Launch control for V8 RC F

Lexus has beefed up its V8 powered rear wheel drive RC F sports coupe.

Drive Start Control, also known as launch control, is now standard and delivers optimal “rapid” acceleration when the driver is using the shift lever.

The control system manages power and torque delivery from the coupe’s high-revving naturally aspirated V8 engine through its seamless eight-speed transmission, enhancing the coupe’s sublime rear-wheel-drive dynamics.

To support driving enthusiasts, the system will not engage when the car’s traction control is switched off.

A light in the instrument panel indicates when the system is operational.

RC F is powered by a smooth 5.0-litre V8 that produces 351kW at 7100 revs and 530Nm of torque between 4800 and 5600 revs, as well as a stiff chassis, torque-vectoring differential and racetrack-developed suspension and brakes.

Also new is a custom mode for its Drive Mode Select, that enables drivers to set their preferred powertrain, chassis and air conditioning settings.

Inside the 7.0 inch system screen has been replaced a larger 10.3-inch unit and the multimedia system has also been upgraded.

The Lexus Remote Touch pad is also larger, making it easier to use (yeah right).

Pedestrians and other vehicles can now be detected by the improved pre-collision safety system (LSS+).

LSS+ also incorporates simplified switchgear for the radar active cruise control and an upgraded lane departure warning function (LDW+) that now includes steering assist and steering-wheel vibration alert.

Automatic high beam is also part of the package.

The paint palette now includes Zinnia Yellow, which was introduced with the flagship LC coupe while Titanium replaces Sonic Silver.