Luxury car maker Lexus has released details of the new Lexus RC F, which they say will be a thoroughbred performance machine powered by a new V8 engine. The high performance coupe will look to take on rivals such as BMW’s M4 and Audi’s RS5.
It will be the most powerful V8 Lexus has ever produced for a road-going car, and they say its engineered “to deliver an exhilarating experience, from the moment the driver presses the throttle.”
The 5.0-litre V8 engine has evolved from the lump that featured in the previous IS F model, but has been reworked to improve upon the power output, performance and driveability.
Specific measures were taken in the engine’s design to raise engine rpm, including the use of titanium inlet and exhaust valves, new high-strength forged connecting rods and new main-bearing materials.
This has increased the power to 471bhp (351kW) and raised the rev limit from 6,800 to 7,300rpm – all of which is controlled via an 8 speed automatic gearbox.
Thenew higher, 12.3:1 compression ratio boosts torque across the entire rev range, with maximum output rising to 530Nm, available from 4,800 to 5,600rpm.
The high spec coupe has an official top speed of 168mph and a zero to 62mph time of just 4.5 seconds – and a 400m sprint from standstill takes 12.5 seconds.
“The RC F has been designed to deliver exception driver rewards in terms of grip, handling and involvement.” Say Lexus.
The RC F is available to order now, two versions are on offer: the standard RC F which will set you back £59,995, and the range topping RC F Carbon which comes in at £67,995 – and comes with the Torque Vectoring Differential and Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic composite bonnet, roof and rear spoiler as standard.
Order books are open now with customer deliveries expected from January 2015.
