Lexus RC to debut at Tokyo Motor Show

The Lexus RC coupe will bow at the Tokyo motor show later this month. The RC 350 will sport the 3.5-liter V6 while the RC 300h will get a 2.5-liter four with a hybrid system. Lexus says the RC was built to raise the brand's profile with a broader audience.

The RC gets the widest and lowest version of the Lexus spindle grille. Triangular headlights accent the front. The low beams feature a Nike swoosh pattern while the rears do the same.

Available aluminum wheels are 10-spoke, 19-inch wheels or five-spoke 18s. Both are machine finished with black or platinum center caps.

Inside, the RC has a new lighting package with illumination that reflects upwards. A new color named Clove helps emphasize the interior lines. Wood highlights are used for surrounding trim.

Like it is on the rest of the new Lexus models, the driver's area is separated into operational and display zones. The upper zone features the 7-inch navigation screen and the layered center console integrates a new touch interface.

Though the RC is less than an inch bigger than the IS, Lexus says it is not considered an IS coupe. It also falls within a few inches of the new BMW 4-series and Mercedes C-Class coupe.

We expect the bigger V6 to fall somewhere near the 306-hp of the IS and the 2.5-liter hybrid to land in the 200 hp range. Pricing and on-sale date info is not yet available.

About the Tokyo Motor Show

Japan is once again among the leaders of the global auto industry, and the Tokyo Motor Show promises to showcase the best of what that country has to offer. From green cars to super cars, technology to design, 2013 promises to be a banner year for the Tokyo Motor show. Autoweek will be on the show floor, bringing you the latest Tokyo reviews, news, photo galleries, and videos right here.

By Jake Lingeman