2019 Lexus RC F and RC F Track Edition unveiled at Detroit Auto Show

Lexus revealed the facelifted RC F along with a new, performance focused version, christened as the RC F Track Edition. Boasting a host of minor changes along with a few major updates, the cars will continue to sport the same naturally aspirated 5 litre V8 engine.

The updates start right from the new engine mounts, stiffer bushings on the rear suspension and aluminium in the front suspension to lighter, hollow half-shafts to keep the driveline friction to the minimum. The RC F and the RC F Track edition, both get the same acoustic engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission that now packs 451 ponies and 519Nm. That’s  12hp and 35Nm less than the outgoing model. To enhance the performance, the car gets a compact intake manifold and a smaller air conditioning condenser to keep the front of the car lighter.

The car’s styling has largely remained the same with a few mild updates to the interiors and the tech. The signature stacked exhaust pipes are unchanged but now are complimented by an updated aggressive diffuser while front gets a new carbonfiber lip.

The RC F Track edition is all about keeping the weight down. With a carbonfiber hood, roof and a fixed rear wing, the car gets a lighter 19-inch forged BBS wheels with carbon ceramic brakes in the front. The carbonfiber treatment reflects in the interiors as well. Everything else remains the same as the standard variant with an exception of the titanium exhaust system. The Track Edition variant tips the scale at 1700kg which is 60-70kg lighter than the standard variant.

Though we are not sure if the cars will make it to our shores, we would certainly love to drive one of the few naturally-aspirated performance cars left in the market. You can read more about our experience with the brand here.

Words by Manaal Mahatme