Lexus has introduced the RC 350 F-Sport to the South African market. This sporty coupe was developed new from the ground up to offer a dynamic driving experience with a solid dose of aggressive styling that aims to appeal to a younger market. In South Africa, the RC 350 F-Sport will be joined by the RC 200t in coming months and Lexus says the fire-breathing RC F5.0-litre V8 won’t be available, yet.

“Our iconic LFA supercar embodied Lexus’ passion and acted as an emotional drawcard, and as such, it was one of the most important models we’ve ever produced. However, it was off limits to most buyers. This new model brings a portion of the LFA’s excitement to a more attainable market segment, and it will boost the brand’s appeal even further. I’m confident it will resonate with a select set of discerning South African customers,” said Glenn Crompton,Vice President of Marketing for Lexus.

Striking Looks

With a wheelbase of 2 730mm, overall length of 4 695mm and height of 1 395mm, the RC 350 F-Sport’s intentions are clear. The front-end features a wide and low spindle grille with L-mesh finish which is flanked by wide corner bumpers and flares. Bold lines dominate and the rear features a similar shape to that of the grille. The RC 350 is fitted with dual multi-LED headlamps, tail lamps, fog lamps and L-shaped LED daytime running lights. Exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels with overlaid 10-spoke sets are fitted to the RC 350 F-Sport to round off its menacing appearance.

In terms of the chassis, Lexus has drawn from its past successes and the front-end is based on the GS model, the centre based on the IS C and the rear inspired by the IS. All these traits culminate in a rigid chassis that can support the “sporty yet supple” suspension. The RC 350 F-Sport is fitted with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) that electronically controls and adapts the suspension to suit the driving conditions. The vehicle also adopts the Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH) system which incorporateselectric power-assisted rack and pinion steering (EPS),Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) andDynamic Rear Steering (DRS) to enhance driving and handling dynamics.

Under the Bonnet

The Lexus RC 350 F-Sport is fitted with a 3.5-litre V6 engine that develops 233 kW and 378 Nm of torque. The result is a 0-100kph sprint time of 6.3 seconds before reaching a maximum top speed of 230kph using an 8-speed automatic transmission with M mode. The transmission is also linked to the Lexus Drive Mode Select function which offers modes such as ECO, NORMAL, SPORT and SPORT S+.

Fuel consumption is rated at 9.4L/100km with CO2 emissions at 217g/km.

Step Inside

The RC 350 F-Sport interior combines soft-touch materials with metallic accents throughout. The leather-upholstered seats feature a long cushion length and lumbar support. The rear seats feature a walk-in function where the front seat slides forward automatically when the front seat is folded forward, allowing rear passengers to climb in easily. Customers can choose between Dark Rose or Black leather for the upholstery.

In terms of technology, the RC 350 F-Sport features a configurable 8-inch TFT LCD display inspired by the LFA supercar. There’s also a 7-inch multi-vision navigation display which is centrally mounted in the dashboard and functions using the new Lexus Remote Touch (LRT) Interface. A 10-speaker, 256-watt Pioneer sound system is fitted as standard.

Safety Features

The RC 350 F-Sport comes fitted with eight airbags and ISOFIX child seat mounts. Active safety features include ABS with EBD and Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control, traction control and Hill-Start Assist. Lane Departure Alert and Auto High Beam is also standard.

Lexus RC 350 F-Sport Price in South Africa

Lexus RC 350 F-Sport – R730 900

The RC 350 F Sport comes standard with a 4-year / 100000km Lexus Distance Plan, full maintenance plan and a 4-year / 100000km warranty.