Lexus to unveil the aggressive new Lexus “RC F” performance coupe at the North American International Motor Show

Lexus will unveil the aggressive new Lexus “RC F” performance coupe today at the North American International Motor Show in Detroit, USA. The RC F’s styling highlights the vehicle’s optimum high-speed stability—essential for the most powerful ever Lexus V8 performance car.

Based on the spectacular RC coupe that debuted at the Tokyo Motor Show in November last year, the RC F features wider wheels and tires, an active rear wing, air scoops, cooling ducts and carbon fiber components—all delivering Lexus ‘functional beauty’.

“The form of each component is carefully designed to contribute to performance”, said RC F chief engineer Yukihiko Yaguchi. “Unique air outlets in the hood and rear section of the front fenders contribute to optimum engine cooling and vehicle handling stability. They create an aggressive look that immediately conveys the expectation of a dynamic driving experience.”

According to Nobuyuki Negishi, Chief Representative, Middle East and North Africa Representative Office, Toyota Motor Corporation, “Engineered from scratch, one performance layer at a time, the newest F model promises a bold, gritty experience synonymous with the famed Lexus F heritage showcasing an aggressive exterior profile and a striking cockpit to deliver uncompromising performance. The new RC F is an impressive symbol of Lexus's F portfolio which stands for true high performance based on motor-sport technology derived from a pure passion for driving with a unique Lexus perspective on extreme driver engagement. This iconic model is another demonstration of how Lexus is redefining luxury driving by pushing the boundaries of design, innovation and craftsmanship.”

Exterior design

The signature Lexus spindle grille dominates the front view, with a subtle “F” motif embedded in the mesh below the Lexus symbol. Meanwhile, a higher hood that helps create a powerful flared profile and ducts beneath the front bumper and fenders, and strategically placed aerodynamic stabilizing fins, all combine to further identify the vehicle as an F.

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 further the aggressive look. Design cues have been taken from the Lexus LFA supercar: An active rear wing deploys from the deck at 80 km/h and retracts at less than 40 km/h to enhance the coupe’s lines at standstill. Three variations of 10-spoke 19” forged aluminum wheels are available by grade.

Interior design

The striking cockpit-like interior complements the aggressive exterior. Unique components include the meters, steering wheel, seats, ornamentation and pedals. The instrument panel is dominated by a switchable central dial on which information, display color and text size changes in line with the driving mode—four in total—selected.

The RC F prioritizes occupant comfort through such features as a Lexus-first elliptical cross-section thick-grip steering wheel with optimum placement of paddle gear shifts and all-new, high-back seats, embossed with an F on the headrests, styled to resemble form-fitting athletic sportswear and to offe similar levels of support. The seats come in five available leather trims, each with contrast stitching.