The New 2020 RC F is Refined, not Redesigned

2020 Lexus RC F Track Edition - front quarter view
2020 Lexus RC F Track Edition - Source: Lexus

For the this model, Lexus has focused on small incremental changes, which according to them, contribute to significant improvement of end performance.

Lexus also launched the Track Edition – the performance-optimized version of the luxury coupe. It promised reduced weight, increased aero, and insane rubber-burning abilities.

Now, as Lexus is finally letting people drive it, it’s time to see if it really has the guts of a track car.

The engine receives a tiny power boost of 5 horsepower and 6 pound-feet of torque compared to the previous version. All 2020 RC F models come with a 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 472 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque.

2020 Lexus RC F Track Edition - engine bay
2020 Lexus RC F V8 engine – Source: Lexus

The transmission is the same 8-speed AISIN automatic, sending all torque to the rear axle. In the standard RC F, you get a torque-vectoring differential, but the Track Edition comes with a Torsen.

The final drive ratio is increased from 2.97 to 3.13 – not so much to aid acceleration, instead it helped Lexus engineers remap the throttle response.

As a result, drivers can not only control the vehicle better using just the throttle, they can steer. Yes, in combination with the Torsen differential, the Track Edition RC F is more than ready to go sideways. The car will absolutely eat tires for breakfast.

2020 Lexus RC F Track Edition - rear quarter view
2020 Lexus RC F Track Edition – Source: Lexus

A new standard feature in all models is the electronic launch control. Lexus says it will reduce the car’s 0 to 60 mph acceleration to 4.2 seconds in the standard and 4.0 seconds in the Track Edition. The later has done a certified run in 3.96 seconds.

That’s not quite an LFA, but it’s also 4 times cheaper, and it’s plenty fast for the usual Lexus customers.

The standard 2020 RC F comes with a 55 lbs reduction over the previous model and Track Edtion saves an additional 121 lbs for a total of 3,781 lbs.

2020 Lexus RC F Track Edition - aerodynamics
2020 Lexus RC F Track Edition – Source: Lexus

A range of upgrades and part swaps makes that possible:

  • Carbon fiber roof, hood, front splitter, rear spoiler, diffuser, and support structures on the inside
  • Titanium muffler and connector pipes
  • Brembo carbon-ceramic rotors and calipers
  • Lightweight, forged, 19-inch BBS wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tires

It’s still a two-ton car, but the Track Edition RC F ejects an extra passenger and when you’re going for a hot lap, every little bit counts.

2020 Lexus RC F Track Edition - side view
2020 Lexus RC F Track Edition – Source: Lexus

It says Track Edition on the name, but inside the car, you’ll be treated with the same level of luxury as every other Lexus owner. Power-adjustable Alcantara seats; 10.3-inch infotainment system with Internet connectivity and even a CD-player. There are even more comfort features in the standard RC F.

Starting price of the 2020 Lexus RC F is $64,750. The Track Edition is a limited version with only 100 units planned, half of which will come to the US. A Track Edition, if you can get one, will cost you a minimum of $96,650.

2020 Lexus RC F Track Edition - interior
2020 Lexus RC F Track Edition – Source: Lexus