Lexus Launches All-new 'RC F' High-performance Coupe in Japan

Tokyo, October 23, 2014－Lexus' all-new high-performance coupe, the "RC F", went on sale today in Japan, with prices¹ ranging from 9,530,000 yen to 10,300,000 yen, including consumption tax. Lexus aims to sell 30 units per month here.

The RC F is a premium sports car that can be driven on racing circuits and boasts an aggressive design that fully delivers the sporty image expected of the Lexus "F" marque. While based on the new "RC" coupe, which was also launched today, the RC F features additional aerodynamic parts and incorporates a range of exclusive equipment and advanced technologies into the engine and suspension. The RC F was created to provide passionate drivers with absolute driving satisfaction.

Developed as a sports car to put a smile on the face of anyone who loves driving, whether a professional or not, the RC F delivers a refined driving performance that is fun to drive anywhere from local roads to racing circuits. It comes with optional Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD), a first-of-its-kind² drive control system for rear-wheel drive vehicles. Through electronic control of left and right rear wheel drive power, TVD optimizes vehicle behavior when cornering, according to driving conditions. It comes with three control modes: Standard, Slalom and Circuit. A new Expert Mode, part of the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, allows drivers to hone their circuit driving skills: when VDIM is turned off, Expert Mode only intervenes to prevent loss of control. VDIM has further evolved through integration of the new TVD with the Anti-lock Braking System, using vertical acceleration sensors, to deliver both high vehicle stability and a fun drive.

In addition to a redesigned cylinder head and conrods, the RC F powertrain has a new V8 5.0-liter engine using D-4S³ fuel injection technology and Dual VVT-i technology with VVT-iE⁴, which delivers the response and exhilarating sense of engine speed of a naturally aspirated engine. During urban driving and other low-load situations, the powertrain switches to Atkinson-cycle engine combustion to achieve both high fuel efficiency and high output. The 8-Speed Sport Direct Shift provides a true sports driving experience through gear changes that take as little as 0.1 seconds from the 'M' position.

The low center of gravity characteristic of a coupe gives the RC F a styling that embodies its aggressive driving performance. The RC F expresses its individuality with a new Lexus F series-exclusive black lacquer plated grille molding and a double spindle design formed by a spindle grille with large brake cooling ducts combined with oil cooler openings to the left and right of the front bumper. With the addition of a trapezoidal four-way exhaust diffuser, L-shaped side air outlets and other parts, the RC F inherits the visual identity of the F series. Thanks to elements such as the hood air outlet and active rear wing which deploys according to vehicle speed, the RC F guarantees effective cooling and aerodynamic performance. The RC F is also offered with four different 19-inch forged aluminum wheels.

The RC F is available in seven body colors, including the new Heat Blue Contrast Layering, which evokes the image of a pale blue flame, and Lava Orange Crystal Shine, which expresses a passion for driving.

The interior of the RC F features high-back sports seats with integrated headrests that have optimal hold and stable posture distribution thanks to their special integrated foaming construction. This, in addition to stitching that follows the contours of the occupant's body, ensures that the seats provide exceptional fit. The steering wheel and shift knob also come with an exclusive design that employs three-color overlock stitching in white, black and blue⁵ on non-slip dimpled genuine leather. Combined with gauges that change display according to the drive mode selected―an exclusive styling for F models―the RC F offers a truly unique vehicle interior.

The RC F is also available with a Carbon Exterior package available, which reduces vehicle weight by approximately ten kilograms and allows a more sporty and agile driving experience thanks to a carbon fiber hood and roof produced at Lexus' LFA Works, and a TRD carbon fiber active rear wing. The addition of two-tone coloring also gives the Carbon Exterior Package a uniquely impressive look. The package will go on sale in Japan at around the end of January 2015.

To provide amazement and thrills that surpass expectations, Lexus will boost the visibility of the RC F by using the car as its base racing model. Lexus has already entered a race car based on the RC F into the GT500 class of Japan's Super GT series. As part of its global motorsports activities, Lexus is currently test driving and developing an RC F-based race car which supports the GT3 international racing standards of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA). While development support is ongoing, GT3 cars are being supplied to teams around the world for entry into suitable races (including the Nürburgring VLN endurance series and 24 Hours Nürburgring endurance races in Germany, and Japan's Super Taikyu series and Super GT GT300 class series).

The RC F will be at http://www.lexus-int.com/models/RC-F/.

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