THERE’S upgrades everywhere on the new 2018 Lexus RC F, with the sports coupe getting a host of significant improvements, an updated interior and an expanded range of safety technology.
The new RC F is now fully equipped with Drive Start Control to ensure smooth starts and optimal rapid acceleration when the driver is using the shift lever, with the control system manages power and torque delivery from the coupe’s high-revving naturally aspirated V8.
Coupled seamlessly with the eight-speed transmission, DSC enhances the coupe’s sublime rear-wheel-drive dynamics. And in a cool twist, the system won’t engage when traction control is off, so you can still have fun and drive ‘enthusiastically’.
A light in the instrument panel indicates when the system is operational. The RC F also gains a a custom mode for its Drive Mode Select, enabling drivers to set their preferred power train, chassis and air conditioning settings.
It retains its excellent active variable suspension system, while inside, the luxury interior now features a 10.3-inch display audio screen and the multimedia system has also been upgraded. The Lexus Remote Touch pad is larger, making it easier to use.
An improved Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+) suite of technologies for the RC F results in the pre-collision safety function being able to detect pedestrians as well as other vehicles, with improved radar active cruise control.
LSS+ also incorporates an upgraded lane departure warning function (LDW+) that now includes steering assist and steering-wheel vibration alert. Automatic high beam is also part of the package.
The RC F is distinguished by a 5.0-litre V8 engine producing 351kW of power and 530Nm of torque, as well as a stiff chassis, torque-vectoring differential and racetrack-developed suspension and brakes.
The paint palette now includes Zinnia Yellow, which was introduced with the flagship LC coupe while Titanium replaces Sonic Silver. The RC F Carbon’s 20-spoke forged high-grade alloy wheels have a new matte finish.
The halo V8 RC F is also offered with Carbon variant which applies carbon-fibre technology to its roof, active rear wing and interior trim for weight saving and added visual appeal. The bonnet is now aluminium, replacing carbon fibre.
Despite the higher specification, competitive pricing has been maintained for the RC F with prices starting from $138,100 plus on-roads, an increase of just $149.
