It comes as no surprise that V-8 sports cars are no longer a priority for auto manufacturers. Many have poured their time and research into creating powerful forced induction four-bangers to frontline their efforts against competitors. A case can be made to this effect with the new 2024 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG which is now powered by a turbocharged inline-four engine. However, there is still hope for the big thumping V-8 sports car segment, oddly enough the Japanese manufacturer Lexus sets a great example with the RC-F.

The Lexus RC-F is a true gem sports car that definitely should be on your radar. Dating back to 2014, the Lexus RC line has had a progressive development pathway with options to suit all types of buyers culminating with the top of the line GT3 inspired RC-F that get all the bells and whistles but most importantly a beastly 5.0 liter 472 horsepower naturally aspirated V-8 engine. With that being said, let's delve into the RC-F and explore what makes it so great.

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Built On The Success of Its Predecessor: Lexus IS-F

Every success story rests on the fundamentals of a great plan, for Lexus the blueprint for the development of the RC-F was laid by the IS-F sedan introduced in 2007 to rival the BMW E92 M3. The Lexus IS-F showcased the Japanese luxury brand's ability to build something much more than a plush four-door sedan. Prepped with a violent 5.0 liter V-8 pushing an impressive 416 horsepower and 371-pound feet of torque, the IS-F punched way above its weight at the time taking on the astonishing C63 AMG and BMW M3.

A small team led by Lexus engineer Yukihiko Yaguchi used the IS-F as a test subject for their future sports car development which undoubtedly paid off with the creation of the Lexus LF-A supercar and today's example the RC-F. In short, it would be an injustice to celebrate all that makes the 2023 Lexus RC-F without paying homage to the vehicle that paved the way. With a lineage successfully established, let's crack on and explore why the 2023 Lexus RC-F is a hidden gem in the V-8 sports car segment.

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A Showcase of Great Engineering: Naturally Aspirated V-8 Soundtrack

Lexus's parent company Toyota, has a sterling reputation for crafting exceptional, dependable, and robust engines, as exemplified by the legendary 2JZ six-cylinder powerhouse that drove the iconic Mk4 (A80) Toyota Supra. This engineering prowess is once again on full display at the heart of the new RC-F. Internally codenamed 2UR-GSE, the distinctive 5.0-liter V-8 engine is a reworked version of the engine fitted to the inaugural IS-F now outputting 472 horsepower and a substantial 395 pound-feet of torque.

The 2023 Lexus RC-F comes in two variations, the standard RC-F and a Track Edition. Both editions share the same 32-valve DOHC engine mated to an eight-speed Sport Direct-Shift automatic transmission that gets the power down to the rear wheels. The standard RC-F hits 0-60mph in 4.2 seconds while the Track Edition does the sprint in 4.0 seconds. For a real racecar feel, the RC-F transmission integrates a downshift rev-matching feature, keeping engine rpm in the power band during shift via the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for split-second upshifts to its 168-mph top track speed.

Stopping power is provided by 14.9-inch six-piston carbon ceramic brakes from Brembo. Lexus has designed specialized ducting to channel air from the front grille to cool the six-piston caliper brakes, this reduces brake fade, ensuring that even under intense driving conditions or high-speed track sessions, the RC-F Track Edition maintains exceptional braking performance and inspires confidence in drivers at an equally exceptional price.

2023 Lexus RC-F Engine Specification

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Technology-Packed LFA-Inspired Design Inside Out

The Japanese luxury brand's first supercar the Lexus LFA set a precedent for the automaker's designs, many models have been strongly influenced by the exterior and interior design of the superb LFA including the RC-F. The low-slopping hood and sharp front fascia are reminiscent of the LFA design along with the front side opening designed to feed the massive six-piston carbon ceramic brakes. The new Lexus design language is either a hit or miss, but either way, the RC-F can hardly be called ugly.

The interior features two-tone leather with contrasting stitching for a luxurious ambiance. An LFA-inspired digital instrument cluster ensures that the driver has an immersive experience and is informed of all important engine parameters. The updated interior's 10.3-inch infotainment system is packed full of modern tech such as Andriod Auto and Apple Carplay.

If the standard RC-F doesn't align with your preferences, Lexus offers a range of packages designed to cater to your needs, enhancing both the vehicle's aesthetics and technological features. These packages, which include options like parking assistance, heated and ventilated seats, and a rear seat center console, come at an additional cost, of course.

Among these packages, the carbon trim package stands out as an excellent value proposition, as it introduces striking carbon fixtures both inside and outside. While it comes with a price tag of $17,775, it offers a substantial array of features and enhancements including:

• Black Carbon fiber interior trim
• Carbon fiber roof, front spoiler, rocker-panel splitters, rear diffuser, and speed-activated rear wing
• 19-inch Gloss Black split-10-spoke forged BBS alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sports 4S tires.
• Heated steering wheel
• Intuitive Parking Assist
• Leather-trimmed interior
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Power tilt-and-telescopic steering column
• Rear-seat center console with cup-holders and center armrest with trunk pass-through

2023 RC-F Packages And Pricing

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Summing Up The Lexus RC-F

With a starting MSRP of $68,195, the 2023 Lexus RC-F often finds itself in an oddly overlooked position when compared to its rivals, notably the BMW M4 and the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. While it may not necessarily claim the title of being the most track-oriented or budget-friendly option in its class, it possesses a distinctive quality that sets it apart – that's the mesmerizing naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V-8 masterpiece of an engine.

The 2023 Lexus RC-F may not fit the conventional mold of a high-performance sports coupe, but that's precisely what makes it so special. To add to this, the vehicle stands a high chance of maintaining its value more than other cars in its segment. If you are in the market for a V-8 sports car with a healthy budget, the RC-F is an option worth exploring.