OREANDA-NEWS. September 10, 2014. Low. Long. Sleek. With a growling exhaust note and a searing red paint job that could have come from a concept car. Fast. Agile. Daring.

The luxury-sport coupe category is about to get a lot hotter. The 2015 Lexus RC 350 arrives this fall, melding audacious design and high performance like no Lexus before. Engineered as a stand-alone model, rather than as a two-door derivative of a sedan, the RC delivers all the performance, individuality, and unique luxury and technology that its body promises. Lexus expects the RC to attract the next generation of luxury buyers and those new to the brand.

While the RC 350 swaggers with a striking exterior, it features efficiency under the hood.  A standard 306 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 teamed to an eight-speed Sports Program Direct Shift (SPDS) transmission for rear-wheel drive models helps provide smooth acceleration, predictable torque and good fuel economy.

A key to the RC’s exceptional handling ability is a new ultra-stiff platform. The RC is the latest model from a ride and handling transformation at Lexus that started with the current GS midsize luxury sedan and progressed with the new-generation IS sport sedan. Following the stunning, limited-production LFA supercar, those latest Lexus models and the new RC are taking the brand in a more emotional design/performance direction.

From launch, Lexus will offer the new RC 350 in both rear-wheel drive and with all-weather drive, the latter using a six-speed automatic transmission, and an F SPORT version. Distinguished by exclusive exterior design and interior features, the F SPORT will also raise the performance ante with standard Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system and the available Lexus Dynamic Handling system, which includes rear-wheel steering.

The driving environment is no less exciting than the dramatic body enveloping it. Infused with a strong sports car aesthetic and pure Lexus luxury, the RC cabin also reflects a strong influence from the Lexus LFA supercar.
          
Beneath its alluring lines, the RC introduces several Lexus firsts in technology and production engineering developments. For example, the signature paint color, Infrared, introduces a new paint technique that was pioneered on concept vehicles. Called contrast layering, it is a Lexus first for mass production.
 
Unique Platform
The Lexus RC’s chassis is unique, although it does draw from the architecture of other Lexus vehicles. The front end is based on the highly acclaimed Lexus GS, which set new standards for stiffness and chassis response in a mid-sized sedan.
     
The rear of the RC platform is based on the new-generation IS sport sedan, a car that has already proven its performance and handling mettle in a hotly contested segment.  In the center, where the structure needed to maintain rigidity with two large door openings, Lexus borrowed from the IS convertible structure.
          
None of those three portions was directly taken from the other cars. Rather, each contributed more than the sum of its parts to the overall chassis package. Lexus fine-tuned the resulting platform to provide the specific high-performance character sought for its new coupe.
 
High Rigidity Body
To create the best-handling regular production Lexus yet, Lexus started with the handling stars of its current line, adapting portions of their platforms to create an exceptionally rigid foundation for the RC. The front suspension area is based on GS, with increased apron panel thickness. The center floor section, based on the Lexus IS C, has an enlarged rocker cross section – nearly double that of IS sedan -- to help provide exceptional control. The rear floor is based on the new-generation IS sport sedan, with added center-floor reinforcements.

As it did with the IS, Lexus applied new manufacturing techniques to yield a rigid body structure. Laser screw welding, additional spot welding and special body adhesives all do their part to help give the RC a strong body. High-rigidity structural adhesive is used to help secure the windshield and backlight.

Under-floor braces added to the radiator support and number-two crossmember, along with a front A-brace, tunnel brace and trapezoidal rear brace, all help contribute to rigidity.
          
The driver will feel the net result of all those construction features when aiming the RC into a corner and then feeling its impeccable blend of crisp turn-in response and utter poise through the curve. And if there happens to be a small bump in the curve, all the better to show off how the RC’s stiff platform and finely tuned suspension work together to help the driver keep the car composed.
 
Powertrain: A V6 That’s a Perfect 10

Lexus chose a naturally aspirated V6 for its instantaneous response and performance-driving character. It also sounds like a proper GT car, with a distinct but refined growl under acceleration and a pleasingly present but quiet demeanor when cruising. An intake sound generator further enhances sonic appeal under acceleration. The overall effect is memorable, but never abrasive, and doesn’t intrude on conversation or music enjoyment.
          
The 3.5-liter Lexus 2GR-FSE V6 propels the 2015 RC 350 with 306 horsepower and 277 lb.-ft. of torque. An aluminum block and heads keep weight in check. Key technologies that get credit for the broad torque curve and quick response include intelligent dual variable valve timing (VVT-i) and the Lexus D-4S system of direct and port fuel injection. With one injector installed in the combustion chamber and a second mounted in the intake port, D-4S combines the strengths of both for maximum efficiency and low emissions.
 
Dance Partner: Eight-Speed SPDS Transmission

Eight is enough. That’s certainly true of transmissions for high-performance cars. But what’s the best way to control the gears for the ideal performance experience?
          
The 2015 Lexus RC 350 answers with one of the most acclaimed transmissions in use today, the eight-speed Sports Program Direct Shift (SPDS) transmission. This transmission debuted in the esteemed IS F high-performance sedan. The SPDS transmission combines the best of both worlds: torque converter smoothness with shifting speed of a dual-clutch unit when shifting manually. A long-travel damper for the lock-up torque converter boosts fuel economy and ensures smooth, quiet lock-up.
          
The SPDS transmission has three driver-selectable modes – NORMAL, SPORT and MANUAL (M), which have full torque-converter lock-up from second to eighth gears for “clutchless” manual shifting. Downshifts are made in just 0.10-second in M mode, with the transmission’s throttle blipping control matching the engine speed to the gear. The transmission’s shift control has been further developed to respond precisely to slight changes in accelerator-pedal operation for an even more dynamic and inspiring driving feel.
          
The eight ratios have been chosen to balance the needs of performance driving and fuel efficiency. Compared to the Lexus six-speed automatic transmission, first gear is 8.5 percent shorter and top gear is 2.9 percent taller.
          
The transmission SPORT mode includes G-sensor AI-Shift control, which uses information from the G-sensor on driving status to provide the optimal gear ratio for sporty driving. In SPORT mode, the transmission offers more dynamic acceleration control for a more sporting driving experience. The transmission will automatically downshift during hard braking for a corner, hold a lower gear through the corner for greater control, and then give the driver a greater power response on corner exit by selecting a suitable low gear.
          
NORMAL mode provides fuel economy and seamless acceleration traditionally associated with Lexus electronically controlled transmissions. It uses all eight gears for optimum fuel economy, while coordinating control with the throttle to provide smooth acceleration and minimal feeling of gear changes.

Drive Mode Select: Have It Your Way
The Lexus RC listens to the driver through the Drive Mode Select system. Using a dial on the console, the driver can literally “dial in” the performance response and feel desired from the car. Drive Mode Select tailors the vehicle’s powertrain, electric power-assisted steering assist curve, air conditioning and, on F SPORT, suspension response. Modes include NORMAL, SPORT S and ECO in the RC 350. The F SPORT adds SPORT S+ mode for maximum handling performance from AVS suspension and the available Dynamic Handling System.
 
Amazing Suspension, No Disbelief

The RC likewise draws its suspension design, though not the individual parts, from the GS architecture. The front suspension is double wishbone, and the rear suspension is multi-link with a toe control arm. Monotube dampers offer ideal damping and control for a high-performance car.
          
Because the RC is much stiffer than the vehicles that have contributed platform technology, Lexus was able to employ much higher damping forces and use larger diameter stabilizer bars front and rear, all without adversely affecting ride comfort.
          
Most of the suspension components are new. At the front, the RC gets a new suspension upper support, coil spring, damper, stabilizer bar, stabilizer bar bushing and lower number two bushing.  The rear coil springs, dampers, stabilizer bar, and stabilizer bushings all are new for the RC.
          
RC 350 F SPORT takes handling acumen to a higher level with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system and the Lexus Dynamic Handling system with Dynamic Rear Wheel Steering.
 
Driving Dynamics

Driving connoisseurs well know that maximum agility demands rear-wheel drive (RWD), or an all-wheel drive system (AWD) that’s biased for rear-wheel handling characteristics. The Lexus RC 350, in RWD or AWD form, delivers on that promise.
          
RC 350 chassis engineers aimed for exceptional steering response and smooth roll transfer during initial turn-in; minimal roll and rapid yaw-rate gain for agile turning mid-corner, and smooth steering feel with smooth body movement from corner to corner.
 
Aerodynamic Grip

The Lexus RC’s aerodynamic performance leverages the flow of air over and under the car to help optimize controllability, especially when traveling at high speeds. Aerodynamic handling stability features begin of course with the overall body shape that minimizes drag, for enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced noise. The rear quarter panels are designed to smooth the airflow around the vehicle.
          
Aero-stabilizing fins and a flat under-body design are among the myriad details that ensure the RC slips through the air as efficiently as possible. The aero fins are strategically placed in key areas of the underbody, and there is also an aero-stabilizing guide behind the front bumper to suppress vortex formation and increase radiator efficiency. Stabilizing fins are also fitted to the tip of the doorframe molding and the rear lights.
          
Ducts in the front bumper enhance aerodynamic and brake-cooling performance. Even the shark-fin style radio antenna plays a role in aerodynamic performance while also delivering high reception sensitivity. The sharp cutoff at the trunk edge helps to smooth airflow from the roof. Rear under-floor aero devices to help create negative lift, and the angle of the rear under cover has been raised, for optimum aerodynamic effect.
          
No surface went unconsidered. Front and rear wheel spats reduce airflow hitting the tires.
Front fender liners have an aero-groove shape to help direct airflow along the tires, in the same direction as the wheel rotation. The rear fender liners have a bead to direct tire-generated airflow to the outside of the vehicle. Door parting line gaps were reduced to 3.8 mm to both enhance appearance and reduce wind noise. Finally, the roof panel is brazed directly to the side members, eliminating the need for a roof drip molding.

Electric Steering, Electrifying Handling
The electric power steering (EPS) provides a natural, form feel with good feedback thanks to rigid mounting hardware. A new, high-rigidity gear-mounting bushing for the steering rack is one of the numerous details that contribute to the RC’s sports car-like steering.
          
Exclusively for RC 350 F SPORT, the available Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) automatically changes the steering gear ratio in response to vehicle speed and driving conditions. To reduce the steering angle when turning the steering wheel at extremely low speeds or when performing a U-turn, VGRS decreases the number of turns of lock to lock.
          
In urban areas, on mountain roads, and other situations when the steering wheel is frequently operated at low to mid speeds, an optimum ratio is selected to provide light, easy-to-handle vehicle responsiveness.