The RC F, due for market launch at the end of the year 2014, has at its heart the most powerful V8 engine Lexus has yet produced for a road car. The 5.0-liter, 32-valve unit produces 470 hp and 530 Nm of torque, matched to a specially calibrated, eight-speed Sports Direct Shift transmission.
The RC F includes the world-first use of a torque vectoring differential in a front engine/rear-wheel drive configuration. Three operating modes – Standard, Slalom and Track – let the driver adjust the system to provide the optimum degree of traction and control.
The coupe’s rigid body is a fundamental element in delivering grip, constructed using a number of specialist manufacturing techniques, including new body adhesives, laser-screw welding and multi-spot welding.
The RC F has evolved from the new Lexus RC coupe, which will follow it to market in 2015. In terms of aerodynamics, the car notably include bonnet air outlets and front cooling ducts. The bodywork includes carbon fiber elements to help keep weight down, including the roof, bonnet and active rear wing.
Lexus RC F preliminary technical specifications
| Engine capacity (l) and configuration | 5.0 V8 |
| Max. power (hp/kW) | 470/351 @ 7100 rpm |
| Max. torque (Nm) | 530 |
| Transmission | 8-speed Sports Direct Shift |
| intelligent electronically controlled automatic | |
| Driven wheels | Rear-wheel drive |
| Seating capacity | 4 |
| Overall length (m) | 4,705 |
| Overall width (m) | 1,845 |
| Overall height (m) | 1,39 |
| Wheelbase (m) | 2,73 |
| Kerb weight (kg) | ˂1,800 (target) |
| Brakes | Power-assisted Brembo ventilated discs |
| Wheels | Front – 19 x 9J |
| Rear – 19 x 10J | |
| Tires | Front – 255/35R19 |
| Rear – 275/35R19 | |
| Estimated top speed (km/h) | 270 (electronically limited) |
