Facelifted Lexus RC to appear at Paris motor show

August 30, 2018

Lexus’s rival to BMW 4 Series gets simplified design and cues from LC flagship

Lexus has revealed the facelifted RC coupé ahead of its official introduction at the Paris motor show in October.

In addition to styling alterations, Lexus has made aerodynamic tweaks to the RC, as well as revising the suspension with a view to improving ride quality. The steering has been updated, with the company claiming that it’s more feelsome than that in the pre-facelift car. The new RC is also lower to the ground and wider than before in a bid to improve handling.

The interior benefits from a greater use of plusher materials, such as brushed metal for the heater and audio control panels, while Lexus's flagship LC’s analogue clock has been grafted onto the RC’s dashboard.

Outside, Lexus has incorporated LED daytime running lights into the light clusters, while new paint colours and alloy wheel designs are available. Lexus says the LC has been a considerable point of reference for the RC’s new design, although the brand's entry-level coupé has a less concept-like appearance than the comparatively wildly styled LC.

Prices for the new RC are likely to start at around £40,000, up from the £39,150 starting price of the current entry-level RC 300h.

A reveal is confirmed for 2 October at the Paris motor show, where the RC will make its debut alongside the recently confirmed Toyota Corolla Touring Sports estate.

First deliveries of the RC start later this year, a few weeks after its Paris appearance.