New Lexus RC F Track Edition: the most radical and lightweight version of the Japanese sports car is here

As we revealed a few days ago, Lexus was about to unveil the most radical version of one of its signature sports cars, the RC F. This model keeps alive a breed of sports cars that is in danger of dying out, in which large-displacement naturally aspirated engines are their main appeal. However, the most irreverent Japanese brand ever has decided to season that charismatic formula with the Track Edition name; a name that not only brings out a more radical side of the RC F, but also throws down a battle cry to the other sports cars on the market that have already succumbed to turbocharging.

On this occasion, Lexus has opted for significant improvements in both styling and performance, aiming to offer a much more effective vehicle on the tarmac. However, these changes do not alter the charismatic essence of the RC F, a model that has managed to stay clear of passing trends and show a strong personality throughout its commercial life.

A much more imposing and aggressive look

Lexus had already teased the Track Edition variant with several previews, hinting that it would feature certain exclusive details, and now we can see them clearly. At first glance we find an imposing open front grille without add-ons that is dominated by the Japanese brand’s emblem.

A sharp splitter finished in carbon fibre aims to blend perfectly with the bulging bonnet made from the same material. The side of the Lexus RC F Track Edition features a significant widening of the wheel arches, showing a greater road presence. Before the rear, we find the roof, also made of carbon fibre, a clear hint of the intentions behind this more radical variant of the RC F.

The rear of the Lexus sports car is the part responsible for conveying the character of the Track Edition with greater force. This area is dominated by a gigantic spoiler, also built from carbon fibre like the diffuser, which is now flanked by a quad exhaust outlet finished in titanium, with the aim of taking part in the Track Edition’s diet.

At the same time, the company will let customers choose between two exclusive colours: Ultra White and Nebula Matte Gray. These will be complemented by an interior trimmed in red leather and numerous details in red carbon fibre and Alcantara, two materials that bring out the sportier character of the Track Edition.

Less weight, more power and better aerodynamics

Lexus has applied to the new RC F Track Edition that formula which has no flaws when it comes to a sports car: less weight, more power and better aerodynamics. These three characteristics have allowed this new variant of the Japanese sports car to offer more agile and dynamic handling, designed to tackle with precision every single bend the circuits throw up.

The brand’s engineers have continued to rely on the same 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 to bring the Track Edition to life, except that on this occasion it produces 457 CV of power and 520 Nm of torque at 4,800 rpm. This increase in performance is offset by aerodynamic improvements, which translate into up to 26 kilos of additional downforce generated by the spoiler and a new angle of attack.

The weight reduction, thanks to the countless carbon fibre-finished components, the new Brembo brakes and the 19-inch BBS forged wheels, shows on the scales at between 70 and 80 kg less than the standard model. This is also possible because the brake discs, calipers and wheels alone already account for a 25 kg reduction.

A limited edition of unknown price

Production of the new RC F Track Edition will begin in March 2019, an exclusive model suitable only for the brand’s most loyal customers. For now the Japanese company has kept a significant mystery around its new radical offspring, as we know neither its price nor its performance.

This is how Lexus intends to go head-to-head with vehicles in the same segment but with similar tuning. The Japanese brand will likely use its appearance at the Geneva Motor Show to unveil the new RC F Track Edition exclusively, a model that arrives with plenty of attitude and ambition to become the new king of the Nürburgring.