Lexus has updated the RC F Coupe for the 2020 model year and also added a limited production variant called RC F Track Edition.
The revised styling of the RC F is a minor one, a “facelift” if you will. Unless someone points out the changes, you probably wouldn’t notice them at all. There are new headlamps with integrated LED DRLs, taillamps, revised bumpers and new wheels. The shape of the signature grille has been slightly altered by adding a lower lip opening that stretches across the bottom to create a visually shorter front fascia. The designers have played it safe with the new RC F, which is not really a bad thing.
Measures have been taken to cut down weight. At the rear, hollow half shafts replace the solid shafts while at the front, a pared-down intake manifold and a smaller air conditioning compressor reduce weight from the front of the car. Aluminum toe control brackets and upper suspension support brackets further reduce the weight while maintaining stiffness.
Stiffer bushings for the rear suspension arms and steering rack mounts have been added to further refine the driving experience.
There are no drastic changes on the inside too; everything looks well laid out and functional. This particular interior with tastefully applied red accents, is of the aforementioned RC F Track Edition, which we’ll talk about in a minute.
The RC F’s naturally aspirated 5.0L V8 now produces 472 hp (+5 hp) and 536 Nm of torque (+8 Nm), thanks to a revised intake routing and lower rpm trigger point for the secondary intake opening (2,800 rpm vs 3,600 rpm). The 8-speed automatic transmission has been carried over, however, a higher final drive ratio (3.13 vs 2.93) should improve off-the-line response.
The 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 standstill. 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, Lexus said.
Additional performance is delivered by new Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires designed specifically for the RC F. Compared with the standard Michelin specifications, the tires on the RC F get a unique profile shape, tread pattern and rubber compound. Apparently, the changes are specifically designed to reduce understeer, improve overall lateral grip and increase durability under extreme conditions.
As for the mean-looking RC F Track Edition, it gets some aerodynamic elements on the exterior. Up front, the carbon fibre air dam reduces weight, while also increasing downforce for better grip and more precise steering. At the rear, a fixed rear wing made from carbon fibre replaces the active spoiler offered on the standard RC F. Lexus says that the fixed wing produces 58 pounds (26 kg) of additional downforce compared to the active rear spoiler.
Also, notice the stacked LED headlamps and smoked tail lamps on the Track Edition. Rounding off the exterior looks are a set of lightweight 19-inch BBS forged alloy wheels which apparently are derived from the RC F GT3 race car. Behind the wheels are Brembo carbon ceramic rotors.
Between the wheels, brake rotors and calipers, the Track Edition boasts a 55-pound (25 kg) reduction in unsprung weight on the front of the car alone. More weight can be reduced by opting for carbon fibre parts such as the roof, hood, and carbon fibre partition behind the rear seats. A standard titanium muffler and tailpipes are yet another areas where the Track Edition sheds weight.
The RC F Track Edition gets the same 5.0L V8, however, the 0-60 mph (96.5 km/h) time is claimed to be less than 4.0 seconds.
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 Nebula Matte Gray – exclusive for the Track Edition.
Both the 2020 RC F and the RC F Track Edition will start production in the second quarter of 2019. Prices will be announced at a later date.
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