‘F’ – for ‘Fuji Speedway” where much of Lexus’ high speed development occurs – has become its pinnacle sports brand, adding greater depth to the entire model range on three elements of “Fun”: response, continuous acceleration feeling, and sound that engages with and excites the driver.
RC F is intended to bring great driving pleasure to owners on road and track.
Resolutely powerful design interpretations – both cosmetic and dynamic – distinguish RC F from the RC on which it is based.
To complement its higher horsepower delivery RC F has a far more comprehensive aerodynamic package, including an active rear wing, a purpose-designed brake and suspension system, wider wheels and tyres and unique styling which is functional as well as startling.
An electronically enhanced driveline based on Lexus’ Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management (VDIM) enable amateur drivers to get closer to limits previously attainable only by trained professionals. The same systems generate even greater levels of safety on the open road.
UTLINE
The new RC F coupe has Lexus’ most powerful V8 engine, with 12% more power than the IS F engine on which it is based.
All-new cylinder heads and lighter moving parts have increased the maximum power of the 5.0-litre 32-valve engine by 54PS (40kW) to 477PS (351kW), with maximum revolutions increased from 6800 to 7300rpm. The compression ratio has been raised to 12.3:1, to boost torque across the entire revolution range. The engine and transmission cooling systems have been improved, to increase track-day suitability.
The new engine is matched to an evolved 8-speed Sports Direct Shift (SPDS) transmission, with a more linear response to accelerator-pedal operation.
Uniquely for a Lexus performance engine, the new 2UR-GSE engine adopts the Atkinson cycle when operating at cruising speeds, to deliver enhanced fuel economy.
HIGH PERFORMANCE AND FUEL EFFICIENCY
In cruising condition, fuel economy of the RC F is comparable to a 4.2-litre engine at maximum.
The use of the Atkinson cycle is just one of a number of strategies to optimise fuel economy and achieve Euro 6/LEV3-ULEV70 emission compliance.
In the Atkinson cycle, the inlet valves are held open longer than normal to allow a reverse flow of intake air into the intake manifold, thereby decreasing pumping loss and increasing thermal efficiency.
The Lexus VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Electric motor) technology has been redesigned to extend the range of inlet camshaft timing adjustment for the Atkinson cycle. The Otto cycle is used to achieve RC F’s impressive performance levels.
The stoichiometric air/fuel ratio range has been expanded to 220km/h, for a substantial increase in practical fuel economy during performance and high speed driving.
The new engine was designed to provide instantaneous torque, as in the Lexus LFA, whereby the driver can feel torque output increasing during acceleration.
Special features of the RC F engine also include titanium valves, forged connecting rods, an optimised exhaust layout to more effectively harness exhaust pulses and an air-cooled oil cooler for optimum durability. Internal engine parts have been redesigned to reduce reciprocating and hence increase engine response and revolutions.
The majority of the engine parts are new, including the intake manifold and throttle body, intake and exhaust valve train, motor-driven VVT, cylinder head and cylinder-head cover, Lexus D-4S dual injection system, spark plugs, piston and piston rings, connecting rod, crankshaft, crank main bearing and cap, exhaust manifold and heat insulator, oil pan and baffle plate, alternator clutch system, and engine and transmission oil coolers.