Lexus is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the RC F with a limited edition model debuting in Chicago.
Lexus folks like to use the word, “passion” when describing the brand these days, and they’re wont to point to new models like the LC 500 sports coupe, as well as the more aggressive styling – complete with oversized spindle grille – found on models like the latest LS sedan.
But long-time followers of the luxury brand might recall that Lexus started shifting gears a full decade ago, with the launch of the original V-8-powered IS F model. And we’re getting a first look at two special-edition anniversary models meant to celebrate the special occasion. Both, of course, carry the “F” badge that Lexus uses for its sportiest products.
“Today, Lexus adds another chapter to the ‘F’ performance story with the introduction of the 2019 Lexus GS F and 2019 RC F 10th anniversary special editions that will be displayed for the first time in the U.S. at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show,” the automaker announced, referencing the media preview that will blow into the Windy City later this week.
Only 240 copies of the 10th anniversary RC F will be built, which works out to one for every U.S. Lexus dealer. The special GS F will only see 100 produced for the American market. But some might say that if there’s any real disappointment it’s the fact that the focus is on appearance, rather than actual performance upgrades – of which there aren’t any.
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Only 240 copies of the 10th anniversary RC F will be built, which works out to one for every U.S. Lexus dealer.
Both the 2019 Lexus GS F and RC F 10th Anniversary Editions will be done up in a matte-finish that Lexus calls Nebula Gray. Significantly, only one other model has had a matte finish: the LFA supercar. The 19-inch alloy wheels, meanwhile, are finished in a gloss black and shod in Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 rubber. Their brake calipers, meanwhile, pick up on the vibrant blue hue that has become the symbol of the “F” performance line-up.
Incidentally, Lexus seems to have done its homework: matte finishes look great, at least initially, but they’re prone to being ruined rather easily. The luxury arm of Toyota says that this paint is “durable enough for the rigors of everyday use, including the ability to withstand the average mechanized car wash without degrading the quality of the finish.”
The interiors of both the GS and RC anniversary models emphasize the two hues, with brilliant blue seats getting gray accents. The shifter knobs are done up in blue suede, while window switch panels are touched with blue and silver, as well as carbon fiber detailing. The dash is blue suede and the back seats share the same coloring as those up front. Then there are the obligatory number plates to ensure you know where in the run your car was built.
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While the anniversary models don’t get any special performance upgrades, they clearly aren’t slackers. The RC F coupes are powered by a 467-horsepower, 5.0-liter V-8 powering the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic. A Torsen limited slip differential ensures maximum grip that helps the two-door launch from 0 to 60 in just 4.4 seconds.
The 10th Anniversary Lexus GS F runs 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds.
As for the GS F, it shares the same engine and transmission, but also gets a limited slip rear that adds torque vectoring for more aggressive cornering. It takes 4.5 seconds to hit 60.
Both cars feature electronically controlled variable damping and adjustable drive mode controls that adjust a variety of vehicle settings.
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Both cars will roll into U.S. Lexus showrooms, albeit in very small numbers, this summer. Pricing will be revealed closer to that launch.