Lexus RC F Fuji Speedway Edition is the Ultimate F (Fridays are for F Presented by Continental ExtremeContact DWS^{06 Plus})

Oh yeah–it’s got the looks, but the RC F Fuji Speedway is more than an appearance package. 

At first glance, it may seem that the Lexus RC F Fuji Speedway special edition is just a track-oriented option. Although that is not the case, it is easy to make that assumption. Lexus added style and design that is steeped in racing roots, and warrants the F Performance badge. But there is much more history and importance to this designation. The RC F Fuji Speedway Lexus is making a return for 2022. And this is definitely a racy, driven Lexus that will hit the sweet spot for many enthusiasts; Lexus balancing raw and refined.

This week’s Fridays Are For F is all about the Lexus Fuji Speedway special edition. It is a GTS-inspired Lexus with optimal power-to-weight ratio, impactful aero and track components, and the brute force of a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 with 472 horses on tap.

Lexus first introduced the special edition at the end of 2020 for the upcoming 2021 model year of the RC F. Tuned and prepped for the challenge of the track, it was called the “Ultimate F.” Adding the limited-edition to its lineup, Lexus offers RC F enthusiasts a new way to appreciate the performance.

To move forward, the F marque would first paying homage to the storied track where it all began. Named after the world-renowned “Temple of Speed” in the foothills of Mount Fuji—the birthplace of Lexus high-performance—this unique edition embodies decades of development on this iconic track; the ultimate Lexus proving grounds.

As a performance coupe, the RC F special edition has a number of upgrades that raise performance to a new level. One reason why the Lexus RC F Fuji Speedway has such agility is the additional weight reduction. Brembo Carbon Ceramic brakes, titanium exhaust, and an extensive use of carbon fiber aerodynamics all work together in harmony to bring a fast and dynamic sporty ride.

And while it looks super sleek, this is RC F Fuji Speedway Edition, not an appearance package. The track-ready–but road-legal–RC F is faster, sportier, and more focused. To wit, it takes only 3.96 seconds to go zero to 60 mph from a standstill.

Only 60 2021 RC F Fuji models were produced. And 2022 will continue the limited-edition RC F with 50 models.

Engineers worked with the Lexus RC F GT3 racing team to develop an aerodynamics strategy to increase downforce and allow a lot of grip and control through every turn. Details needed to be addressed, for example, the airflow inside the wheel wells needed to be considered. Air exits through the fenders allow the suspension to perform without any disruptive air pressure.

This improves and enhances handling and stability. And the traction is tasty.

Standing apart from the RC, the F Fuji Speedway has a strong, determined stance that drips with attitude and aptitude.

Using Triple-Beam LED for the head and taillights is not only sharp, but smart. And the cabin lacks no sense of identity, it is a sporty, racy, tough ride inside and out.

And the black and blue Alcantara-trimmed seats, Alcantara accents on the shift knob and steering wheel, blue carbon fiber ornamentation really makes the cabin special. F logo badging adds a bold touch to this limited-edition Lexus.

Of course, some writers and reviewers feel that the RC F could use a more fierce engine; if for no other reason than to justify the price tag … a whopping $98K. But does it really need more?

With 472 horsepower at 7,100 rpm and 395 pound-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm, the numbers are respectable but not overwhelming. But that is the bottom line. At the end of the day, this is a Lexus. Yes, it is a sexy Lexus with a screaming exhaust note that will make your heartbeat double time.

But it balances the power with Lexus refinement. We’d love to see how they might tune an RC F to really and crank out serious horses. But as is, the Lexus is a dream–a ride that is pure pleasure, kicked up to jolt the adrenaline. It roars, it blazes, but remains responsive to the driver. Pure Lexus with a sharp edge honed on the track.

Is it for everyone? Well no. It is ultra-rare, only 50 will be produced for 2022. But is it a powerful step in challenging what the F Performance marque can be? Definitely.

Not an LFA, but a passionate and delicious ride that stays true to the F Performance legacy.

Winding Road took it on the road for a great POV ride. Check it out and let us know your thoughts.

Photos: Lexus; Car Watch; Lexus Global

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S.J. Bryan

Longtime automotive journalist S.J. Bryan has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is an editor with Ford Truck Enthusiasts and regular contributor to F-150 Online, Harley-Davidson Forums, and The Mustang Source, among other popular auto sites.

Bryan first discovered her passion for all things automotive while riding in her parent's 1968 Ford Mustang. The automotive expert cut her teeth growing up riding on Harleys, and her first car was a Chevy Nova. Despite her lead foot, Bryan has yet to receive a speeding ticket.

The award-winning former playwright was first published at age 18. She has worked extensively as a writer and editor for a number of lifestyle and pop culture publications. The diehard gearhead is a big fan of American muscle cars, sixth-gen Ford trucks, and Oxford commas.

S.J. can be reached at sherryjbry@gmail.com.