Lexus RC F Track Edition

With a world premiere at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit Lexus is trying to aim at a new group of potential buyers. Whereas the sporty F-offshoots of some model series used to be primarily high-performance variants, the Track Edition of the facelifted RC F sets clear accents in the direction of the racetracks. As in the normal RC F, the drive is a five-liter V8 engine with 463 hp and a maximum torque of 520 newtonmeters. An eight-speed automatic transmits this power to the rear axle, with a longer ratio for the eigth gear in comparison to the pre-facelift model. The Coupé accelerates to 100 kph (62 mph) in 4.5 seconds thanks to an electronic launch control system. Newly developed Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires with a special tread and rubber compounds tailored to the RC F, the car achieves more lateral support while increasing durability.

Like the regular RC and its sporty offshoot RC F, the new Lexus RC F Track Edition gets more compact LED headlights with integrated daytime running lights, modified LED tail lights and new front and rear bumpers – here made from carbon. With targeted measures for the aerodynamics and some development aid by Lexus racing teams from IMSA and Japanese Super GT, the Track Edition received a much sharper profile. They first focussed on an improved air resistance in combination with more downforce. At first glance, this seems contradictory, especially if you look at the wide, fixed rear wing on the boot lid. But not only is it lighter than the active rear spoiler on the regular RC F, it also has been extensively engineered in the wind tunnel to smooth the air flow around the car, before the engineers set it in a little pitch to generate downforce. It works together with the front spoiler and the rear diffuser.

Compared to the pre-facelift RC F, the Track Edition according to first estimates saves between 70 and 80 kilograms in weight. The Japanese brand achieves this mainly through an increased use of carbon fiber components, for example the new hood, the roof, the partition between rear seats and trunk as well as some reinforcements in the bumpers. In addition an exhaust system partially made of titanium, carbon-ceramic brakes from Brembo and BBS 19-inch alloy wheels also add to the weight saving. At the front axle alone, the unsprung masses could be lowered by 25 kilograms.

There are only two paint colors available for the new RC F Track Edition. Next to ‘Ultra White’ there is the exclusive matt color ‘Basalt Grey’. Inside, the Coupé features red leather with Alcantara highlights and red-colored carbon decor trim at dashboard and door cards. Prices for the new top model will be available closer to the market launch in March 2019.

Images: Lexus