The organizers of the annual “Car of the Year in Russia” officially announced the winners of the 2019 competition. The award ceremony was held on May 16, 2019 in the Izvestia Hall.

According to the results of the all-Russian voting, more than one million Russian car enthusiasts chose the Lexus RC as Coupe of the Year.

Tested extensively on the famous Nürburgring, this four-seater sports coupe delivers exhilarating performance with bold, head-turning design. Behind its muscular and aggressive stance, the RC's rigid chassis offers exceptional handling and agility. Delivering power of 245 hp, with high precision and economy through a 2.0 litre turbocharged engine with 8-speed Sport Direct Shift transmission, the RC reflects Lexus’s passion for engaging driving.

The model was named the best according to the online survey, which was conducted from January 1 to April 14, 2019. The voting data was processed and analysed by an independent research company Ipsos Comcon.

· THE NEW RC GAINS A SPORTY-YET-ELEGANT EXTERIOR THAT DRAWS ON THE SVELTE DESIGN LANGUAGE OF THE LC FLAGSHIP COUPE

· INTERIOR REFINEMENTS HEIGHTEN DRIVING PLEASURE

· THE NEW RC IS INSPIRED BY THE “EVEN SHARPER AND MORE GRACEFUL” DRIVING CONCEPT OF THE LC, ACHIEVED THROUGH MASTER CRAFTSMANSHIP

Since its introduction in 2014, the RC has played a major role in promoting Lexus’ commitment to delivering a more emotional quality in the driving experience provided by its vehicles, with its sporty appearance and versatile driving character. The fresh new RC retains all the virtues of the current model, but takes them to a higher level by adopting the latest evolution of Lexus’ signature design language and sharpened driving dynamics inspired by the brand’s flagship luxury coupe, the LC.

The exterior styling remains as sporty as the current model, but subtle changes in the details, inspired by Lexus LC design cues, imbue it with a new-found elegance. Inside the cabin, everything from the high-quality materials to the precise layout of controls and gauges was crafted to maximize driving pleasure.

Enhancements have been made to the RC’s aerodynamics, tyres and suspension, and there are also improvements to engine response and steering feel, all of which reflecting the “even sharper and more graceful” drive philosophy that was introduced by the LC. The new RC is more stable than ever under a wide variety of driving conditions. This provides a high level of driver confidence and a reassuringly flat ride quality, making the coupe an ideal grand tourer, whether you’re negotiating a twisty mountain road or simply making a long-distance commute on the open highway.

DESIGN REFINEMENTS INSPIRED BY THE LC FLAGSHIP COUPE

· THE NEW RC GAINS A SPORTY-YET-ELEGANT EXTERIOR THAT DRAWS ON THE SVELTE DESIGN LANGUAGE OF THE LC FLAGSHIP COUPE

· INTERIOR REFINEMENTS HEIGHTEN DRIVING PLEASURE

Lexus designers sought to maintain the RC’s dynamic coupe proportions, while adding a high level of elegance to the exterior. Key to achieving this was the addition of distinctive design elements, such as a new front bumper corner that flows down from the headlamps and a grille mesh pattern comprising shapes which gradually transform from top to bottom, creating an intriguing visual tension. The vertical arrangement of the ultra-compact triple LED headlamps and new L-shaped LED clearance lamps add to the car’s more distinguished appearance.

Air ducts have been added to the corners of the rear bumper, resulting in better handling stability and enhanced overall driving response. A wider stance and lower centre of gravity reflect the car’s ability to maintain high grip in different road conditions. The rear combination lamps house more pronounced L-shaped lenses that are a new signature design feature for Lexus coupes.

The two-door RC coupe presents an impressive low profile and wide stance, with its compact cabin contrasting with the powerfully flared wings and deeply sweeping lines across the contoured body. Key dimensions are a 4,700 mm overall length, 1,840 mm overall width, 1,395 mm height and 2,730 mm wheelbase.

Creating these powerful character lines requires advanced press technologies that surpass conventional production line standards, and have, hitherto, been reserved for concept vehicles alone. The resultant, powerfully three-dimensional forms constantly change in appearance as you move around the car, creating a striking presence when viewed from any angle.

In conjunction with the narrowest possible panel gaps, the coupe’s low, sleek proportions are enhanced by the use of two advanced construction technologies: a rear wheel arch hemming treatment and laser brazing. The former reduces both the thickness of the panel at the lip of the wheel arch and the vertical gap between the tyre and the arch.

Eleven different exterior colours are available for the new RC, including Flare Yellow and Sky Blue, shades which perfectly communicate the car’s dynamic nature.

The new RC F SPORT features the same grille mesh pattern that graces all Lexus F SPORT models, together with many other custom exterior and interior elements that are exclusive to the grade. These include 19-inch alloy wheels, inspired by those used by the LS and LC luxury flagship sedan and coupe.

DRIVING PLEASURE HEIGHTENED BY INTERIOR REFINEMENTS

A brushed treatment has been applied to the heater control and audio panels, generating a higher sense of quality, while the knee pads either side of the centre console have been made larger and raised higher, creating a greater sense of space in the front of the cabin. The driver’s palm rest has been reshaped and a stitching pattern has been added to the surface, showcasing the designers’ high attention to detail.

A new analogue clock, identical to the one in the LC, sits high on the instrument panel in another identifying feature of Lexus coupes.

An exclusive, highly supportive sports front seat design is constructed using an ‘integrated foaming’ method. This allows for the moulding of large concave surfaces while ensuring that there are no gaps between the seat upholstery and the foam padding, ensuring both excellent comfort and outstanding lateral holding performance.

A one-touch walk-in function gives easy access to the 60:40 split folding rear seats. The front seat automatically slides forwards when the seat back is folded forwards by means of the shoulder-mounted lever. The seat automatically returns to its original position when the seatback is raised again.

Contrast stitching to the seats, an enlarged centre console trim and generously proportioned knee pads add high-quality accents to the interior design, while further enhancing the holding performance of the smooth, synthetic or semi-aniline leather seat upholstery.

The premium quality interior of the RC makes maximum use of contrasting colours, materials and lighting, highlighting the car’s sporting elegance. The ambient illumination is angled for upward rather than downward reflection, including door trim lighting with brightness that automatically adjusts to suit driving conditions.

New ornamentation options, including real aluminium Naguri and Brushed Metal are available for the RC F SPORT. In all, RC customers will have five options to choose from.

Interior colours include Ochre, which is also featured in the LC, and Mustard , which comprises subtle yellow accents on a black background. Seven interior colour combinations are available, including those reserved for the F SPORT.

PERFORMANCE INSPIRED BY “EVEN SHARPER AND MORE GRACEFUL” DRIVING CONCEPT

Inspired by the driving concept of “even sharper and more graceful” that defines the Lexus LC coupe, Lexus engineers have sought to make the new RC thoroughly fun to drive by focusing their attention on the details, improving the car’s aerodynamics and fine-tuning the suspension system and powertrain. Endowed with a flatter and more stable ride quality and sharper handling characteristics derived from the LC, the new RC is more athletic and responsive than ever.

Suspension

The front double wishbone and rear multi-link suspension systems combine well-balanced, agile handling with superior straight-line ride comfort. They are designed to reduce understeer, ensure accurate yaw response during steering, effect a smooth transition to cornering attitude and help achieve an integrated feel between steering input and vehicle behaviour, marrying a fine ride quality with agile, engaging handling characteristics.

The new RC’s suspension has been further tuned for more supple performance, improved grip and better handling. New shock absorbers, which provide significant damping force from low suspension stroke speeds, and stiffer suspension bushings have also been introduced. To guarantee the desired dynamic performance, the coupe underwent extensive real-world testing, with chassis engineers constantly fine-tuning the package to improve ride and handling.

To complement the change in performance, the electric power steering has been re-tuned to give the driver accurate feedback on the interaction between the tyres and the road surface. New 19-inch wheels fitted with higher grip tyres also support excellent steering response.

Aerodynamics 

The RC incorporates tried and tested race car aerodynamics to both upper and underbody surfaces to enhance stability during high-speed driving, achieving 0.306 coefficient of drag (Cd).

Upper body aerodynamic measures have been introduced to support the “even sharper and more graceful” driving concept. Importance has also been placed on tuning the car’s aerodynamic characteristics to provide a higher level of handling performance, stability, and ride comfort. Details include the introduction of a new fin shape in the side window mouldings and a duct in the rear bumper, giving the car better handling stability

Aluminium tapes applied to the back of the front and rear bumpers help rectify airflow, contributing to the car’s handling stability. When the vehicle is moving and the body is positively charged, similarly charged airflow is repelled; as a result, the airflow is separated from the outer surface of the bodywork. Specially shaped aluminium tapes on the bumper promote the discharge of static electricity from the body, helping suppress airflow separation.

High-rigidity bodyshell

The RC’s high-rigidity bodyshell is the foundation for its agility, precise steering response and high levels of mechanical grip. It features large cross-section rocker panels, cowl side bracing, optimised underbody bracing reinforcement, and even high-rigidity front and rear screen glass adhesive.

Numerous specialised Lexus manufacturing techniques are used to enhance rigidity, including body adhesives, multi-spot welding and laser-screw welding around the door apertures, quarter glass and upper back panel.

These measures combine to maximise the torsional rigidity of the bodyshell, contributing to enhanced steering response and body control during cornering.

REFINED, QUIET AND HIGHLY EFFICIENT SELF-CHARGING HYBRID POWERTRAIN

· 221 DIN HP/164 KW FULL HYBRID POWERTRAIN

· EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE EFFICIENCY WITH COMBINED CYCLE FUEL CONSUMPTION FROM 5.9 L/100 KM (WLTP) AND CO₂EMISSIONS FROM 131.7 G/KM (WLTP¹)

The RC 300h is powered by a self-charging full hybrid system that gives the vehicle the capability of running emissions-free on its electric power alone.

The powertrain combines a petrol engine and compact but powerful electric motor. These automatically work together or individually to provide optimum performance according to road conditions and the driver’s preference. Lexus Hybrids recharge as you drive, so they are always ready to go. Furthermore, up to 53.8%²of city driving time can be accomplished in zero emissions EV mode. The system is also characterised by quick and linear acceleration, high fuel efficiency, exceptionally low emissions and a luxuriously smooth ride.

The engine featured in the RC’s Lexus Hybrid Drive is a 2,494 cc Atkinson cycle, direct injection, four-cylinder unit that delivers a maximum output of 181 DIN hp/133 kW at 6,000 rpm and peak torque of 221 Nm between 4,200 and 4,800 rpm. The electric motor has an output of 143 DIN hp/105 kW. The combined system power is 223 DIN hp/164 kW.

The rear-wheel drive RC 300h accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 8.6 seconds and has a maximum speed of 190 km/h, yet returns average fuel consumption figures from as low as 5.9 l/100 km (WLTP¹) and CO₂emissions from just 131.7 g/km (WLTP¹).

The engine’s Atkinson cycle timing features an expansion stroke that is longer than the compression stroke, resulting in a more efficient conversion of combustion energy. This, together with a higher compression ratio and the introduction of additional advanced engine technologies, improves the engine’s thermal efficiency to 38.5%.

¹ Correlated NEDC values: Fuel consumption from 5.0 L/100Km, CO2 emissions from 114 g/Km

² According to TOYOTA HEV European Customers Test Drive, 2014 - July 2018

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES FOR ON-BOARD ENTERTAINMENT AND SAFETY

· HIGH-QUALITY AUDIO SYSTEMS

· SUITE OF ADVANCED ACTIVE AND PASSIVE SAFETY FEATURES

The RC can be equipped with six-speaker, 160 W or 10-speaker, 256 W Pioneer sound systems, both of which provide distortion-free, clear sound quality with wide-ranging sonic reproduction, rich presence and natural sound dynamics.

A 17-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround System is also available. This has been developed with an emphasis on high resolution and high musicality to deliver excellent natural dynamics and rich harmonies in a 360-degree, three-dimensional sonic space.

Despite its compact size, this 835 W system delivers significantly high power and high sound quality, with five-channel playback. Front centre, front right and left, and rear surround right and left speakers realise optimum consistency of sound quality for every cabin occupant.

The Mark Levinson Premium Surround System also incorporates Signal Doctor music playback technology, which compensates for the loss of high frequencies and the lack of clarity which can occur when using digital music players and other compressed sound sources, to create a clearer, richer sound, close the original recording quality.

SUITE OF ADVANCED ACTIVE AND PASSIVE SAFETY FEATURES

The RC builds on Lexus’ unique Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system with Lexus Safety System + which includes Pre-Crash Safety (PCS) system with Adaptive Cruise Control.

Further active safety technology includes a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Lane Departure Alert (LDA), an Auto Location Tyre Pressure Warning System (AL-TPWS) and an Automatic High Beam (AHB) headlamp system

Within a highly rigid body structure of exceptional car-to-car impact compatibility, eight airbags are fitted as standard, and a pop-up hood design allows for the lowest possible vehicle front profile whilst optimising pedestrian impact protection.

Andreas Møller, the fast-rising Danish chef of the Parisian Michelin-starred restaurant Copenhague, translated the #SharpYetSmooth qualities of the new RC into a dish of contrasting tastes and textures. This project took Andreas out of the kitchen and put him behind the wheel of the new coupe to fully understand the distinct qualities of the car and Lexus’ brand philosophy.

“When Lexus approached me to work together on this challenging project, I was excited by the concept of inventing a dish that’s inspired by a car,” said Andreas, “In driving or dining alike, it’s the experience and emotion that matter and stay in your memory” – he added.

Explaining his inspiration for the dish, Andreas said: “What impressed me, apart from RC’s looks, was how the feel of a sharp drive in a sporty coupe is complemented by a quiet and smooth hybrid powertrain. It was this contrast I wanted to use as the centrepiece of my culinary creation.”

Andreas’ work in the kitchen, creating a new dish with care, precision and the benefit of experience working to the highest standards, bears a comparison with the way in which Lexus’ Takumi craftsmen apply the finest human skills to achieve outstanding results. And just as Andreas works only with the finest ingredients, so Lexus makes use of high-quality materials.

Andreas described how he brings together contrasting elements to create an innovative dish, true to Lexus’ “YET” philosophy: “I always try to marry flavours which you would normally keep separate. I think it is fun to challenge your guests’ perception of sweet and savoury and bring forward flavour combinations that are surprising” he said.

Oak-smoked mackerel is combined with ribbons of kohlrabi, given a glassy lustre by a horseradish marinade. The spectrum of different flavours and textures includes pickled mustard and ramson seeds, lemon caviar, currants, borage, nasturtiums and green saltwort – sweet, sour and salt in an intriguing combination. The dish is topped with layer of candy floss, which dissolves when a sauce of salted lemons, currants and seaweed oil is poured on top, revealing the dish’s hidden secrets below.

“The idea with the candy floss is that it hides and then reveals all the good things underneath, much like when you step into the car and discover so much more than you expected at first glance,” said Andreas.

The best traditions of Omotenashi hospitality are instilled in every Lexus car and it’s another area in which Andreas’ work shares the same desire to anticipate people’s needs and go beyond their expectations. “We have guests from all over the world here but what they have in common is that they want the best experience their money can buy them. It’s our job to fulfil their expectations and give them an experience to remember. Customer service is basically easy – give your guests the service you would want and expect yourself, while always striving to be even better.”

Certainly Andreas has been impressed by Lexus, not just through his creative collaboration, but through many hours of driving: “I admit I had rarely seen one before I moved from Denmark to France, but I was pleasantly surprised by how the cars looked and felt luxurious. After covering 4,200 kilometres driving around France in a Lexus last summer, I can declare without doubt that I am a fan. Everyone wants a car that’s a head-turner, and in my experience the Lexus definitely is.”

“I like the way the brand feels understated and cool. It’s low-key, but still has so much to bring to the table. The design isn’t showy or over-the-top, it’s tasteful and just right.”

Lexus invites media visitors to taste #SharpYetSmooth on the Lexus stand during the world debut of the new RC at the Paris Motor Show on October 2, from 11:00 to 16:00.

Follow #SharpYetSmooth tag for more updates.

Lexus will host the world debut of a new version of the RC luxury sports coupe at the Paris Motor Show on October 2. European sales of the new model will commence from late 2018.

Since its introduction in 2014, the RC has played a major role in promoting Lexus’ commitment to delivering a more emotional quality in the driving experience provided by its vehicles, with its sporty appearance and versatile driving character. The fresh new RC retains all the virtues of the current model, but takes them to a higher level by adopting the latest evolution of Lexus’ signature design language and sharpened driving dynamics inspired by the brand’s flagship luxury coupe, the LC.

The exterior styling remains as sporty as the current model, but subtle changes in the details, inspired by Lexus LC design cues, imbue it with a new-found elegance. Inside the cabin, everything from the high-quality materials to the precise layout of controls and gauges was crafted to maximize driving pleasure.

Enhancements have been made to the RC’s aerodynamics, tyres and suspension, and there are also improvements to engine response and steering feel, all of which reflecting the “sharper and more refined” drive philosophy that was introduced by the LC. The new RC is more stable than ever under a wide variety of driving conditions. This provides a high level of driver confidence and a reassuringly flat ride quality, making the coupe an ideal grand tourer, whether you’re negotiating a twisty mountain road or simply making a long-distance commute on the open highway.

ADOPTING THE SPORTY-YET-ELEGANT EXTERIOR DESIGN LANGUAGE OF THE LC FLAGSHIP COUPE

Lexus designers sought to maintain the RC’s dynamic coupe proportions, while adding a high level of elegance to the exterior. Key to achieving this was the addition of distinctive design elements, such as a new front bumper corner that flows down from the headlamps and a grille mesh pattern comprising shapes which gradually transform from top to bottom, creating an intriguing visual tension. The vertical arrangement of the extra-small triple LED headlamps and new L-shaped LED clearance lamps add to the car’s more distinguished appearance.

Air ducts have been added to the corner of the rear bumper, resulting in better handling stability and enhanced overall driving response. A wider stance and lower centre of gravity reflect the car’s high ability to maintain grip in different road conditions. The rear combination lamps now house more pronounced L-shaped lenses that are a new signature design feature for Lexus coupes.

In all 11 different exterior colours will be available for the RC, including Flare Yellow and Sky Blue, shades which perfectly communicate the car’s dynamic nature.

The new RC F SPORT features the same grille mesh pattern that graces all Lexus F SPORT models, together with many other custom exterior and interior items that are exclusive to this special grade. These include powerfully styled 19-inch alloy wheels, inspired by those used by the LS and LC luxury flagship sedan and coupe.

DRIVING PLEASURE HEIGHTENED BY INTERIOR REFINEMENTS

A brushed treatment has been applied to the heater control and audio panels, generating a higher sense of quality, while the knee pads either side of the centre console have been made larger and raised higher, creating a greater sense of space in the front of the cabin. The driver’s palm rest has been reshaped and a stitching pattern has been added to the surface, showcasing the designers’ high attention to detail.

A new analogue clock, identical to the one in the LC, sits high on the instrument panel in another identifying feature of Lexus coupes.

New ornamentation options, including real aluminum Naguri and Brushed Metal will be available for the RC F SPORT. In all, RC customers will have five options to choose from.

Interior colours include Ochre, which is also featured in the LC, and Mustard , which comprises subtle yellow accents on a black background. Seven interior colour combinations will be available, including those reserved for the F SPORT.

 “SHARPER AND MORE GRACEFUL” DRIVING CONCEPT

Adopting the driving concept of “sharper and more graceful” that defines the LC, Lexus engineers have aimed at making the new RC thoroughly fun to drive by focusing their attention on the details, such as enhancing the car’s aerodynamics and fine-tuning the suspension system and powertrain. Endowed with a flatter and more stable ride quality and sharper handling characteristics derived from the LC, the new RC is more athletic and responsive than ever.

Enhanced aerodynamics, achieved with details such as a new fin shape in the side window mouldings and a duct in the rear bumper, give the car better handling stability.

New 19-inch wheels shod with higher-grip tyres support excellent steering response. New shock absorbers, which provide significant damping force from low suspension stroke speeds, and stiffer suspension bushings have also been introduced. The new RC underwent extensive real-world testing, with chassis engineers constantly fine-tuning performance, to improve ride and handling.

Throttle response from the turbocharged 2.0-litre engine has been improved to deliver a more direct feeling of acceleration and a more spirited driving experience.

The new Lexus RC will make its world debut on October 2 at the Paris Motor Show.

September 5th marked the first public appearance of the new Lexus RC coupe, almost a month ahead of its world premiere at Paris Motor Show 2018, at a pop-up event hosted in partnership with up-and-coming chef Andreas Møller of the restaurant Copenhague on the Champs-Elysées in Paris.

The new, reimagined RC blends comfort refinements with the latest Lexus signature design cues and sharper driving dynamics, drawing its inspiration from the LC flagship luxury coupe. The improvements featured in the new RC are a perfect embodiment of Lexus’ “YET” philosophy, giving the car a distinctive “sharp yet smooth” character, demonstrating how seemingly contrasting qualities can come together to brilliant effect. The sharpness can be found in RC’s more direct, responsive handling and bold design features, while the refined self-charging hybrid powertrain and interior finish enhancements express its smoothness.

Andreas Møller has created an out of the ordinary dish interpreting the #SharpYetSmooth character of the new RC. The Danish chef was the first to test drive the new luxury sports coupe through the heart of Paris, gaining inspiration for his unique gastronomic creation that captures the contrasting qualities of the car.

Andreas, whose skills were honoured with a first Michelin star earlier this year, envisioned a dish that translates the “YET” feeling - on the tastebuds. “I wanted to create something that is light and airy yet still has a lot of substance with strong flavours coming through – essentially Sharp Yet Smooth”, he explained.

“The dish includes mackerel, a fish that looks sharp, yet has the smoothest texture beneath the skin, which reflects the sharp lines of the RC and its luxurious interior. There is another parallel in my use of candy floss, the idea being that it hides then reveals all good things underneath, just as when you step into the new RC, it reveals more than you expect at first glance.”

Andreas sees strong parallels between his approach to cooking and Lexus’ “YET” philosophy: “I try to marry flavours that you would normally keep apart. I think it’s fun to challenge the guest’s perception of sweet and savoury with surprising flavour combinations,” he said.

This original collaboration and the pop-up reveal on the Champs-Elysées showcase Lexus’ ongoing commitment to create Amazing Experiences, both behind the wheel of its cars, and beyond.

#SHARPYETSMOOTH CREATION BY ANDREAS MOLLER

The raw mackerel is oak-smoked to give it a deeper flavour. It is complemented by kohlrabi that has been marinated with horseradish to bring out sharpness without being overpowering. The marinade also gives the kohlrabi a clear, glass-like appearance and the special way it is cut creates smooth waves that define the appearance of the dish.

The pickled mustard and ramson seeds give the dish an extra texture and create small explosions of flavour. Lemon caviar, also known as finger limes, add acidity to balance out the heavier flavours of the pickled ingredients. Using caviar as a topping adds both a luxury feel and a saltiness that balances with the taste of the smoked mackerel. Raw whitecurrants and fermented currants are added, giving both acidity and a hint of soft sweetness.

Green saltwort is a seashore plant that retains strong saltiness in its crisp stems, while nasturtium and borage bring freshness and an edge to the dish.

Lightly salted airy candy floss sprinkled with lemon dust is added as a topping and the final touch is a drizzle of whitecurrant juice, juice from salted lemons and seaweed oil, which melts the candy floss and brings together all the dish’s flavours, masterfully bringing the sharp and the smooth notes together

The result is a dish featuring a wealth of different ingredients, flavours and textures that would perhaps not be considered natural partner, yet come together to deliver something truly remarkable.

#SHARPYETSMOOTH AT PARIS MOTOR SHOW

Lexus invites media visitors to taste #SharpYetSmooth on the Lexus stand during the world debut of the new RC at the Paris Motor Show on October 2, from 11:00 to 16:00.

Follow #SharpYetSmooth tag for more updates.

The Paris Motor Show will host the world debut of the new Lexus RC luxury sports coupe on October 2. Its reveal precedes the start of European sales of the new model from late 2018.

Ever since its launch in 2014, the RC has played a key role in Lexus’ strategy to bring a stronger emotional quality to its vehicles. The new reimagined RC blends further comfort refinements with the latest Lexus signature design cues and sharper driving dynamics, drawing its inspiration from the LC flagship luxury coupe. The sporty appearance with its new-found elegance and engaging driving character, make the new RC exciting and more accessible entry point to Lexus coupe ownership.

The imaginative concept of #SharpYetSmooth will replace the classic on-stand motor show press conference and will tell the story of the new reimagined RC and Lexus brand values. The activity will take place from 11:00 to 16:00 CET at the show’s first press day. More details will be revealed through social media via the hashtag #SharpYetSmooth.

The second premiere for Lexus in Paris will feature the new LC Yellow Edition, a dazzling addition to the luxury brand’s flagship coupe range. The new model is distinguished externally by its vibrant Flare Yellow bodywork, achieved using painstaking selection of layered paint and primer colours. The result sets off the LC’s award-winning styling to head-turning effect, while the cabin is also rendered in a unique combination of warm yellow, white and black. The new LC Yellow Edition further benefits from the performance and handling features that are included in the top-of-the-range LC Sport+ specification.

Another Lexus highlight in Paris is the European premiere of the all-new, seventh generation ES luxury sedan. With a heritage of comfort, refinement and luxury, the new ES builds on its core strengths with an all-new chassis that allows for a dynamic exterior design and engaging driving experience.

The new UX compact crossover will also be featured on Lexus’ stand and order books will open for the first time. The UX will take its place alongside the established CT luxury hatchback as a gateway model for the Lexus brand and will play an important role in helping the company reach its target of 100,000 annual new vehicle sales in Europe* by 2020. Its self-charging hybrid technology has growing appeal, as the market moves away from diesel power to embrace alternative, electrified powertrains.

^{*Lexus Europe sales include the European Union countries, Norway, Iceland and Switzerland, as well as the following Eastern markets: Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Caucasus region, Turkey and Israel.}

Lexus today announced a new version of the RC luxury sports coupe, scheduled to make its global debut at the Paris Motor Show on October 2. European sales of the new model will commence from late 2018.

Since its introduction in 2014, the RC has played a major role in promoting Lexus’ commitment to delivering a more emotional quality in the driving experience provided by its vehicles, with its sporty appearance and versatile driving character. The fresh new RC retains all the virtues of the current model, but takes them to a higher level by adopting the latest evolution of Lexus’ signature design language and sharpened driving dynamics inspired by the brand’s flagship luxury coupe, the LC.

The exterior styling remains as sporty as the current model, but subtle changes in the details, inspired by Lexus LC design cues, imbue it with a new-found elegance. Inside the cabin, everything from the high-quality materials to the precise layout of controls and gauges was crafted to maximize driving pleasure.

Enhancements have been made to the RC’s aerodynamics, tyres and suspension, and there are also improvements to engine response and steering feel, all of which reflecting the “sharper and more refined” drive philosophy that was introduced by the LC. The new RC is more stable than ever under a wide variety of driving conditions. This provides a high level of driver confidence and a reassuringly flat ride quality, making the coupe an ideal grand tourer, whether you’re negotiating a twisty mountain road or simply making a long-distance commute on the open highway.

ADOPTING THE SPORTY-YET-ELEGANT EXTERIOR DESIGN LANGUAGE OF THE LC FLAGSHIP COUPE

Lexus designers sought to maintain the RC’s dynamic coupe proportions, while adding a high level of elegance to the exterior. Key to achieving this was the addition of distinctive design elements, such as a new front bumper corner that flows down from the headlamps and a grille mesh pattern comprising shapes which gradually transform from top to bottom, creating an intriguing visual tension. The vertical arrangement of the extra-small triple LED headlamps and new L-shaped LED clearance lamps add to the car’s more distinguished appearance.

Air ducts have been added to the corner of the rear bumper, resulting in better handling stability and enhanced overall driving response. A wider stance and lower centre of gravity reflect the car’s high ability to maintain grip in different road conditions. The rear combination lamps now house more pronounced L-shaped lenses that are a new signature design feature for Lexus coupes.

In all 11 different exterior colours will be available for the RC, including Flare Yellow and Sky Blue, shades which perfectly communicate the car’s dynamic nature.

The new RC F SPORT features the same grille mesh pattern that graces all Lexus F SPORT models, together with many other custom exterior and interior items that are exclusive to this special grade. These include powerfully styled 19-inch alloy wheels, inspired by those used by the LS and LC luxury flagship sedan and coupe.

DRIVING PLEASURE HEIGHTENED BY INTERIOR REFINEMENTS

A brushed treatment has been applied to the heater control and audio panels, generating a higher sense of quality, while the knee pads either side of the centre console have been made larger and raised higher, creating a greater sense of space in the front of the cabin. The driver’s palm rest has been reshaped and a stitching pattern has been added to the surface, showcasing the designers’ high attention to detail.

A new analogue clock, identical to the one in the LC, sits high on the instrument panel in another identifying feature of Lexus coupes.

New ornamentation options, including real aluminum Naguri and Brushed Metal will be available for the RC F SPORT. In all, RC customers will have five options to choose from.

Interior colours include Ochre, which is also featured in the LC, and Mustard , which comprises subtle yellow accents on a black background. Seven interior colour combinations will be available, including those reserved for the F SPORT.

 “SHARPER AND MORE GRACEFUL” DRIVING CONCEPT

Adopting the driving concept of “sharper and more graceful” that defines the LC, Lexus engineers have aimed at making the new RC thoroughly fun to drive by focusing their attention on the details, such as enhancing the car’s aerodynamics and fine-tuning the suspension system and powertrain. Endowed with a flatter and more stable ride quality and sharper handling characteristics derived from the LC, the new RC is more athletic and responsive than ever.

Enhanced aerodynamics, achieved with details such as a new fin shape in the side window mouldings and a duct in the rear bumper, give the car better handling stability.

New 19-inch wheels shod with higher-grip tyres support excellent steering response. New shock absorbers, which provide significant damping force from low suspension stroke speeds, and stiffer suspension bushings have also been introduced. The new RC underwent extensive real-world testing, with chassis engineers constantly fine-tuning performance, to improve ride and handling.

Throttle response from the turbocharged 2.0-litre engine has been improved to deliver a more direct feeling of acceleration and a more spirited driving experience.

The new Lexus RC will make its world debut on October 2 at the Paris Motor Show.