Lexus RC F Track Edition Headed To Detroit With A Number Of Carbon Fiber Components

Spy photographers have caught a hardcore Lexus RC F on a number of occasions and it now appears the model will be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

While the car was originally expected to be called the RC F GT, Automotive News reports the model will actually be named the RC F Track Edition. The high-performance model will be launched in the United States this spring and Lexus’ North American vice president of marketing told the publication “It’s about adding fun driving dynamics, styling, excitement, passion, [and] emotion on to our traditional brand strengths.”

While Cooper Erickson was tight-lipped on specifics, the RC F Track Edition will follow in the footsteps of the RC F GT concept that competed at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in 2015. Previous spy photos have shown the model will be based on the facelifted RC F and feature a new front fascia with a revised grille that is flanked by restyled headlights.

The model will also have a ventilated carbon fiber hood and a carbon fiber roof. Elsewhere, designers installed new front air ducts, carbon fiber side skirt extensions and a large rear wing. Other notable features include lightweight alloy wheels, a new rear bumper and a sporty diffuser which resides between a four-tailpipe exhaust system.

The changes aren’t just for styling’s sake as the carbon fiber components should help to reduce weight. There’s no word on how much mass will be cut, but the RC F GT weighed 800 lbs (362 kg) less than the standard model.

Since the RC F Track Edition echoes the RC F GT, the car could be equipped with a high-performance exhaust as well as improved cooling and lubrication systems. These modifications enabled the concept’s 5.0-liter V8 engine to produce more than 467 hp (348 kW / 473 PS) and 389 lb-ft (528 Nm) of torque.

Update: Lexus has confirmed the 2020 Lexus RC F Track Edition will debut at the North American International Auto Show on January 14th. The company also released a teaser image showing the car’s carbon fiber rear wing.