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Lexus RC F GT3 Racing Concept threatens to go racing

In case you needed more proof that the Lexus RC F is a statement car intended to scream "This is not your father's brand" (yes, we're paraphrasing the tagline of another automaker), here it is: the Lexus RC F GT3 Racing Concept. Lexus introduced a GT500-spec version of the RC F at the Tokyo Auto Salon last month, but this GT3-spec entrant and its Reading Rainbow paint job will get to show off at the Geneva Motor Show to whet the appetites of European racing outfits.
Although referred to as a concept, it will shake that name off when it completes a season of testing this year. Next year, Lexus will make it available to paying customers, and says the car will be cleared to race in the Occident and in Japan's Super GT series alongside its GT500 cousin.

Updated 2016 Lexus LX 570 bows in Monterey

Lexus just pulled the wraps off its 2016 LX 570, and though the updates are minor, they're long overdue. A new one-piece spindle grille – framed by a satin chrome trim – defines the front end aesthetically, and adds a more aggressive look, bringing the eight-passenger SUV up to speed with Lexus's current design language. New LED headlights, turn signals, and foglights further distinguish the front end. The LX 570 adds new wheels, the standard 20-inch split 10-spoke wheels, with an available 21-inch option. While the new LX keeps the brawny 5.7-liter V8 – rated at 383 horsepower, with 403 pound-feet of torque available at 3,600 rpm – it adds a new transmission. For 2016 the LX 570 drops the six-speed in favor of a new eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination means the LX is capable of towing 7,000 pounds, and we expect the 4WD system – the LX flaunts its Toyota Land Cruiser roots – to be as formidable as on the current model. Drivers will appreciate the new Drive Mode Select, which adjusts throttle and suspension calibration with the turn of a dial. The system works in conjunction with the adaptive variable suspension, which adjusts damping, and makes for a smoother ride in the cabin. Drivers can choose from four modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Sport +. The LX gets more standard safety features for 2016, including the Lexus Safety System+, a blind spot monitoring system with rear cross traffic alert, and a tire-specific TPS that gives pressure readings for each tire. Additionally, the multimedia system gets a boost with a new 12.3-inch screen with a remote-touch interface. The Panoramic View Monitor, and "Climate Concierge" are now standard features, while a heads-up display is now an available option. Scroll down for the full details in the press release. Making a Classic Entrance: Lexus Debuts Refreshed 2016 LX 570 Luxury Utility Vehicle at Pebble Beach Concours d' Elegance ???? - Redesigned Exterior Highlighted By One-Piece Spindle Grille ? New Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission - More Standard Safety Features: Lexus Safety System +, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Tire Specific Tire Pressure Monitoring System - Upgraded Multimedia With Larger 12.3-inch Screen and Remote Touch Interface - Added Standard Features Including Panoramic View Monitor and Climate Concierge - Available Lexus Enform Service Connect - Available Heads-up Display MONTEREY, Calif. – Aug.

Lexus adds RC 200t, RC 300 AWD for 2016

Do you really like the Lexus RC 350, but wish it had just a bit lower cost of entry? Good news for you then, as Lexus has just added a pair of new models to its two-door lineup. The RC now mimics the powertrain options for the 2016 IS. The new RC 200t slashes the cost of entry for the two-door Lexus, but it's unclear by how much. Lexus hasn't published pricing for the 241-horsepower, 258-pound-foot 200t, although we can come up with a ballpark based on the four-door model. The IS 200t starts at $38,265 compared to the IS 350's $41,810 price. Assuming the cars are similarly scaled, there's roughly a $3,500 price difference between the 350 and the 200t, so our best guess for the RC 200t is $40,200. As for the new RC 300 AWD, it uses the same 3.5-liter V6 as the IS 300, offering up 255 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque with standard all-wheel drive. As for the RC's other V6 option, the RC 350 will continue to be offered up with both rear- or all-wheel drive. Power output remains pegged at 306 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. Scroll on for the full press blast on the new RC, which will also come with a smattering of smaller changes for 2016. Related Video: LEXUS RC COUPE ENHANCED FOR 2016 WITH TRIO OF ENGINE CHOICES - NEW TURBOCHARGED ENGINE AND V6 AWD Three Engine Options: 241 hp Turbocharged 4-Cylinder, 255 hp V6 and 306 hp V6 Ultra-Stiff Platform for Exceptional Handling F SPORT Model with Electronic Suspension Damping and Rear-Wheel Steering Available Lexus Enform Service Connect Offers Peace of Mind October 02, 2015 -- The RC luxury sport coupe was introduced to Lexus' stable for the 2015 model year and it returns for 2016 model year with new engine variants. The new RC 200t and RC 300 AWD join the RC 350 for a more extensive luxury coupe line-up that offers drivers more horsepower options to fit their needs. In addition, the Lexus RC features several other changes for 2016. The RC 200t F SPORT and 350 RWD F SPORT now offer optional orange brake callipers and Limited Slip differential. Performance dampers are standard for RC 200t and available for RC 350 RWD F SPORT. Eminent White Pearl exterior paint replaces Starfire Pearl. Drivers can now opt in for additional peace of mind with Lexus Enform Service Connect. Lexus Enform Service Connect (one-year complimentary subscription) allows customers to remotely view information about certain aspects of their Lexus vehicle via the MyLexusandBeyond mobile application for iOS smartphone users or LexusDrivers.com.