Paris show: Lexus shows off updated RC coupe

LEXUS has officially unveiled its updated RC coupe at the Paris motor show, with sharper handling and throttle characteristics, a softer ride calibration and styling that draws inspiration from the flagship LC coupe.

 

Due in Australia by the end of the year, Toyota’s premium arm has improved the dynamics of the RC by fine-tuning its suspension, powertrain and aerodynamics.

 

Throttle response in the RC300’s 180kW/350Nm 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine has been been enhanced for more direct acceleration, while all versions benefit from a more stable ride quality and better handling characteristics, which Lexus says have been derived from the LC.

 

Steering response has been refined thanks to grippier tyres that wrap around new 19-inch alloys, while ride quality is more supple with new shock absorbers and stiffer suspension bushings, enhancing the RC’s reputation as a grand tourer.

 

Styling changes have resulted in greater aerodynamic capability, including a new fin shape on the side window mould and a duct on the rear bumper that improves air flow.

 

Air ducts have been added to the corners of the rear bumpers for added stability, while the car’s overall stance has been widened and centre of gravity lowered.

 

The styling changes has been inspired by the LC, such as the new front bumper corner that tapers down from the headlights and a mesh grille that changes shape from top to bottom.

 

The headlight design has been tweaked with vertically stacked triple LED lights and angular daytime running lights, while the tail-lights feature more L-shaped LED lamps.

 

Inside, the knee pads that sandwich the centre cluster are higher and larger, while the analogue clock from the LC has found its way in to the RC’s cabin.

 

No changes have been made to the range’s three powertrains, consisting of the aforementioned 2.0-litre turbo-petrol unit, a 233kW/378Nm 3.5-litre aspirated V6, and a 5.0-litre free-breathing V8 in the top-spec RC F that pumps out 351kW/530Nm.

 

Local pricing is expected to be revealed closer to its release date towards the end of the year.

 

So far in 2018, Lexus has sold 240 examples of the RC, down 3.6 per cent on the 249 it sold to the same period last year.

 

It sits fifth in the $80,000-$200,000 sportscar segment, behind the two-door Mercedes-Benz C-Class (1246), BMW 4 Series (512), two-door E-Class (488) and Audi A5 (446).

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