What's this then?
The new Lexus flagship performance saloon intends to take on the likes of the BMW M5, Audi RS 6 and Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG. Heavyweight competition for sure, but following the recent launch of the two-door RC F coupé Lexus is keen to show that it means business.
What has it got on its side?
The RC F's naturally aspirated V8 engine for a start. The exterior gets some suitably sporting tweaks including enlarged air intakes either side of that already large grille. Updated headlights sit above new daytime running lamps that are just like those on the current Lexus IS. There are new multi-spoke lightweight alloy wheels and the rear-end gets two sets of vertically-stacked exhausts, just like on the RC F. The interior features figure-hugging sports seats up front and lashings of carbon fibre trim across the dashboard facia and on the doors.
Will it be as good as the rest?
Well, on paper it certainly keeps up. It is unlikely that the engine will differ from that in the RC F, which is a naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 and produces 477hp at an ear-pleasing 7,100rpm. Helping put that power down onto the road is an eight-speed automatic transmission coupled to a torque-vectoring differential.
When will it be launched?
It will be officially unveiled to the public at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit next week and should hit the road later in 2015. As yet, there's no official word on pricing.
Dave Humphreys - 6 Jan 2015