It's not often that being proved wrong is an enjoyable experience, but that's exactly the case with the Lexus RC F. The second teaser image released recently, showing just a bonnet scoop, led us to think it may be providing air for a turbocharged engine. The M3/M4 is doing it after all, and the next C63 will be turbocharged as well.
Getting air in won't be a problem then
But no, the Lexus RC F will be powered by an atmospheric 5.0-litre V8. Moreover, power is officially stated at 'well above 450bhp', which would put the RC F comfortably ahead of the M4's 430hp. The engine is described as the most powerful Lexus V8 ever; note there it isn't the most powerful Lexus engine period, meaning it must be somewhere under the 560hp produced by the LF-A's fabulous V10.
Lexus is promising 'asphalt-grinding performance' from said V8, which should accompany the 'uncompromising grit' of the styling just nicely. This really isn't made up, we're not that good.
Over the standard RC the F gains an even more dramatic spindle grille, unique 19-inch wheels and a bonnet that is set higher than the standard models to create 'a powerful, flared profile true to the ethos of Lexus's F model'. It looks a little fussy from here, but it certainly won't go unnoticed.
Big seats, big wheel, big power too
An active rear spoiler rises at 50mph and disappears again below 25mph. There are also ducts beneath the front bumper and wings plus the now-trademark Lexus stacked tailpipes to mark out the RC flagship. They look real from here too, unlike the IS F.
Inside, the RC F gets unique dials, seats, pedals and steering wheel. Lexus says the instrument panel is dominated by a central dial 'which automatically adapts in line with the four different driving modes'. Presumably this means the display will switch a la LF-A with the tacho taking priority in the racier settings. The shift paddles indicate the RC F is an auto, probably an eight-speed as found in other Lexus models.
The RC F will be fully revealed by Lexus on 14 January, where a price and UK sale date will most likely be announced too. RC F vs. M4 vs. C63 sounds like a fascinating triple test, don't you think?