Tokyo show: Special Lexus RC F, GS F bound for Oz

LEXUS has confirmed that a limited-edition version of its high-performance RC F coupe and GS F sedan will be available in Australia next year to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Japanese luxury brand’s ‘F’ sports division.

Unveiled at the Tokyo motor show this week, the special editions – which are expected to arrive here in the second half of 2018 – carry higher-performance front shock absorbers designed to improve body rigidity and steering stability, plus a lightweight titanium muffler.

Carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) is used in various (still-to-be-specified) exterior components, while body panels are finished in matte grey.

Inside, the cabin is decked out in a unique ‘heat blue’ colour.

Lexus Australia has advised that the local allocation of the special-edition models is still to be confirmed, but it is bound to be small.

In Japan, Lexus plans to sell 50 units each of the anniversary RC F and GS F.

As per the regular models, both editions are powered by a 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine that produces 351kW of power at 7100rpm and 530Nm of torque from 4800-5600rpm, driving the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic and reaching 100km/h from standstill in either 4.5 seconds (RC F) or 4.6s (GS F).

The regular RC F is priced from $137,951, while the GS F starts at $153,251.

Expect the special editions to add around $20,000 to the bottom line.

“These two special versions of our acclaimed RC F coupe and GS F sedan will heighten the performance aura around the Lexus brand with their unique styling, performance features and exclusivity,” said Lexus Australia chief executive Peter McGregor.