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Considering the most recent mainstream Lexus sports cars are the IS 250C and SC 430 hard-top convertibles, you could argue the signs aren't promising for the RC 350 to be something truly special.
But a new architecture, a strong V6 engine, decent dynamics, some potent styling inside and out and unquestionable value make this a car worth remembering – for the right reasons.
Lexus wants your love, not just your respect. Being quiet and classy is no longer good enough. It wants to step out the shadows, crash the Euro-party and get funky.
Enter the RC 350 coupe, which goes on sale in Australia in November, the vehicle (literally and figuratively) by which Toyota’s luxury brand wants to establish an emotional connection with potential luxury sports car buyers.
There are other Lexus signatures in RCs; a beautifully stitched together interior using fine materials. The front seats are really comfortable and supportive, the instrument panel informative and individual. The switchgear stepping down the centre stack including the electrostatic temp controls are recognisably Lexus, as is the deep console dividing the driver and his companion. The new touch-pad system (that replaces a mouse) works well, but will take time to adjust to.
But passengers taller than small children will never adjust to the RC’s rear seat. It is simply too squished back there. Obviously Lexus hired the Porsche bloke who packages the rear seats for the 911 to come over and help with the RC. At least they're split/folding, which means the compact 366-litre boot becomes much more generous.
The driving reality is calmer and more rational than that. But hey, it’s hard to go from shy and retiring to the life of the party all in one go.
Site: Motoring
