Lexus Reveals at NAIAS in Detroit

Lexus has been taking a much more stylistically aggressive approach to design, moving away from just making comfortable crossovers and Sunday driver sedans to more fun, sporty, and otherwise drastically different designs. Recent releases such as the recent LS sedan with an aggressively large front grille and slim, sporty styling, or the 2019 UX with its compact form and sharp body lines capture this new age, super modern design. But even going back further, the releases of the LC and RC sports cars, predicated by the LFA super car released in limited quantity, predicted this future for Lexus; and now, the same vehicles that predicted the future of Lexus design continue to drive that style with all new models shown at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The North American International Auto Show and Lexus have always had a close relationship, with Lexus as a brand debuting for the first time at the show back in 1989. And now, Lexus has unveiled at NAIAS three new models for the future; two revised versions of the RC forecast for release in 2020, and the concept for the LC Convertible. The RC and LC both have seen a few different editions, including special editions such as the Structural Blue LC released in conjunction with Black Panther, and the RC F 10^th Anniversary Edition, but have yet to see any redesigns or true alterations from the core design.

The two styles of RC showcased at NAIAS include both the RC F with redesigned body styling, and an RC F Track edition. Starting with the RC F redesign, the changes are noticeable but subtle; it’s all about the devil in the details. The redesigned front bumper creates a look more reminiscent of the LC, with a smoother overall design that feels more performance oriented than previous versions with too many angled lines. Stacked micro-LEDs tucked into the corners of the sharply angled headlamps will ensure day or night, the RC can’t be missed from the front, while bolder, lengthier tail lamps wrap around the rear. Finally, new 19-inch alloy wheels round out the performance oriented RC F.

If that RC F is performance oriented, then the Track edition is insanity oriented. With a 0-60 less than 4.0 seconds, the monstrous power in the RC F Track is driven by a massive 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 472 horsepower. Specific improvements to the Track edition from the standard F include a new front spoiler, massive rear wing, BBS wheels, and titanium exhaust as well as a carbon fiber hood and roof. According to Lexus, this will be the second fastest performance vehicle ever produced by Lexus, second only to the LFA.

Finally, the all-star reveal at NAIAS was the LCC, showcasing its already stunning visuals that are only improved with a convertible top. Sadly, Lexus Chief Designer Tadao Mori hasn’t revealed what kind of top it is; however, looking at the history of Lexus designed convertibles such as the IS and SC, expect it to be a hardtop convertible. Although this will mean losing out on a bit of performance, for locations such as Kansas a hardtop model is much more convenient. No details have been released for the arrival date of the LC Convertible, as the model shown was a concept, but some expect it to arrive in 2020 or 2021 based on how many completed safety features and road required items. We here at Lexus of Wichita are hoping for sooner than later.