2019 Lexus RC revealed; designed much like the bigger LC

KUALA LUMPUR: The present Lexus RC did need a major upgrade as it has been in the market for a long time without being thoroughly facelifted. Even as it received a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine in 2015 and a special "F" variant in 2017, any major overhaul was kept out of the equation.

However, this does not mean that the company has abandoned the RC completely as we have just had the 2019 version unveiled. The new updated model will be making its first public appearance at the Paris Motor Show later this year. And since this would be a proper facelift, it will get a complete overhaul in terms of the aesthetics, driving dynamics, and a tweaked interior.

This 2019 Lexus RC two-door coupe has been inspired by the bigger grand tourer LC. And since it has taken inspiration from the elder sibling, it looks much like its small version. Aesthetically, it gets a new mesh spindle grille design up front, L-shaped DRLs, restyled headlamps, and a slightly refreshed bumper. Plus, a lot of visuals have changed at the rear too and there are new air ducts at the corner of the slightly revised rear bumper and attractive-looking L-shaped tail lights.

The cabin is highly inspired by the bigger LC grand tourer. The centre console gets analogue dials behind a steering wheel that is smaller in its diameter. Even the seats are slightly redesigned.

Lexus hasn’t let out any word on the exact mechanism specification yet. However, it is most likely to retain the same 2.0-litre turbocharged engine from the outgoing model along with the bigger but naturally-aspirated 3.5-litre V6 power plant. Yet, we aren’t sure whether the special F trim will be added in the lineup or not.

That said, Lexus did say that the 2019 RC will get a much better engine performance mated to a refined steering. The suspension will be on the stiffer side and will have new shock absorbers.