Launched in 1989 as a luxury division of Japanese carmaker Toyota, the Lexus brand is getting ready to celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2019. But until that happens, Lexus has another event to celebrate. In 2008, the Japanese firm introduced its first F model, thus entering the performance-rated luxury market. A decade later and Lexus is throwing a party for the sub-brand with two anniversary models. One of them is the RC F 10th Anniversary Special Edition and made its debut at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show.

Much like most special-edition Lexus models, the RC F 10th Anniversary coupe isn't radically different compared to the standard model. Updates include special paint and wheels on the outside, a unique trim for the leather interior, and a few extra standard features. It also comes in limited numbers, so this coupe won't be around for a very long time. Let's find out more about it below.

Continue reading to learn more about the Lexus RC F 10th Anniversary Special Edition.

2018 Lexus RC F 10th Anniversary Special Edition

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2018 Lexus RC F 10th Anniversary Special Edition
  • Engine/Motor: V8
  • Horsepower: 467
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

What makes the Lexus RC F 10th Anniversary Edition Special?

- Special paint from the LFA supercar - Exclusive wheels - Blue brake calipers - Blue leather and accents inside - Embossed seat headrests - Engraved plaques on door panels - Blue carbon-fiber trim - Standard Torsen-limited slip differential - Standard variable dampers - Optional torque vectoring differential - Only 240 units built

This special-edition RC F isn't all that different on the outside. There aren't any aerodynamic updates, which is a bit disappointing for an anniversary model, but Lexus did use a special paint. All cars are finished in Nebula Gray, a matte paint taken from the LFA's palette. Actually, this anniversary model is the first to use this specific color since the supercar was discontinued in late 2012. And I must say it suits this beefed-up coupe very well.

The exterior is rounded off by a set of 19-inch, multi-spoke wheels wrapped in polished black paint and Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires for optimum grip. Behind them, we can see bright blue brake calipers. That's a nice touch, as it adds a splash of color to the otherwise black exterior. It also provides hints as to what's inside the cabin.

Yes, the traditional black interior of the RC F is highlighted by blue accents all over the place. There's blue carbon-fiber trim on the window switch panel and passenger-side dashboard and blue leather on the seats. The latter also features white accents for a more luxurious look. The steering wheel and gear shift knob are also wrapped in black leather and white stitching, while the former also has a white stripe at the 12'o-clock position. The dashboard hood is also covered in white leather.

The seats and headliner are embossed with the letter "F," while the engraved plaques on the doors certify the limited-edition status.

Under the hood, 10th Anniversary Edition is as standard as Lexus RC F's get, with the familiar 5.0-liter V-8 sending the usual 467 horsepower to the rear wheels. At least you get the traditional naturally aspirated engine and rear-wheel drive. An eight-speed transmission routes the oomph to the wheels, helping the coupe sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The Torsen limited-slip differential and variable dampers are standard, while the torque vectoring differential is available as an option.

Pricing information is not yet available, but Lexus says that additional options packages will be required for this model. Only 240 units will be built, corresponding to the current number of Lexus dealerships in the U.S. Expect this coupe to hit showrooms in the summer of 2018.

References

Lexus RC F

Read our full review on the 2017 Lexus RC F.

Read more Chicago Auto Show news.

Read more Lexus news.