Lexus Pulls the Covers From its LF-C2 Concept

Lexus LF-C2 Concept (Credit: © Lexus)

Back when Lexus previewed the LF-C2 concept, I speculated that it was going to be a preview to the RC Convertible. Now that the lights have been turned on and we can see the LF-C2 in all of its glory, I am 100-percent certain that it will soon be the inspiration behind the RC drop-top. From the front three-quarter view it becomes painfully obvious that this design study is more than what Lexus claims it to be. Then when you look at its dimensions — 185.6 inches long, 72.4 inches wide and 54.5 inches wide — and compare them to the RC’s dimensions, you’ll see that they are oddly close to one another. In fact, the LF-C2’s width is identical to the RC’s. I see what you’re doing here, Lexus, and I love it…

But onto the concept. Lexus revealed this drop-top GT car with a stunning multi-layer paint process that includes a coat of primer, then silver coated with a clear coat, and then topping it off with the brilliant yellow that you see in the images. This process allows the car to have that striking yellow look in most lighting conditions, but also have tinges of silver shining through in certain lighting.

Lexus LF-C2 Concept (Credit: © Lexus)

Up front is an experimental version of the Lexus spindle grille that looks a whole lot like the RC F’s grille. This extra-large spindle piece is made up of braided mesh, which allows it to almost change shapes from different angles. Flanking this new grille are triangle-shaped LED headlights, which have become a sort-of signature for Lexus’ sporty cars, and massive air inlets for the front brakes. Out back there are more air vents that act as cooling ducts for the brakes and direct air out through the rear diffuser. The rear also features Lexus’ signature L-shaped taillights to further point toward the potential production of this new convertible.

Lexus LF-C2 Concept (Credit: © Lexus)

On the inside, things are luxurious and sporty, as expected. The cabin features a back-to-front center console that originates from the rear deck and sweeps all the way up to the dash, supple leather seats and soft-touch surfaces, a simple dashboard, a central video monitor controlled by a remote touchpad, and a thick, leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Lexus didn’t get into the LF-C2’s drivetrain or its production future, but I think it’s safe to say that barring a terrible public reception, this will eventually become the RC Convertible. Besides, it is about time for Lexus to replace the aging IS Convertible.