Eat your heart out Ridley Scott, because the new Lexus RC-F is looking to slay the competition in true 80s sci-fi style complete with a “Predator” front fascia. And while the RC Coupe is a slightly toned down version that was seen in the Tokyo Motor Show, a “more than 450 horsepower” 5.0 liter V8 lies under the aggressively styled hood.
And in terms of aggressive styling the Lexus takes no prisoners with a massive aero package that gives the RC-F a futuristic look. Huge air ducts redirect air to the engine and brakes to help performance as well as intimidate the opposition, carbon fiber wings and canards apply increasing downforce, keeping the rubber to the tarmac. The carbon fiber wing and roofline are speed active and activates at speeds over 50 miles per hour, while retracting at speeds under 25 mph.
With styling cues being borrowed from the Lexus LFA supercar, one can certainly see where the aerodynamic inspiration came from.
To help the 5.0 liter V8 go along with the RC-F show is the Torque Vectoring Differential system, that will help translate the power and torque through eight gears in the paddle shifter activated Sports Direct Shift transmission. The Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD) gives drivers three settings for attacking their corner of choice. Standard for a balance of nimble performance and stability, Slalom for emphasis on nimble steering response; and finally the track setting that will help stability, ensuring the vehicle stays on the intended corning line as the driver applies more throttle.
“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.”
And a blast it certainly figures to be featuring Lexus’ most powerful V8 configuration in their stable of luxury performance vehicles. Passion and power are some of the underlying themes for this supercar both thematically as well as from an engineering standpoint.
Passion that started from almost the ground up as Lexus’ RC-F rigidity and mechanical grip design started as early as the chassis. With large cross-section rocker panels and a set of specialized Lexus manufacturing methods that are proprietary, Lexus incorporates laser brazing, spot welding and laser welding to name just a few tricks of their trade.
With independent coil-spring suspension and monotube gas filled shocks, the Lexus RC-F also has an adjustable ball-jointed sway bar system that gives the driver freedom to adjust stiffness in rear or front. And with three different variations of 19-inch diameter aluminum wheels that widen the track to provide a lightweight styled racing wheel.
These features along with Lexus’ dedication to engineering, precision and performance brings many people and media pundits to the same conclusion, that the new Lexus RC-F is truly a monster.
Happy Driving!
- Pro Street Staff
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