We brought you the all-new 2015 Lexus RC Coupe and Performance-oriented Lexus RC F Coupe packed with a 5.0-liter V8 engine several months ago. Now as the Geneva Auto Show boots up this week we bring you the all-new 2015 Lexus RC 350 F Sport coupe to round out the line of RC Coupe vehicles (RC 350, RC 350 F Sport, RC F).
There is no doubt that Lexus has been pushed into making a few more sporty cars not only in the looks department but also make the driving dynamics appeal to true auto enthusiasts looking for that hidden sports car side of Toyota over the course of many years. Now Lexus has broken out of its traditional skin somewhat to bring us the RC 350 in the F Sport trim featuring many traits from its RC F brethren only it gets the smooth 3.5-liter V6 engine with 306 horsepower mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.
So far we like what we see and it is good to see the aggressiveness make it to what is suspected to be a mainstream vehicle from Lexus. Have a look at the fresh images and full press release below.
It’s a Trifecta! – F SPORT Completes All-New Lexus RC Coupe Line-up
- RC 350 F SPORT joins RC 350 and RC F for 2015 Model Year
- Adaptive Variable Suspension Adjusts Damping to Help Maximize Agility
- 19-Inch Alloy Wheels Complement More Aggressive Exterior and Interior Design Features
February 28, 2014GENEVA – Feb. 28, 2014 – And F SPORT makes three. Driving enthusiasts, get ready for more Lexus RC options from which to choose. When the all-new model launches in the U.S. this fall the 2015 Lexus RC 350 F SPORT will join the recently introduced RC 350 sport coupe and RC F performance model.The RC 350 F SPORT will make its world debut at the 2014 Geneva International Motor Show.
The RC is a stand-alone model rather than a two-door derivative of a sedan although it is built on the GS sedan platform. It has the same width as GS and a shorter wheelbase than the IS sedan to help achieve spirited handling and agility.The RC 350 F SPORT, based on the RC 350, will feature exclusive design elements and enhanced driving performance.The F SPORT’s dynamic upgrades include Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and the available Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH) system. These features provide drivers with an even more rewarding and engaging driving experience.Design
Readily identified by a model-specific “F” mesh design, the RC 350 F SPORT features a further evolution of the Lexus spindle grille.The unique 19-inch F SPORT mesh alloy wheels feature machine-finish and dark metallic paint.
The RC 350 F SPORT also inherits a descendant of the innovative LFA driver’s meter with a moving center ring, and an F SPORT perforated leather steering wheel and shift knob. The interior design is completed by Silver Performance trim, an F SPORT-exclusive Rioja Red interior and seats with unique contrast stitching.
Driving Dynamics
Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) is part of the F SPORT package. In response to driving operation, vehicle body motion and road surface conditions, AVS automatically and independently adjusts the performance of the damping at all four wheels. When the vehicle’s SPORT+ drive mode is selected, AVS changes to allow the driver to feel improved body control and precise responses to steering input.The suspension enhancements of the RC 350 F SPORT are complimented by the available four-wheel steering benefits of the Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH) system. This leading edge platform technology offers the integration of Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) and Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS).
Monitoring vehicle speed, steering direction and driver inputs, the system calculates the optimum angle for all four wheels. Using VGRS in the front and DRS in the rear, the system can independently manage both front and rear wheel steering angles to help improve turn-in response, rear grip, vehicle control and overall agility when cornering.
The LDH system monitors vehicle speed and yaw rate, steering angle and speed, and lateral G to calculate the required rear wheel steering input up to a maximum rear wheel angle of 2.0 degrees. The front and rear wheels turn in opposite directions at lower speeds, and in the same direction at higher speeds.
Lexus will introduce the RC 350 F SPORT at a press conference on March 4, at 8:45 a.m. Central European Time at Palexpo’s hall 4, stand number 4211.
Specifications
RC 350 F SPORT Length 184.8 in. Height / mm 54.9 in. Width / mm 72.4 in. Wheelbase / mm 107.5 in. Seating capacity persons 4 Driven wheels Rear-wheel drive Engine type 2GR-FSE Cylinders V6 Horsepower 306 hp @ 6,400 rpm Torque 277 lb.-ft. @ 4,800 rpm Transmission 8AT Suspension Front: Double Wishbone
Rear: Multilink# # #Lexus launched in 1989 with two luxury sedans and a commitment to pursue perfection. Since that time, Lexus has expanded its line-up to meet the needs of global luxury customers. Lexus is now going beyond its reputation for high quality vehicles with the integration of innovative technology, emotional exterior and interior designs, and engaging driving dynamics and performance. With five models incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader. Lexus also offers six F SPORT models and two F models, including the LFA supercar, for top-of-the-line performance. In the United States, Lexus vehicles are sold through 233 dealers who are committed to exemplary customer service.
