The Lexus UC is the Luxury Answer to the Toyota GT86

Expected to be powered by the same 228 HP 4-cylinder found in the GT86, the Lexus variant will take it up a notch with a hybrid system.

There is exciting news coming from Lexus about upcoming models in the pipeline. Just this week Japanese automotive news outlet Spyder7 revealed some interesting details about the upcoming Lexus UC or “Urban Coupe” model soon to hit the streets.

From what we understand so far, the UC will be based off of the new 2022 Toyota GT86 chassis- livened up with a Lexus touch.

With the new UC model, Lexus will complete a trifecta of sports coupes in their lineup, including the already established RC and LC models.

What exactly will differentiate the UC from a standard GT86? Let’s see what’s in store for this vehicle’s potential release by the end of the year.

Hybrid powertrain means more power and better mpg

It’s currently understood that this new Lexus coupe will be powered by the updated 228 HP 2.4L 4-banger found in the GT86. However, Lexus is looking to introduce a hybrid system to the engine, which will boost both power and efficiency.

In terms of transmission options, although the GT86 comes standard as a manual, it is unlikely to see a manual option for the Lexus variant.

The interior will without a doubt be an area of revamping, including a serious infotainment upgrade debuted recently in the new NX crossover. This means the UC will receive a 9.8″ touchscreen as standard, compared to the 8″ screen found in the GT86.

While we are still uncertain of many details, including the availability of this model in the U.S., we are optimistic that we will receive this new sports car stateside. Additional details including an official unveiling are to be expected by the fall.

Uncertainty show us the styling possibilities

There is no consensus yet on what the finalized UC model will look like, but there are many who have taken a shot of giving us an idea. We have gathered the best of what is currently available to get a feel for what may be coming.

Amongst those providing possible visual representations is this tweet, which displays a spy shot of a 2022 GT86 with some curious fascia changes.

Car and Driver provided us with their rendition of the UC, taking serious styling cues from the RC model.

Motor 1 did similar, providing the UC with IS 500 F-like styling.

Render design artist Sugar Design on Instagram also gave his take of the UC proving a distinguishable Lexus fascia.

While we may not know exactly what is in store for the UC sports coupe, we are excited to see what the brand will do to elevate the GT86.

We doubt it will simply be a front and rear bumper change, as Lexus is sure to make the design elements and visual approach to be truly unique to their model. We will update you guys on this topic as we learn more!

Daud Gonzalez

Hi! My name is Daud Gonzalez and I am a local Southern California car enthusiast who loves motorsport to the core. I have spent many years diving deep into modifying, building, and racing cars since beginning my journey with a 2011 BMW 335i Sedan back around 2015. Since then, I have built alongside many close friends several cars for motorsport, including several road race and drifting builds. Few experiences can replicate the full-body immersion that driving a car at the limit on a race track provides. Until that gets boring (which currently seems like never), I will remain dedicated to enjoying motorsports! Thankfully I was able to combine that passion of racing and high-octane adrenaline with another pleasure of mine: writing. I hope you enjoy reading these articles as much as I enjoyed writing them. If you are in SoCal, find me on the racetrack!