When the Lexus “F” performance brand launched in 2008, the goal was to offer the purest expression of Lexus performance. From that point forward, every vehicle with an “F” badge would set new standards for Lexus performance and help redefine the brand for a new generation of enthusiasts. To celebrate, Lexus is offering a limited number of 10th-anniversary special editions of the 2019 Lexus GS F sedan and 2019 RC F coupe.

10th Anniversary Edition 2019 Lexus RC F

The limited edition models come standard with unique features that enhance performance. Transformation of both cars starts with a coat of matte finish Nebula Gray paint which contrasts the standard polished black multi-spoke BBS wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport PS2 tires. Blue Brembo brake calipers peek out from behind the 19-inch wheels to add a splash of color and hint at the changes found in each car.

Blue Brembo brake calipers peek out from behind BBS wheels

Inside is a 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.

10th Anniversary Edition 2019 Lexus GS F

Pure Power from Start to Finish

Few engines can match a normally-aspirated V8 when it comes to delivering seamless power from idle to redline. The 5.0-liter V8 in the GS F and RC F is engineered for low weight and high strength with forged connecting rods and titanium valves that allow a 7,300-rpm redline. Rated at 467 horsepower and 389 lb-ft of torque, it delivers a broad band of power that’s always on tap.

The high-pressure D-4S direct injection system, which also uses port fuel injectors, allows a 12.3:1 compression ratio for optimized performance and efficiency. Variable Valve Timing (VVT-iE) enables the engine to operate in the Atkinson cycle at cruising speeds, or it can switch to the Otto cycle for higher performance levels when accelerating.

All RC F coupes are 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 comes standard with a torque vectoring rear differential. 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 configurations with the turn of one knob.

GS F and RC F come with a range of drive modes

Eight Gears for Eight Cylinders

The eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission offers smooth shifts, excellent drivability, and linear acceleration. Lexus G-force Artificial Intelligence Shift control (G AI-SHIFT) is one reason why the transmission feels perfectly in tune with the driver. When driving in the SPORT S mode, the system uses the vehicle’s G-force sensor to monitor how aggressively the car is being driven and adjusts the transmission shift points accordingly. The G AI-SHIFT control further supports sporty driving by blipping the throttle on downshifts and holding gears through corners to maintain optimum control.

‘F badging’ on limited editions

The Right Mode for Every Driving Situation

Every GS F and RC F has a Drive Mode Select feature that gives the driver the ability to adjust multiple vehicle parameters. NORMAL mode provides the smoothest, most balanced ride quality and drivetrain performance. SPORT S adjusts the transmission shift points to deliver a more responsive feel and improved acceleration. The most aggressive Sport S+ mode goes one step further by changing the damper settings, steering assist, steering gear ratio and Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system for maximum performance.

The standard Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD) enhances dynamic performance by controlling torque to each rear wheel through the engagement of a multi-plate clutch.

Blue leather accents that give the interior the look of a custom-made exotic

Using a switch on the center console, the driver can select one of three distinct settings for the TVD to best suit driving style or conditions: STANDARD delivers a high level of control and agility for everyday driving. SLALOM places additional emphasis on steering response, giving the vehicle a more agile character akin to one with a smaller wheelbase while TRACK enhances handling at higher speeds.

Splash of color seen on interior seats

No matter what kind of driving you’re doing, the GS F and RC F always sounds like serious performance machines thanks to a unique exhaust system that emits a rumbling baritone note from its signature stacked exhaust pipes. There’s also an Active Sound Control (ASC) system that electronically “boosts” the sound in the cabin via the audio speakers – an optional experience that the driver can turn on or off.

For more information, see Lexus.