A high-performance version of the upcoming Lexus IS coupé has been spied testing at the Nürburgring.
A coupé version of the new Lexus IS, likely to be called RC, with the range-topper called RC-F, was previewed at last year’s Paris show by the LF-CC concept. It’s clear from this Nürburgring test mule that much of the concept’s design has carried over to Lexus’s performance coupé.
The mule is identified as the RC-F rather than more humble RC variants by its bulging wheel arches, deeply sculpted bumpers, larger air intakes and design nods to the LFA supercar.
Large brakes and two sets of diagonally stacked tailpipes are further clues to the RC-F’s performance. The car was snapped testing alongside a current BMW M3 coupé, a model thought to be considered the benchmark.
The RC-F’s engine remains a mystery. An uprated version of the previous-generation IS-F saloon’s 417bhp 5.0-litre V8 is the most likely option, although Lexus officials have indicated that it is a challenge to make it meet Euro-6 emissions regulations.
The RC facelift has been revealed in Paris - get the full story here
