Lexus Australia has confirmed the new RC 350 and high-performance RC F for the local market. Both will compete in the premium sports-luxury coupe market; a first for the company.
The RC is Lexus’s coupe version of the IS sedan. It features a rigid body with larger cross-section rocker panels and a rigid lower brace for optimum handling.
Kicking off the range will be the Lexus RC 350, which is essentially a sporty two-door coupe version of the IS 350. Power comes from the usual 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6 producing 234kW and 380Nm. Sitting behind the engine is an eight-speed sports automatic, sending power to the rear wheels.
The RC 350 is set to come with a range of luxury appointments, including leather upholstery, a multimedia touch-screen interface, power adjustable everything, and a high-end audio system.
Coming in as a direct rival to the BMW M4 and Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupe, the RC F brings a higher level of performance than the outgoing IS F sedan.
Under the bonnet is a tweaked version of the company’s 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine, producing “over 330kW” of power and 520Nm of torque.
It’s matched up to an eight-speed sports automatic transmission as well, feeding power to the rear wheels. It comes with sports suspension, brakes, and steering, as well as a tantalising bodykit with large alloy wheels.
The new models are anticipated to be highly popular for Lexus, especially as these will be the first rear-drive coupes from the company. Sean Hanley, Lexus Australia chief executive, spoke about the models in a statement, saying,
“These two new vehicles epitomise Lexus’ renewed focus on driving dynamics and design – while signalling a bolder, stronger, more confident Lexus.
“We are certain that these two vehicles will appeal to Australian consumers, delivering that ideal mix of attractive looks and compelling performance.”
Both will go on sale in Australia during late-2014 or early-2015. Prices are yet to be announced.
