2020 Lexus RC F features significant update, introduces Track Edition

The Lexus RC F has been an interesting vehicle in the Lexus lineup. When it was originally launched, it was a mishmash of several Lexus cars, namely the IS and the GS, and was the Japanese take on the muscle/pony car, sporting a roaring V8 under the hood. For 2020, the Lexus RC F gets a healthy update, featuring new styling updates, and the introduction of a more focused model aimed at taking on your local racing circuits.

One of the main targets of the 2020 Lexus RC F was to boost performance, reduce weight, and deliver a new look. Things like hollow shafts and a smaller intake manifold and air conditioning compressor decrease the weight at the front. Aluminum suspension components and support brackets also reduce weight while maintaining stiffness. For more feel, stiffer bushings for the rear suspension arms and steering rack mounts have been implemented, together with more rigid engine mounts to better transmit power from the naturally-aspirated 5.0L V8. The engine has received a bump in output, now hitting 472 horsepower (5 more hp) and 536 Nm of torque (8 more Nm of torque). The eight-speed automatic transmission is carried over, but has been tweaked to deliver better off-the-line response.

Launch control is now included as standard, and specifically designed Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires that utilize a new profile shape, tread pattern, and rubber compound, help reduce understeer and improve lateral grip.

In terms of looks, subtle changes to the RC F bring it into the current look of the Lexus family. Stacked LED headlights with integrated daytime running lights have been tweaked to match the rest of the family.  The shape of the signature grille has been altered by adding a lower lip opening that stretches across the bottom. At the rear of the car, new taillights and a reshaped bumper give the RC F a cleaner and more muscular appearance.

With the introduction of the limited RC F Track Edition, those looking for a coupe that you can drive hard on the track and still have a luxurious ride on the street will find something to love here. A precise set of upgrades work together to create a new level of performance for the RC F. Up front, the unique front splitter with canards is not only made from carbon fiber to reduce weight, it’s also designed to increase front end downforce for better grip and more precise steering. At the rear of the car, a fixed rear wing made from carbon fiber replaces the active spoiler offered on the standard RC F. You’ve also got Brembo carbon ceramic brake rotors, and lightweight 19-inch BBS forged alloy wheels. Carbon fiber for the hood and roof plus a carbon fiber partition for the rear seats help reduce weight considerably. Titanium exhaust pipes are also on the RC F Track Edition, creating a more polished look and unique exhaust note.

Both the 2020 Lexus RC F and the RC F Track Edition will start production in the second quarter of 2019, with pricing soon after that. With the success of the Lexus RC F in the local market, it won’t come as a surprise if 2020 RC F does make a local appearance. That Track Edition, however, will probably be by order only. In any case, it’s good to see that naturally-aspirated 5.0L V8 still roaring underneath modern coupes.