Heavily inspired by the LF-CC concept, the RC’s front end is characterized by an oversized Lexus emblem mounted on the automaker’s trademark spindle grille and triangular headlights that display a L-shaped pattern when the low beams are on. The RC’s rear end differs from that of the concept with sharp tail lamps that again adopt a L-shaped motif and a discreet spoiler integrated into the trunk lid.

Dimensionally, the RC measures 1.2-inches wider, 1.4-inches lower and 2.8-inches shorter in wheelbase than the IS sedan on which it is based.

The RC’s cockpit offers a new Remote Touch interface that lets the driver write an address with the tip of a finger and an interior illumination pattern that reflects upwards rather than downwards.  Both making their debut on a Lexus, the Remote Touch and the lighting pattern will gradually make their way to the automaker’s other products over the coming years.

Buyers will initially be able to choose between the hybrid RC 300h and the RC 350. The RC 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that pairs with an eight-speed automatic and produces 314 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, while the RC 300h will make use of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that’s teamed with an electric motor for a total system output of 217 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The RC 300h features a CVT with six virtual gears designed to provide a sportier driving experience.

Lexus says that the RC will be offered a choice of rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive, though availability will vary by market.

A performance-focused variant of the RC dubbed RC F is expected to land in showrooms later in the production run.  Aimed squarely at the upcoming BMW M4, the range-topping coupe will utilize a 455-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 and pack technology gleaned from the automaker’s LFA program.

“Our focus is to strengthen the brand’s emotional appeal through our products and RC is another demonstration of this focus,” said Mark Templin, Lexus International executive vice president. “The emotional attachment of a coupe is found in its purity of design and its engaging driving experience, and with RC the engineers have achieved the balance.”

The RC is expected to launch in 2014.

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