To celebrate the birthday, Lexus is bringing two special anniversary edition 2019 GS F and RC F models to the Chicago auto show to mark the occasion. These limited editions made their global debut at the Tokyo Motor Show.
The transformation of both cars starts with a coat of matte finish Nebula Gray paint. It’s the first use of matte paint on a production vehicle since the LFA supercar. Particular care was taken to assure that the unique finish was durable enough for the rigors of everyday use, including the ability to withstand the average mechanized car wash without degrading the quality of the finish. The dark gray finish contrasts with the standard polished black multispoke wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires. Blue brake calipers peek out from behind the 19-inch wheels to add a splash of color and hint at the changes found inside.
Open the door and you’re greeted by unique blue carbon fiber trim on the window switch panel and dashboard along with blue leather accents that give the interior the look of a custom-made exotic. It’s not an illusion either, as each car also gets engraved plaques certifying its limited-edition status. Only 240 10th anniversary RC Fs will be built, corresponding to the current number of U.S. Lexus dealers, while the 10th anniversary GS F is limited to just 100 units.
In the RC F coupe, the front sport seats get blue leather with white accents along with a blue accented shift knob, steering wheel and instrument panel hood. An embossed headliner is also part of the package to give the coupe’s interior an even more personalized appearance.
For the GS F sedan, the front seats mimic those in the RC while the rear seats also get a splash of blue leather on the side bolsters. Additional blue carbon trim is used on the center console along with blue suede dash trim and blue seatbelt straps. There is additional blue leather trim on the steering wheel, console and shift knob, although the GS F doesn’t get the same embossed headliner as the RC F.
All RC F coupes feature a 467-horsepower, 5.0-liter V8 that sends power to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s capable of going from 0-to-60 mph in 4.4 seconds. A Torsen limited slip differential is standard along with variable dampers and multiple drive modes. A torque vectoring differential is also available as an option.
The GS F sedan also comes with a 467-horsepower, 5.0-liter V8, an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear wheel drive. A torque vectoring rear differential comes standard. The GS F is capable of delivering a 0-to-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds and up to 24 mpg on the highway. Variable dampers offer a choice between a smooth highway ride or a more responsive feel for spirited driving. A range of drive modes, including a full custom setting, allows the driver to adjust multiple settings with the turn of one knob.
Additional options packages will be required on both 10th anniversary models, but final pricing has not been determined.
