Detroit show: Lexus spruiks possible LC sportscar

LEXUS is teasing an “unprecedented world premiere” for next week's Detroit motor show, that is strongly rumoured to be a production version of its long-in-development LC sportscar.

Based on the LF-LC concept – which stands for Lexus Future-Luxury Coupe – the striking two-door concept made its debut four years ago during the 2012 Detroit motor show and was confirmed for production in mid-2014.

The teaser image spotlights a patch of bitumen decked by set of swirling tyre tracks, hinting at Lexus' sporting intentions for its Detroit reveal.

Reports indicate the road-going LC will retain the wild styling of its concept cousin, transplanting the long bonnet, swooping roofline, trademark Lexus spindle grille and 2+2 seating arrangement into a production-ready body.

The team behind the design of the LF-LC – California-based Calty Design Research – is also responsible for Toyota's wild FT-1 2014 Detroit show concept, and both feature similar tail-light designs and sculpted rear ends with prominent rear diffusers.

Confirmed to be a luxury grand tourer instead of an outright LFA-replacing supercar, the LC will likely jostle for market position against the likes of BMW's 6 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class coupe and other larger luxury coupes.

No powertrain options have been revealed, but Lexus has previously indicated that V8 power will find its way to the front-engine, rear-drive LC, most likely the 5.0-litre atmo V8 powering the spicy RC F.

The 351kW/530Nm V8 is enough to propel the flagship RC from zero to 100km/h in 4.5 seconds, but once grafted to a bigger and likely heavier LC, expect this sprint time to rise.

Potential for a hybrid variant is also very high, with Lexus having built the LF-LC Blue concept – a hybrid version of its LF-LC – that was revealed during the final Australian International motor show in 2012.

A top-of-the-line LC F version could also be in the works, rumoured to be powered by a new twin-turbo V8 engine, but is likely to be revealed down the line.

Lexus also gave a look at a digital racing version, releasing a LF-LC GT Vision Gran Turismo to the Playstation game, which featured a livery design borrowed from RC F GT3 but no technical specifications.