If details on the new high-performance coupe from Lexus, RC F, weren’t enough to get pulses racing, then take a look at what’s under the hood.
Powering the vehicle is the most powerful V8 engine that Lexus has ever produced for a road-going car, which comprises detailed design and engineering that promises an exhilarating experience as soon as the driver driver puts their foot down on the accelerator.
On top of being powerful, the engine is smooth and responsive. It can also swap between different operating cycles depending on the conditions it faces, which means it can be very efficient.
It uses the Atkinson cycle when it is operating at cruising speeds and can change to the Otto cycle for higher performance driving.
The engine is a 4,969 cc 32-valve unit that was developed based on the engine used in the previous IS F model. However, it has undergone a lot of changes that improve on performance and driveability.
Power to the new V8 has increased by 12 per cent compared to the previous model to 471 bhp and the rev limit is up from 6,800 to 7,300 rpm.
On top of the influenced from the IS F, there is also inspiration taken from the V10 that was used in the LFA. This shows through with the torque that the V8 produces, of which the delivery is instantaneous and palpable.
It has a 12.3:1 compression ratio that raises the level of torque across the whole rev range. Maximum output rises to 530 Nm, which can be achieved between 4,800 and 5,600 rpm.
In spite of the inspiration derived from other models, a lot of components in the engine are new. These include intake, throttle body, cylinder heard, the D-4S injection system, pistons, connecting rod, crankshaft and VVT-i valve timing.
The question is, just how fast can it go? Maximum speed is limited electronically to 168 mph and the car can go from 0 to 62 mph in 4.5 seconds. It can sprint 400m from standstill in 12.5 seconds. Meanwhile, the car promises to provide excellent grip, handling and involvement.
It uses the VVT-iE electric motor-driven intelligent variable valve timing that Lexus has designed, which is utilised in conjunction with a new intake camshaft profile to increase valve lift.
The engine is also attached to the latest development of the eight-speed Sports Direct Shift transmission from Lexus.
It’s no secret that many petrolheads love a car that sounds good and part of the Lexus F philosophy is to create excitement through sound. As such, the RC F has an Active Sound Control system that can bring the noise of enhanced exhaust, intake and mechanical sounds into the cabin.
Designers chose to add this feature because they wanted to include the aural experience that is part of the LFA, which has been applauded for its intake and exhaust noises.
With prices starting at £59.995, the RC F is now available to order and first customer deliveries are scheduled for February.
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