5 Facts about the Lexus F Marque Distinction
How much do you know about the meaning behind this singular yet powerful letter?
1. Origins
Lexus actually first referred to the F designation as somewhat of a code used internally when discussing the development of its first vehicle in 1989. This later sparked rumors that it was meant to stand for "Fast" or "Flagship," but it actually referred to the Fuji Speedway in Japan. What was so special about this speedway? Specifically, the "F" shape apparently was made to resemble the first corner, 27R.
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2. First Models
The F marque emblem represents the Lexus models that boast the highest level of performance. The first vehicle to be stamped with the letter's approval was the widely popular Lexus IS F (pictured above) in 2006. An F marque coupe concept, also known as the LF-A, followed a year later. Subsequently, the LFA supercar was produced in 2009.
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3. Other Models
Later models to be given the powerful distinction include the Lexus RC F and GS F. Under the hood of the RC F is a 5.0-liter, 32-valve V8 engine that's Lexus' most powerful V8 used so far in their production cars. What's more, the RC F has an eight-speed Sports Direct Shift transmission, partially responsible for its 467bhp and 389lb-ft of torque output.
The Lexus GS F is really the more powerful older brother of the regular GS sedan. It's got the same incredible engine as the RC F and was revealed at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show.
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4. F Sport Trim
A special trim line, known as the F Sport, was introduced in 2007 as an accessory line essentially comprised of performance-based upgrades. The F Sport trim first appeared on 2010 models from the factory. These models had interior and exterior upgrades that could be distinguished by F Sport badging, spoilers, and mesh grilles. It's no surprise that the featured performance parts and enhancements, such as stabilizer bars, lowering springs, brake upgrades, Bilstein shocks, F Sport clutch, chassis braces, and carbon fiber engine covers, were produced in part by Toyota Racing Development.
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5. Notable Wins
Because they boast the most powerful engines in the Lexus lineup of production cars, Lexus F models are the go-to competitors for the brand. Specifically, the LF-A prototype, IS F, and RC F have competed in the 24 Hours Nürburgring and various VLN endurance races. The IS F won its class in once such four-hour endurance competition in 2010, whereas an LFA car won the 24 Hours Nürburgring in the same year. Just this year, the RC F placed first in the SP-PRO class, 24th overall at the 24 Hours Nürburgring.
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