For 2018, the RC F offers the Lexus Safety System+ as standard equipment. Also available for the 2018 model year are Dynamic Voice Recognition, Enform Wifi, App Suite 2.0, and a larger navigation screen (10.3”). In addition, Atomic Silver and Flare Yellow are offered as two new exteriors colors.

The luxury coupe features Scout^® GPS Link with a three-year trial. With the app on the driver’s paired phone, navigation maps and turn-by-turn directions appear on the vehicle’s central display screen. In addition, the 2018 RC F offers Enform Safety Connect that provides emergency calling capability to Lexus Enform response centers, available 24/7/365.  And with Enform Service Connect, the RC F can convey its maintenance needs. Using the Lexus Driver mobile app or the LexusDrivers.com website, customers can setup push reminders and alerts for maintenance and service issues.

Lexus developed the RC F to excel on the track as well as the road. Body rigidity, suspension, brakes, tires and all other systems were developed with the expectation that some owners would be taking their cars to track day events.

Looks That Thrill

The RC F sits slightly lower, wider and longer than the RC coupe on which it is based and features wider wheels and tires, an active rear wing, air scoops, cooling ducts and available carbon fiber body features. The signature Lexus spindle grille looks menacing in black mesh. Look closely, and you’ll see the “F” motif repeated in the mesh pattern. The RC F’s stacked exhaust tailpipes leave a memorable parting visual and sonic signature. The exterior design features have a positive aerodynamic benefit—all the intake and outlet ducts are functional, helping to cool the brakes and vent the engine compartment. The air outlets on the hood and fenders not only exhaust hot air, but also help to smooth the airflow toward the rear of the vehicle. 

The RC F cuts the dark with standard LED headlamps and separate L-themed daytime running lamps (DRLs). Available Premium Triple Beam LED headlamps give the RC F an even more striking countenance and light signature. The rear combination lamps also show the distinct Lexus L-shape motif.
 
Earns Its Wing

Some of the RC F’s aerodynamic features are obvious, such as the speed-activated four-link rear wing, while others, including aero spats and fins, blend into the dramatic coupe design. The rear wing deploys from the RC F trunk lid at a vehicle speed of approximately 50 mph to increase downforce, and then retracts as the vehicle’s speed drops below approximately 25 mph. (The driver can also control rear wing deployment from the cockpit.) The optional Performance Package adds a carbon fiber roof and rear wing for lighter weight.
 
467 Horsepower V8

The high-performance, naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 is engineered for low weight and high strength with forged connecting rods, and titanium intake and exhaust valves that allow a 7,300-rpm redline. Add to the mix optimized intake and exhaust manifolds, and the result is an engine that delivers 467 horsepower and 389 lb.-ft. of peak torque.

The high-pressure D-4S direct injection system, which also uses port fuel injectors, allows a high compression ratio (12.3:1) for optimized performance and efficiency. Variable Valve Timing (VVT-iE) enables the engine to operate in the Atkinson cycle at cruising speeds for optimal efficiency and can switch to the Otto cycle for higher performance when accelerating.

The V8 sounds scintillating through the Lexus F trademark stacked tailpipes. The special exhaust system emits a rumbling baritone note, and Active Sound Control (ASC) electronically “boosts” the sound in the cabin via the audio speakers. The driver can turn the ASC system off.
 
Shifting Priorities: 8-speed Sport Direct Shift Automatic Transmission

The 8-speed Sport Direct Shift (SPDS) automatic transmission is the high-performance V8’s ideal dance partner, offering ultra-quick shifts, smooth shift feel, excellent drivability and linear acceleration. Lexus G force Artificial Intelligence Shift control (G AI-SHIFT) enhances performance. When driving in the SPORT S mode, the system selects the suitable gear for sporty driving by monitoring the vehicle’s G sensor while simultaneously tracking throttle opening, making quicker upshifts under acceleration. The G AI-SHIFT blips the throttle on downshifts to match revs.
 
Set the Driving Mode to the Driving Mood

Using the Drive Mode Select feature, the RC F driver can set vehicle performance responses according to the driving situation – or the driver’s mood. NORMAL mode provides the smoothest, most balanced ride quality and drivetrain performance. SPORT S acts on throttle opening and engine output to sharpen performance responses.

SPORT S+ extracts the most from the powertrain and sets the Electric Power Steering (EPS) steering assist for the greatest degree of driving feel. ECO mode helps to enhance fuel efficiency by optimizing throttle opening, engine output and the climate control system.  Custom mode can also be selected by pressing the dial switch once when in Normal mode to provide a combination of vehicle settings.

A Graduate Degree in Track Handling

The RC F earned its handling pedigree from development on the world’s most demanding race circuits, including Fuji in Japan and Germany’s legendary Nürburgring. Starting with the ultra-high-rigidity RC platform, Lexus developed a special chassis for the RC F, including an engine compartment brace joining the front suspension towers and a substantial V-shaped rear-partition brace. A cowl brace connects the front pillar section and apron member, enhancing steering response and roll feel. Rear suspension member mounts are strengthened to help ensure maximum traction.

The 2018 RC F’s Linear Adaptive Variable Suspension (F-AVS) controls damping
force with more precision. Featuring a linear solenoid design, F-AVS was tuned on the Nürburgring to improve steering during cornering and body roll stability. In addition to consistent handling, F-AVS enhances ride smoothness during acceleration and deceleration.

 
Electric Steering Feels Natural

The first thing RC F drivers will feel from the electric power-assisted rack and pinion steering is more feel. A damper-less intermediate shaft increases steering rigidity and ensures high responsiveness to steering input. Lexus RC F offers three 19-inch wheel choices, all made from forged aluminum for optimum rigidity and minimum weight. The RC F uses a staggered wheel and tire setup, with 255/35R19 front tires and 275/35R19 rear tires.

 
Torsen^® Differential

Track performance demands a limited-slip differential (LSD), which is why the RC F comes standard with a Torsen^® LSD and offers an available Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD). During straight-line driving, the Torsen differential controls the left-right speed differential to maintain straight-line stability. On entering corners, the coasting torque due to engine braking is distributed more to the outside wheel, to help maintain stability. Mid-corner and on corner exit, the Torsen LSD distributes drive power according to the load on each rear wheel, to help ensure high traction and maneuverability. 
 
Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD)

The available Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD) is one serous piece of hardware, operated with help from highly advanced software. The TVD enhances dynamic performance by precisely controlling rear wheel torque. Using high-response compact motors, a planetary gear instantaneously changes left-right torque distribution through the engagement of a multi-plate clutch. It operates as quickly as 1/1000th of a second, whether the accelerator is pressed or not, based on data including throttle input, braking, yaw rate, longitudinal and lateral G-force, and other parameters.

Using a switch on the center console, the driver can select one of three distinct settings for the TVD to best suit driving style or conditions: STANDARD delivers a high level of control and agility for everyday driving; SLALOM places additional emphasis on steering response, giving the vehicle a more agile character akin to one with a smaller wheelbase, and TRACK enhances high-speed handling.

VDIM with SPORT and EXPERT Modes

Lexus Vehicle Integrated Dynamics Management (VDIM) integrates the ABS, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and traction control (TRAC) functions to provide proactive, seamless control of basic vehicle performance. VDIM can anticipate a loss of traction and provide smooth control for the normal driving range.

The RC F’s VDIM system features SPORT and EXPERT modes. SPORT mode gives priority to driver control. This mode offers greater enjoyment for track driving, applying optimum VSC/TRAC mapping. EXPERT mode puts more control in the driver’s hands, turning off TRAC, but still using VSC to control the engine and brakes to assist the driver.

In addition, for the RC F, VDIM delegates two brake control functions to the TVD control: drive-force distribution and yaw moment control. VDIM controls the torque transfer co-operatively with the TVD, for more seamless control of driving and turning.

Track-Proven Brakes

The Brembo^® brakes feature lightweight, 6-piston aluminum monoblock front calipers with 15.0 x 1.3-in. ventilated rotors and 4-piston aluminum monoblock rear calipers with 13.6 x 1.1-in. ventilated rotors. Bright orange-painted front and rear calipers emblazoned with the Lexus “F” logo are available.

Designed for Track Drivers, by Track Drivers

Lexus designed the RC F cockpit to offer generous seat position adjustment range and seats that conform to the occupants’ physiques. For design inspiration, Lexus again turned to its LFA supercar and equipped the RC F with unique gauges, steering wheel, seats, trim and pedals. The RC F’s exclusive small-diameter (14.6 inch) three-spoke steering wheel has a thick rim with built-in finger rests and provides easy access to the large paddle shifters.

Lexus designed the RC F’s high-back front seats for track driving, yet they also provide outstanding everyday comfort. Special integrated foaming construction helps the seats conform to the occupant’s body. For maximum vehicle rigidity, the RC F has a stationary rear seatback but provides a trunk pass-through for carrying longer items, such as snowboards or skis. The trunk can hold two full-sized golf bags.

 Precision Instruments for a Precision Driving Machine

The Lexus RC F revives the true meaning of “instrument panel” with a control center featuring cutting edge electronic displays. The unique TFT display tachometer, surrounded by a large-diameter machined aluminum ring, is the central gauge in the display — but it’s not always a tachometer.

The meter display changes according to driving mode (Eco, Normal/Custom, Sport S and Sport S+), designed to provide pertinent information in an instant. For example, in SPORT S+ mode, the dial indicator is replaced by a bar type tachometer, which makes engine rpm more easily visible even when the meter cannot be viewed directly. In addition to the vehicle speed and shift position, the meter display shows water and oil temperatures.

The panel offers other treats for enthusiast drivers, including a lap timer function, G-force display, torque distribution display (for cars equipped with the Torque Vectoring Differential) and active rear wing status. Additionally, this in-dash display offers multimedia integration, allowing the occupants to view incoming calls, current song titles and more at a glance.
 
Like A Smartphone: Remote Touch Interface

The Remote Touchpad uses smartphone-like touch gestures — including tap, flick and pinch — to operate audio, navigation or system information displayed on the center screen, without the user having to look down. Moving a finger over the touchpad surface moves the cursor, and pressing down or double tapping enters the selection. An integrated feedback function vibrates the surface when the cursor on the electro multi-vision navigation (EMVN) screen moves over a button.

Premium Audio: Digital “Decompression” Chamber

Both the standard and optional RC F audio systems play all popular digital formats, whether from CD, iPod^®, USB or other device. Both also integrate new audio restoration technology that was introduced in high-end home systems. The technology restores some of the clarity lost during compression for digital formats commonly used today.

The standard audio system drives its 10 speakers – including a 10-inch subwoofer—with 256 watts total output. In the RC F, the available Mark Levinson 17-speaker system creates a stunning 360-degree, three-dimensional sonic space. The system produces 835 watts total output while consuming less power than other systems of similar output. The control panel was designed to resemble the simple designs used on Mark Levinson home equipment.

 Advanced Climate Control

The Lexus RC F’s dual-zone automatic climate control system features two-layer control of internal and ambient air and upper/lower level independent air mixing, as well as independent left and right temperature control. For example, on a colder day with bright sunshine, you can set the upper air mix for cooling while at the same time have the lower air mix set for warmth.

The system includes a pollen-removal function and a clean-air filter with deodorizer. The control panel, a high-contrast negative liquid-crystal display, uses electrostatic touch switches to provide temperature control.

Lexus Enform for Safety, Convenience and Fun

The RC F is equipped with Lexus Enform Safety Connect and Enform Service Connect now complimentary for the first 10 years of ownership (previously offered for one year).

With Lexus Enform Remote (complimentary for the first year of ownership), the customer can remotely view and control certain aspects of the RC F using a mobile app for iOS and Android devices. Functions include remote door lock/unlock; remote start/stop for the engine and climate control; vehicle finder, guest driver monitor and more.

Navigation is accompanied by the Lexus Enform Dynamic Navigation with a three-year trial and    Lexus Enform App Suite 2.0 (complimentary). Use voice-enabled apps to listen to Internet radio, (including Pandora^®, iHeartRadio,  NPR One and Slacker) and search business reviews on Yelp^®.
 
Safety
Lexus  RC F has eight SRS airbags, including a dual-stage driver’s airbag, dual-stage and dual -chamber front passenger airbag, driver’s and passenger’s knee airbags, front-seat side airbags and first and second row side curtain airbags.

Lexus Safety System+ standard includes Pre-Collision System (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist, Intelligent High Beam (IHB) and High Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

What’s New for 2018

• Available navigation screen increases to 10.3” (display audio remains at 7”)
• Available exterior colors: Atomic Silver and Flare Yellow
• Lexus Safety System+ now standard
• Enform Safety Connect and Enform Service Connect both complimentary for the first 10 years of ownership  
• Enform Wi-Fi up to 4GB for one-year trial and connects up to 5 devices
• Enform App Suite 2.0
• Enform Dynamic Navigation (three-year trial)
• Scout GPS Link – Display Audio only (three-year trial)
• Dynamic Voice Recognition now available

Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance

• High-compression 5.0-liter V8 produces 467 hp and 389 lb.-ft. of torque.
• Eight-speed Sport Direct Shift (SPDS) automatic transmission with Lexus G force Artificial Intelligence Shift control (G AI-SHIFT).
• Standard Torsen^® limited-slip differential.
• Available Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD) enhances dynamic performance by precisely controlling rear wheel torque, adjusting left-right distribution in 1/1000th of a second.

 
Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes

• Adaptive Variable Suspension featuring double wishbone type front suspension and multi-link rear suspension use lightweight, high-rigidity forged aluminum control arms.
• Linear Adaptive Variable Suspension.
• Brembo brake system.
• Lightweight 19-inch forged aluminum wheels in a staggered array with 255/35R19 front tires and 275/35R19 rear tires.
• Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) with SPORT and EXPERT modes.

 
 Luxury/Comfort/Convenience

• NuLuxe interior.
• Hand-finished aluminized composite trim.
• 10-way driver’s and 8-way front passenger’s power high-back sport seats.
• Standard 12-speaker Premium Sound System.
• Enhanced Bluetooth^® capability with automatic phonebook download and streaming audio.
• Lexus Enform^® App Suite 2.0, Enform Service Connect, Enform Destination Assist and Enform Remote.
• Siri^® Eyes Free.
• HD Radio with iTunes^® Tagging and a three-month all-access trial subscription to SiriusXM^® Satellite Radio. 

Key Options
Performance Package:

• Torque Vectoring Differential.
• Carbon fiber roof.
• Carbon fiber speed-activated rear wing.
• Heated and ventilated front seats.
• Electrochromic (auto-dimming) outside mirrors with auto tilt-down in reverse.
• Rain-sensing wipers.
• Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
• Intuitive Parking Assist.
• Lexus memory system.
• Black carbon fiber interior trim.

 
Premium Package:

• Heated and ventilated front seats.
• Rain-sensing wipers with mist cycle.
• Intuitive Parking Assist.
• Electrochromic (auto-dimming) outside mirrors with auto tilt-down in reverse.
• Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
• Lexus Memory System.
• Black carbon fiber interior trim.

 
Warranty

• 48 months/50,000 miles basic limited warranty with roadside assistance for 48 months/unlimited miles.
• 72 months/70,000 miles powertrain and restraint system coverage.
• 72 months corrosion perforation protection coverage, regardless of mileage.