Lexus RC F is a predatory sport coupe with a 450-horsepower beating heart

Tue, 14 Jan 2014

Take a look at that face. We can't be the only ones who see an automotive Predator staring back, right? Certainly, the Lexus RC F Coupe boasts a visually striking design that some are going to love and others are going to hate, but we can at least appreciate that it's aggressive, especially compared to the standard RC Coupe that we saw at the Tokyo Motor Show. And with good reason – there's a 5.0-liter V8 engine sitting under that massively domed hood with "more than 450 horsepower," along with a newly calibrated eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Interestingly, Lexus has tuned the RC F's engine to run on an Atkinson cycle under most circumstances, while it switches to the more typical Otto cycle when more power is required, presumably using some sort of advanced variable valve timing technology. Helping put that power to the ground with all those ponies wreaking havoc underhood is a torque vectoring differential, a first from Lexus.

Also involved in keeping the RC F planted is an aero package that includes wings and ducts galore. The headline bit is an active rear wing that deploys at 50 miles per hour and retracts back into the deck when the car drops back to 25 mph. A clear-coated carbon fiber roof can optionally join that carbon rear wing. There are apparently going to be three 19-inch wheel options, including the ones you see in our live image gallery above.

Inside the cockpit, the design is much less aggressive, which is fine, since this machine is going into production. In fact, it looks a heck of a lot like what you'll see inside the Lexus IS at your local dealer. Exceptions are few, and the most prominent difference is the reconfiguration of the brand's Remote Touch, with the little mouse pointer thingy being replaced by what appears to be a touchpad.

Take a look at our high-res gallery of live images above, then scroll down to read the official press release below.

Faster, Sharper, Lower, Wider – All-New Lexus RC F Performance Coupe Elevates the Driving Experience

Lexus' Most Powerful V8 Engine Generates More than 450 Horsepower
Latest Iteration of the F Marque in a Coupe Bodystyle
Lexus-First Use of Torque Vectoring Differential for Incredible Cornering
Purpose Designed Instrumentation and Sport Seats

January 14, 2014
DETROIT (Jan. 14, 2014) – Want power, precision and passion? Lexus revealed its most powerful V8 engine in the all-new 2015 RC F performance coupe at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The F performance model, based on the RC coupe, gets its powerful roar from more than 450 horsepower and more than 383 lb.-ft. torque.

To get that amount of power efficiently to the ground the RC F will make use of a Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD) to ensure remarkable handling and performance. The power will transfer through a newly calibrated eight-speed Sports Direct Shift (SPDS) transmission with paddle shifters.

"I've built RC F to be enjoyed by all enthusiasts – no matter what their level of expertise," said RC F chief engineer Yukihiko Yaguchi.

"There's a misconception that racing cars are hard to drive. In fact, they're easy in the right hands because they've been purpose-built for the skill level of their drivers. It's the same with RC F.

"Electronics can be modified instantly on board to provide appropriate levels of performance and protection. But even at its basic setting, it's a blast."

Driving Dynamics with More Power and Usability
The RC F has an all-new 5.0-liter 32-valve V8 engine that will provide increased maximum power at higher engine rpm than previously possible. For the first time in a Lexus performance engine, the RC F uses the Atkinson cycle at cruising speeds for enhanced fuel economy and then switches to the Otto cycle at higher rpm to develop impressive performance levels.

Driver engagement has been made possible by purpose designed sound and power delivery. A uniquely tuned eight-speed Sports Direct Shift (SPDS) transmission improves linear throttle response.

It helps the driver control the torque and power precisely as it is applied.

The newly calibrated VDIM adds a vertical G-sensor to provide greater vehicle stability

Torque Vectoring Differential
The RC F uses a Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD), a first in a Lexus, to increase driving performance. It has three operating modes:

Standard for a balance of nimble performance and stability;
Slalom for emphasis on nimble steering response; and
Track to help with consistent stability, ensuring the vehicle stays on the intended corning line as the driver applies more throttle.

Handling
The foundation for the vehicle's mechanical grip is the highly rigid body with large cross-section rocker panels and a very stiff front lower brace. Specialized Lexus manufacturing techniques are also used, including body adhesives, laser-screw welding, laser brazing and multi-spot welding. Grip is further enhanced through use of a wider tire and wheel assembly.

RC F has front and rear coil-spring independent suspension, with monotube gas-filled shock absorbers and ball-jointed stabilizer bars. Unsprung weight is reduced by the adoption of three new 19-inch diameter forged aluminum wheels which minimize tire/wheel assembly mass and maximize rigidity.

Exterior Design
Lexus RC F adds to the stylish body of the new RC coupe on which it is based. The RC F features its own version of the Lexus signature spindle grille which dominates the front of the vehicle from hood line to lower lip. The grille has a subtle F-mesh pattern on the lower half.

In profile view RC F has a unique front hood which raises the peak of the vehicle, creating a powerful side view.

The RC F takes design cues from the Lexus LFA supercar, especially in essential air cooling and aerodynamics. Its hood air vent, such as those on the LFA, combined with front cooling ducts contribute to engine cooling and overall vehicle stability.

As in the LFA, an active rear spoiler is incorporated into the trunk lid to provide down force at speeds of more than 50 mph. The active spoiler is a highlight of RC F's aerodynamic package which includes careful tuning of the underbody, the intakes in the grille and the front fender vents, and strategic placement of the aero stabilizing fins.

To the side, front fender ducts in the shape of an L also aid cooling performance while adding to the aggressive stance.

The RC F's available carbon fiber package offers a clear coated carbon fiber roof and active rear spoiler drawn from the LFA production experience.

Interior Design
Uniquely designed components, including combination meters, the steering wheel, seats, ornamentation and pedals, convey a sense of connection with the driver that only a Lexus F performance model can achieve.

RC F's all-new combination meters are further developed from LFA while also referencing aircraft cockpit instruments. The meters provide a wide range of easy to read information for the various drive modes.

The combination meters include a large centrally mounted tachometer that alters according to drive mode, digital and analog speedometer, differential torque vectoring monitor, G-Force meter, oil and water temperature gauges, mileage information and a stopwatch.

The driver's connection to the RC F is paramount. The RC F debuts a Lexus-first elliptical cross-section thick grip steering wheel for greater control during performance driving. The placement, shape and operation of paddle shifters make it easier to change gears on the track and in other performance circumstances.

The all-new high back seats have been designed for exceptional holding performance. An integrated foaming technique creates a highly supportive and taut fitting seat with trim material that stays fixed.

By Jeremy Korzeniewski