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August 24, 2015
Lexus RC Gains F SPORT and Racing Variants | Lexus
Lexus RC F SPORT
Lexus RC F GT3 Concept
Two Sporty Lexus RCs Debut at the Geneva Motor Show
Lexus willthe 84th Geneva International Motor Showfor the world premiere of the new sports coupe "RC "F SPORT"" and the "RC F GT3 concept," a concept model based on its high-performance counterpart, the RC F.
Text by OHTO Yasuhiro
Lexus's Signature Sporty Model: "F SPORT"
The new Lexus sports coupe, theRC, wasthe 43rd Tokyo Motor Showpremiered at the 43rd Tokyo Motor Show. Available in the "RC350" with a 3.5-liter V6 engine and the "RC300h" hybrid model combining a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine with an electric motor, it boasts a sporty and dynamic design with an aggressive front fascia that emphasizes Lexus's signature spindle grille.
While featuring a wider track, the wheelbase is 70mm shorter than that of the sporty sedanIS, achieving agile handling. Atthe Detroit Motor Show earlier this year, the high-performance modelRC Fwas also unveiled, drawing attention for its aggressive design and the enhanced new 5.0-liter V8 unit.
Now, at the Geneva Motor Show, the "RC350 F SPORT," a sporty grade reflecting the "F" ethos in its details, makes its world premiere.
The striking spindle grille of the front mask inherits the "F" shape from the RC F, with a simple mesh pattern at the top that flows into an "F" formation towards the bottom. It is equipped with sporty 10-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels featuring cut-and-polish treatment and dark metallic paint, as well as a movable meter inherited from the LFA.
Naturally, the suspension has also been enhanced with dedicated tuning. Furthermore, the shock absorbers feature electronic control of damping force, balancing optimal ride comfort and stable handling in various conditions. An LHD system is also available, optimally controlling the steering angle of all four wheels based on vehicle speed and steering input, achieving exceptional agility and outstanding stability at medium to high speeds, along with ease of maneuverability at low speeds. The Lexus RC is scheduled for release in the latter half of 2014.
Lexus RC F SPORT
Lexus RC F GT3 Concept
Two Sporty Lexus RCs Debut at the Geneva Motor Show
The RC F: Transformed into a Racing Machine
Unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show earlier this year, theLexushigh-performance model, the RC F, serves as the foundation for the "RC F GT3 concept," a racing car concept making its debut at the Geneva Motor Show.
Developed in accordance with GT3 regulations, its power unit is based on the RC F's 5.0-liter V8 engine, with a target output exceeding 397kW (540ps). The vehicle weight is also targeted at a mere 1,250kg.
Its exterior can be described as a realistic evolution of the vehicle displayed atthe Tokyo Auto Salon in January.
Lexus plans to begin supplying vehicles compliant with GT3, the international racing standard certified by the FIA, from 2015.
Numerous races, including the Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race in Europe and Japan's SUPER GT and Super Taikyu series, are open to GT3-spec vehicles. To supply cars to teams worldwide competing in these races, Lexus will conduct test runs starting in 2014 and is proceeding with vehicle development towards obtaining FIA GT3 homologation.
This project is rooted in the brand spirit of continuously providing customers with surprising and moving experiences that exceed expectations. Moving forward, Lexus will expand its activities beyond motorsports to offervarious opportunities for general drivers to experience the joy of motorsports.