A Club Lexus Exclusive! More details on the upcoming ‘F’ lineup from Lexus including the RX-F
April, 1 2007 – Torrance, CA – Following closely on the heels of the release of the IS-F, our CL insiders have learned of a Lexus plan to release “F” models associated with several other Lexus vehicles including the GS, SC and suprisingly the RX. All will have engine variants of the 5.0-liter direct-injected V8 featured in the IS-F. The second “F” model to hit the streets is reported by our sources to be the RX-F in Spring 2008.
The most important new feature of the RX-F is the advanced AWD drivetrain which will put power to the pavement via an eight-speed direct sport-shift transmission with paddle shifters. The AWD is expected to nearly eliminate traction issues and Lexus expects the vehicle to accelerate to 60mph in under 4.5 seconds, making it (for now) the fastest production Lexus ever. The AWD is rumored to be offered in the second year IS-F coupled only with a manual 6-speed transmission option.
The curb weight of the RX-F has been reduced to 3460 lbs (down from the 4,090 of the current RX350) by implementation of carbon fiber body panels in certain areas, lightweight BBS alloy wheels and Recaro brand lightweight sport seats front and rear with five point harness capability, with a third row of optional smaller Recaro seats in the rear.
Our sources at Lexus who asked to remain anonymous said the RX-F will revolutionize the way people view Lexus vehicles on the street. "The styling cues are planned to be very subtle on the RX-F, unless you know what to look for you will never know what blew your doors off" he said with a chuckle adding "Who said soccer moms couldn’t have balls".
The RX-F will compete directly with the Mercedes Benz ML-63 AMG (503 HP 464 lbs tq) and the BMW X5 4.8 (350 HP, 350 lbs tq).
This article copyright © April 1, 2007 Club Lexus, reproduction only with permission
"The answer is "YES, you were pranked" to all those who have asked. APRIL FOOLS and a safe spring season from Club Lexus!!!"
