IMPROVED performance and revised styling define the 2020 Lexus RC F sport coupe, which marked its arrival in the Philippines via a Sunday morning presentation at the Lexus Manila showroom in Bonifacio Global City.
Lexus Manila president Raymond Rodriguez said the RC F was conceived as a “next-generation expression of the Lexus ‘F’ values.” He explained the brand’s “F” philosophy takes its name from Fuji Speedway, where the Lexus F high-performance division was founded and where it tests the F cars.
Changes to the car’s styling include headlights which now feature stacked LEDs and integrated daytime running lights; a reshaped grille that sports an opening spanning its lower lip; and new taillights that integrate into the revised bumper. The updated styling is subtle, but gives the RC F a cleaner, more chiseled look.
Paintjobs available to the RC F are Radiant Red Contrast Layering, Heat Blue Contrast Layering, White Nova Glass Flake, Sonic Titanium, Graphite Black Glass Flake and Naples Yellow Contrast Layering. The semi-aniline leather lining the RC F’s cabin comes in Flare Red, white or black.
Performance upgrades focus on weight reduction, but which Lexus said do not compromise the RC F’s refinement and solid construction. Hollow half shafts at the rear replace solid shafts while a pared down intake manifold and a smaller air-conditioning compressor lessen weight at the front of the car. The switch to aluminum toe control and upper suspension support brackets also reduces weight.
Further refining the feel of the RC F are stiffer bushings for the rear suspension arms and steering rack mounts. More rigid engine mounts have also been used to better transmit the power of the RC F’s normally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 to the rear wheels.
The RC F’s engine now makes 471hp — a 5hp increase — and 530Nm because of revised intake routing and lower rpm trigger point for the secondary intake opening. The eight-speed automatic transmission that bolts to the engine now has a higher final drive ratio.
New to the RC F is an electronic launch control. Operated via a button on the console, the system automatically adjusts the car’s traction and throttle control for maximum acceleration from a stop. The driver simply has to step on the brake pedal, switch on the launch control, floor the accelerator, then release the brake.
Matching the performance upgrades are new Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires designed specifically for the RC F. Compared to the standard Michelin specifications, the tires on the RC F’s has a unique profile, tread pattern and rubber compound. Lexus said the changes intend to reduce understeer, improve overall lateral grip and increase durability under extreme conditions.
Lexus Manila sells the 2020 RC F for P5.928 million.
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