Lexus will be bringing an ‘unprecedented’ world debut to the upcoming 2016 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. No visual in this teaser image on its website except for some skid marks, which hint at a performance model.
Our guess is a production version or a near-production prototype of the Lexus LF-LC concept that debut four years ago at the same venue. That red sports car stunned not just us, but the design pros too, so we’re hoping that the production version will retain the showcar’s boldness. Lexus followed up with an Opal Blue version of the LF-LC later in 2012.
In December 2014, Lexus trademarked the LC 500 and LC 500h nameplates in the USA, Canada and Australia, which point at two possible powertrain options – a big NA engine (470 hp 5.0 litre V8 from the RC F?) and a hybrid version that could pair a V6 with an electric motor. A car with the LC’s looks would be a great flagship for Lexus’ F brand, so an ‘LC F’ could be down the line.
A couple of months ago, camouflaged mules were spotted undergoing testing in Germany alongside the Porsche 911 and BMW 6 Series, possible benchmarks for the Japanese 2+2. We’ll know very soon if this mystery car is the LC as Detroit starts next week. Stay tuned!
GALLERY: Lexus LC prototype spyhshots
GALLERY: Lexus LF-LC concept
GALLERY: Lexus LF-LC Blue concept
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