The high-performance Lexus RC F and RC F Track Edition models have quietly arrived in South Africa … and we have local pricing.
The RC F is priced from R1 318 300, while the limited-production RC F Track Edition starts at R2 098 200. A seven-year/105 000 km warranty and a maintenance plan of the same length are included as standard.
Both variants were revealed at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January 2019 as part of the facelifted RC coupé range. They effectively find themselves competing with the likes of the BMW M4, Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupé and the Audi RS5 Coupé.
As a reminder, power comes from a naturally aspirated 5,0-litre V8, which (in SA-spec guise) now sends 351 kW and 530 N.m to the rear axle via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Interestingly, the latter gains a higher final drive ratio to improve off-the-line response.
In addition, the RC F now includes electronic launch control as standard. According to Lexus, the SA-spec RC F Track Edition will hit 100 km/h from standstill in 4,3 seconds, before topping out at 270 km/h.
So, what do you score for the R779 900 premium the Track Edition commands over the standard RC F? Well, this limited model gains a unique air dam (fashioned from carbon-fibre) to increase front-end downforce and a fixed rear wing to replace the active spoiler employed by the standard model.
Lexus claims the Track Edition is up to 82 kg lighter than the standard model. Furthermore, the special model gains Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes framed by lightweight 19-inch BBS forged alloy wheels.
The roof and bonnet, meanwhile, are fashioned from carbon-fibre, as is the partition behind the rear seats and the bumper reinforcement. A titanium exhaust system and tailpipes are also included, saving further weight and lending the Track Edition what Lexus describes as “a unique sound”.
Inside, the Track Edition features Alcantara accents on the seats and items such as a Mark Levinson sound system.
