Lexus LC F trademark hints at flagship performance coupe

Uncovered by overseas title Autoguide, the European-market trademark could be little more than a responsible step to safeguard the LC F name from other brands, but fans will be hoping for a new super coupe offering more than the LC500's already compelling 350kW and 530Nm 5.0-litre V8.

However, a report last year with industry journal Automotive News suggested we won't see an LC F until a new powertrain is revealed, because the company's naturally aspirated 5.0-litre engine is not well suited to turbocharging.

But, if the company changes its criteria for what should drive an F model, its new twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 could be a potential starter.

Revealed with the new LS500 limousine at this year's Detroit motor show, the engine offers 310kW and a Lexus V8-beating 600Nm of torque. Could this mill's output be dialled up to surpass the 5.0-litre engine? Quite possibly. After all, the 2.9-litre turbo six in the new Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio offers a mean 375kW.

A performance tuned hybrid could also be on the cards, going beyond LC500's output and, of course, easily surpassing the 264kW combined output of the LC500h and its electric motor plus 220kW 3.5-litre V6 arrangement.

In that scenario, the V8 engine might be paired with an electric motor and battery to boost power beyond 400kW.

Power aside, an F-tuned LC model would likely dig deep for some weight loss, with the regular models weighing between 1935 to 1970kg. That said, with an electric motor and battery on board, the F model could even gain weight rather than lose it.

Watch for more on the anticipated LC F to surface in the coming year.

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