The Lexus LC is the Japanese automaker’s best performance car since the iconic LFA, but people want more. More specifically, customers have been calling for an even-faster version and the marque appears to be working on such a model that could premiere before the year is out.
The current LC range consists of the LC 500 and the LC 500h. The former features a 5.0-liter V8 with 471 hp at 7100 rpm and 368 lb-ft (539 Nm) of torque at 4800 rpm. This old-school, 5.0-liter naturally-aspirated V8 is perhaps one of the finest engines on the market but Lexus is working on something even more special.
While recently attending a Lexus drive event in the United States, CarBuzz was told by Lexus International strategic communications senior manager Moe Durand that “something big is coming to LC this year.” Durand failed to provide additional details about what exactly he was talking about.
However, there are one of two conclusions which can be drawn. The first is that Lexus will launch a convertible version of the classy sports car, a vehicle which was previewed earlier this year in concept form.
Another, that a hot LC F is just around the corner. CarBuzz reports that Lexus quickly flashed a photograph of an LC test mule during a presentation for the RC F Track Edition. Apparently, this test mule looked very much like the LC F prototypes spied in the past.
It remains to be seen what powertrain the LC F could feature, but Lexus could go down a variety of different routes. For starters, there is talk about the brand’s 5.0-liter V8 being supercharged to 600 hp. Other reports state that a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 is in the works, while some point towards a powerful hybrid V8. Whatever the case may be, we’re excited.
In a statement issued to Carscoops regarding the LC F, the automaker replied that it doesn’t comment on speculation about future products.