drivers to immerse themselves in pure driving pleasure and satisfying performance when driving on public roads.
The RC F achieves this with a V8 engine producing 351kW and 530Nm, stiff chassis, racetrack-developed suspension and brakes, and power delivery via an eight-speed transmission and unique torque vectoring differential.
RC F provides visual drama through its stunning styling and cockpit-like cabin ambience.
RC F is available in a Carbon variant, which applies carbon fibre technology developed for the Lexus LFA supercar to its bonnet, roof, active rear wing and interior trim for weight saving and added visual appeal.
The development of the RC F – which happened alongside the RC Coupe Line – was overseen by the father of the F brand, chief engineer Yukihiko Yaguchi.
Mr Yaguchi developed the IS F and contributed much to the LFA after his work on staples of the Lexus line-up – LS and GS models.
Lexus Australia chief executive Sean Hanley said the RC F is one of the most important vehicles to join the Lexus line up.
“Lexus has been making a concerted effort to display the passion that exists within the brand through the release of exciting cars that go well beyond the quality and luxury that we’re known for,” Mr Hanley said.
“The RC F is now the performance and image flagship of Lexus, and its development at the Fuji and Nürburgring circuits means that it is more than capable at the track, in the hands of both experienced and novice drivers.
“RC F has a lot of depth to its talents – it’s a vehicle that is very comfortable to drive in traffic or interstate, in complete luxury.”
The comfort and safety levels of the RC F are enhanced through high specification levels that include heated and ventilated front seats with semi aniline leather accents, smart key card entry, 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio, moonroof, clearance and rear parking sensor, blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert, eight airbags and lane departure warning.
RC F Carbon adds Alcantara seat fabric along with its carbon fibre panels.
RC F also uses a unique paint application technique recently introduced to road vehicles by Lexus to enhance the depth of its Cobalt Mica, Lava Mica, Infrared and Steel Mica colours.