IT is 10 years since Lexus launched its high performance F series of cars and to mark the occasion the Japanese luxury brand is releasing a special limited edition model.

The RC F 10 Anniversary will cost from £69,995 and will be on sale from July 1 as an exclusive version of the performance coupe.

It comes with a special matt grey paint finish - the first time such a paint job has been used on a Lexus - and has Brembo brakes highlighted in blue.

The same blue shade is used to edge the discreet F badging on the car's front wings while inside the theme is continued into the trim and the front seat leather upholstery with the surrounds for the window controls on the door armrests having a striking carbon weave finish in blue, black and silver.

The rear seats are wrapped in black leather and a black headlining, embossed with the F symbol completes the effect.

Each model is also fitted with a discreet metal plaque recording the car's Special Edition status, affixed to the driver's door arm rest.

Other features include an RC F Carbon Pack, equipping the car with a carbon fibre bonnet, roof and active rear spoiler, together with a torque vectoring differential for superior handling, adaptive variable suspension and a multi-mode drive system with sport and ‘expert' settings.

The RC F Anniversary model is powered by a naturally aspirated V8 engine that produces 457bhp and maximum torque of 520Nm, coupled to an eight-speed direct shift automatic transmission.

Acceleration from 0 to 62mph is 4.5 seconds and the car has a top speed electronically limited to 168mph.