Enthusiasts remember the days of the Toyota Supra very well and at any chance we get we attempt to play up those endless rumors of the Supra making its return. On the other end of the Toyota spectrum the Lexus brand has attempted to fill a void for enthusiasts and the IS F has held its own for long enough and Lexus has introduced an all-new RC F Coupe, marking the performance variant of the all-new IS but with two doors and packing a monstrous V8 engine.
The all-new Lexus RC, a coupe version of the new IS, is said to be an all-new creation with its own chassis and physique. The RC F takes things to a new level with a V8 engine rumored to get upwards of 460 horsepower and potentially the current IS F’s 8-speed automatic transmission. That would make for a nice competitor to the likings of the BMW M4, Audi RS5 and Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG.
Some say what the RC F comes down to is something to easily slot between the large gap formed by Toyota from the new Scion FR-S and exotic Lexus LFA. That gap is sure to close, especially if we were to see a Toyota-ized variation of this RC F that we see here. Can we say “another Supra rumor”?
Ever since the conception of the Lexus IS the Japanese brand has been chasing down the Germans. Until the full specs are released next week during the official debut of the RC F, we really won’t know if it will actually catch the Germans, but so far it looks promising.
UPDATE: Official Press Release gives us additional info and specs with video!
Lexus RC F Redefines the Daily Commute with Asphalt-Grinding Performance and Bold Head-Turning Design
- Global Premiere of RC F Coupe at North American International Auto Show on Jan. 14
- Aggressive Design Cues Demonstrate Performance Potential
- Aerodynamic Wings and Scoops Illustrate Uncompromising Grit
TORRANCE, Calif. (Jan. 8, 2014) – Giving new meaning to “back to the grind,” the daily commute is now transformed into a day at the track with the all-new Lexus RC F. The RC F coupe is styled to support the most powerful V8 performance car ever developed by Lexus.Based on the spectacular all-new RC coupe that was revealed at the Tokyo Motor Show last November, the RC F has wider wheels and tires, an active rear wing, air scoops, cooling ducts and available carbon fiber components, each delivering uncompromising grit to the driving experience.Design Exterior
The signature Lexus spindle grille, featuring a subtle F-pattern on the lower half, dominates the front of the RC F from the bottom of the hood to the lower lip. The hood is higher than that of the RC to accommodate the larger V8 engine and create the powerful flared profile suited to an F model. Ducts beneath the front bumper, fenders, and strategically-placed aerodynamic stabilizing fins create a stance which further identifies the F model.Air outlets at the rear of the front fender form the shape of an L when they merge with side sill extensions, while stacked trapezoidal quad-outlet tailpipes at the rear add further aggression. Taking design cues from the Lexus LFA supercar, the RC F features an available speed-sensitive active rear spoiler. It enhances the coupe’s lines at standstill and deploys from the RC F’s deck at approximately 50 mph and retracts when the speed is less than 25 mph. The wing helps the RC F maintain traction and stability at higher speeds.Three variations of 10-spoke 19-inch forged aluminum wheels are available, including two machine polished designs and one design hand polished by a craftsmen.Design Interior
The striking cockpit-like interior of Lexus RC F complements the aggressive exterior. Unique components include the meters, steering wheel, seats, ornamentation and pedals. The instrument panel is dominated by a central meter which changes according to the four selectable driving modes. The information, color of the display and size of text can be changed.Occupant comfort is all important. RC F debuts a Lexus-first elliptical cross-section thick-grip steering wheel with optimum placement of paddle gear shifts. All-new high back seats with an embossed F on the headrests offer the driver and passenger an exceptional performance fit. The seats are available in a selection of five leather trims, each with contrasting stitching.
Outstanding new L-shaped rubber slits in the brake and accelerator pedals combine form and function to provide better foot grip.
The all-new RC F will be revealed at a press conference at the 2014 North American International Motor Show in W-152, formerly known as the Riverview Ballroom, at Cobo Center Jan. 14 at 8:45 am EST. The Lexus press conference will also be streamed live online at www.lexus-int.com/. Follow the hashtag #AsphaltUp for more developments.
###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.
