Lexus RC coupe officially revealed in Tokyo

Lexus has officially revealed the new RC model in Tokyo today, with the new two-door coupe set to sit alongside the new IS sedan when it arrives locally in 2014.

The RC styling clearly references the LF-CC concept shown at the Paris motor show in 2012, and the name comes as no surprise, with the Japanese luxury brand trademarking the ‘RC 350’ badge with IP Australia shortly after the LF-CC’s debut.

Lexus’ use of specific nomenclature for the two door follows a similar strategy to rivals Audi and BMW with the A5 and 4 Series, and their relationship with the respective A4 and 3 Series sedan models.  

Despite the LF-CC’s role in previewing the styling of the IS sedan, the new model looks to share little sheetmetal with the four-door, with a more shapely iteration of Lexus’ L-Finesse design theme, including the most prominent spindle grille design to date.

The aggressive details continue at the rear, with sharp cutaways at each corner reminiscent of the controversial LF-NX SUV concept.

The RC’s interior design is an evolution of the IS range, with integrated foaming construction for the seats that promises to optimises comfort and support.

Lexus has also confirmed the coupe will come fitted with versions of the IS 350 and 300h’s 234kW 3.5 litre V6 and 162kW hybrid 2.5 litre drivetrains, with the two door models to be known as RC 350 and RC 300h.

Lexus has also revealed key dimensions for the RC, which is 30mm longer, 35mm lower, and 30mm wider than the IS sedan, and rides on a 70mm shorter wheelbase with seating for four.

A hardcore ‘F-Sport’ performance version is also expected down the track, with pumped-up coupe mules already sighted testing at the Nurburgring, and reports that Lexus has also trademarked the ‘RC F’ moniker.