Lexus Unveils New RC F @ Detroit

Lexus has revealed the high performance version of its new RC coupe at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Lexus RC F is the most powerful Lexus V8 yet with engine power well above 330kW and more than 520Nm of torque.

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RC F will make world-first use of a Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD) in a front engine rear-drive car to guarantee extraordinary levels of handling and performance. Power will be transfer through a redeveloped eight-speed transmission with Sports Direct Shift (SPDS).

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The most powerful Lexus V8 F model ever built will use an all-new 5.0-litre 32-valve engine with cylinder heads and moving parts that provide increased maximum power at higher engine revolutions than has previously been 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 it switches to the Otto cycle at higher revolutions to develop impressive performance levels. Driver engagement has been made possible by purpose-designed sound and power delivery sensations.

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A uniquely tuned eight-speed Sports Direct Shift (SPDS) transmission improves linear response to accelerator-pedal operation, which lets the driver better feel the torque and power as it is applied and a system of regulating induction and exhaust sound helps create a deep tone up to 3000rpm, and a higher-pitched tone as revolutions rise freely above 6000rpm.

The newly calibrated Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management System (VDIM) adds a vertical G-sensor to provide greater vehicle stability. 

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The wing is a highlight of RC F’s aerodynamic grip and stability package which also includes careful tuning of the flat underbody, the ducts at the rear of the front bumper and front fenders, and strategic placement of aero stabilising fins. 

The foundation for the vehicle’s mechanical grip is the high rigidity body which has large cross-section rocker panels and a highly rigid front lower brace, as well as using specialised Lexus manufacturing techniques, including body adhesives, laser-screw welding and multi-spot welding. Grip is further enhanced through use of a wider tyre and wheel assembly.

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RC F has coil-spring independent suspension front and rear, with monotube gas dampers and ball-jointed stabiliser bars. Unsprung weight is enhanced by the adoption of three grades of new 19-inch diameter forged aluminium wheels which minimise tyre/wheel assembly mass and maximise rigidity.

Technical Specification

	NEW RC F
Power	Over 330kW
Torque	Over 520Nm
Transmission	Eight-speed sequential-shift Electronic Controlled automatic Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i)
Seating Capacity	4
Overall Length	4705mm
Width	1850mm
Height	1390mm
Wheelbase	2730mm
Driven Wheels	Rear Wheel Drive
Kerb Weight	Targets below 1,800kg
Brake Type	Four-wheel power assisted disc brakes (Brembo manufactured for Lexus) with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA)
Wheel size (front and rear)	Fr 19″ x 9J Rr 19″ x 10J
Tyres size	255/35/19 front 275/35/19 rear
0 – 100km/h	Targets faster than IS F (4.8sec)
Top speed	Estimated 270km (electronically limited)
Combined fuel economy#	Target better than IS F (11.4L/100km)

 

Photo Gallery: Lexus RC F

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