GS F and RC F GT3 Concept Unveiled Simultaneously

On the morning of the second press day at the Detroit show, the Lexus "GS F" appeared before a crowd of reporters. With F models accounting for a quarter of Lexus sales in the US, there are high expectations for the success of this sporty model.

Lexus presented two vehicles to the press: the new Lexus GS F and the Lexus "RC F," which will compete in the FIA GT3 Championship. Rumors of these two models being exhibited had been circulating since late last fall, so this unveiling is not a hasty development driven by recent drops in crude oil prices or economic upturns.

Nevertheless, the arrival of these sporty models coincides perfectly with the market's increasing focus on performance. The blue Lexus GS F, clad in a body kit with lightweight aerodynamic parts, makes a strong impression with its spindle grille gleaming in chrome. The engine is a 5-liter V8, also found in the RC F, producing 348kW (473ps) and 527Nm of torque. Sales are slated for the latter half of 2015.



"In 2014, with the introduction of the RC F, we achieved record sales of 300,000 units in the US. With the addition of the GS F, which offers unprecedented appeal, we expect to attract new customer segments in 2015," said Jeff Bracken, General Manager of Lexus, at the press conference.

As Bracken mentioned, one in four Lexus buyers in the US chooses an F Sport model, making it a brand with a strong appeal to performance-oriented users. The marketing efforts focused on "F" have paid off. "The beauty of 'F' is that it can be enjoyed by drivers of all skill levels, not just professionals. We aim to lower the average age of our users by 5 to 12 years with our sporty models," Bracken stated.

Unveiled alongside the GS F's world premiere was the RC F GT3 concept. This is a GT3-class racing vehicle adorned with a prominent new "F" logo.

"Lexus has a history of success in motorsports, including winning the Daytona 24 Hours with the Riley Mk XI Lexus from 2006 to 2008. We intend to expand our global racing activities," declared General Manager Bracken proudly before the assembled press.