What’s not to love about the Lexus LC? It boasts an ideal number of doors, a naturally aspirated V8 engine underneath, with an impressive 471 horsepower at its disposal, all wrapped in a strikingly futuristic design. While this grand tourer, weighing two tons, is equipped with the same 5.0-liter engine found in the GS F and RC F models, its standout aesthetics don’t quite align with its current performance—yet.
A more powerful variant of this celebrated two-door coupe is on the horizon, and Lexus Enthusiast has captured the initial spy images. This curious right-hand drive prototype was spotted parked in Southern California. It features some visual modifications, including reworked side skirts and a redesigned rear valance. Notably absent are the front fender side vents that were characteristic of earlier F models, which could suggest that this vehicle is undergoing engine testing. There’s also a chance that this isn’t an LC F but simply the visually striking F Sport trim. It remains unclear if this test model was equipped with the iconic stacked quad exhaust pipes typically associated with the F performance series.
The forthcoming performance coupe is expected to be powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, rumored to generate over 600 horsepower. This will mark the third occasion Lexus incorporates a turbocharged engine into its range. The brand initially launched its first 2.0-liter turbo engine for the NX crossover in 2014. This engine is also available for the IS, GS, and RC models. Meanwhile, the 2018 LS 500 features a twin-turbo V6 that produces 416 horsepower, matching the output of the now-discontinued IS F, which utilized an older 5.0-liter V8.
Currently, the LC 500 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of 168 mph. Is it too much to hope for the LC F to achieve a sub-4-second time from 0 to 60 and reach a maximum speed of 200 mph? Perhaps, but in the meantime, we can at least look forward to more photos to admire.
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