When the Lexus LF-CC (Lexus Future Concept Coupé) first appeared at the 2012 Paris Motor Show we were certain it would become a Coupé version of the IS saloon.

But according to Lexus, the new RC Coupé (sporty two-door sister car to the IS) was inspired by the LF-LC concept car, a model designed at the company’s Calty studios in California.

The front features triangular headlamps to differentiate it from the IS saloon, while the rear looks like a mix between the IS and the LFA supercar – with combination lamps following the shape of the Lexus L motif.

The show car features a ‘glowing red’ paint colour, specially developed by Lexus using a new painting process – the process gives the colour brighter and stronger contrasts by using multiple layers of clear and deeper-coloured coating.

Lexus-RC-coupe_G3

Inside, the four-seat RC is very much like the IS saloon, with a driver-centric cockpit framed around an upper operation zone and lower display zone. There’s a new high-contrast trim colour called ‘clove’ and a genuine wood finish – described by Lexus as shimamoku highlights – which features an intense layering technique.

The RC measures 4,695mm long, 1,840mm wide and 1,395mm high, with a 2,730mm wheelbase – as in the IS, and will be powered by either a 3.5-litre V6 engine (for the RC 350) or a 2.5-litre unit in the RC 300h hybrid.

The production model will feature a choice of two alloy wheels finished with black and platinum centre caps; a 10-spoke 19-inch wheel and five-spoke 18-inch version.

  • Lexus-LF-LC-Concept
  • Lexus-LF-CC-Concept

Left to Right: Lexus LF-LC, first unveiled at the 2012 North American International Motor show. On the right: Lexus LF-CC which previewed the new IS Saloon.

Further technical details will be revealed at the Tokyo motor show on 20 November 2013, with clarification of the UK engine and gearbox line-up announced early in 2014.

coupe IS lexus