Lexus Has Reportedly Made a 600 HP RC Prototype With a Manual

Exciting Build

Much has changed across the automotive landscape over the past year or so, with many automakers scaling back their pure electrification plans and instead shifting their focus to hybrids amid strong customer demand. However, Lexus seemingly remains committed to EVs - at least for now - though it also hasn't apparently given up on ICE just yet. In fact, there was a pretty interesting tidbit regarding a very cool Lexus RC prototype included in a recent video from Toyota Times that should get enthusiasts pretty riled up - in a good way, of course. 

Photos: Lexus

Copious Power

That RC prototype is reportedly powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, much like the GR Yaris and GR Corolla, and reportedly churns out 600 horsepower in this guise. That powerplant is even mated to a six-speed manual transmission, and was reportedly developed for "motorsports" purposes - though that doesn't really help explain the presence of a manual, which isn't quite as common in racing as it used to be. 

Photos: Lexus

Another One

However, the RC isn't alone in that regard either, as Lexus also reportedly showed off an IS with the same powerplant, but in that sedan, it was apparently making around 400 horsepower and mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Journalists were able to take a ride in this particular creation as well, and in the video, we can clearly hear its turbocharged four at work. 

Photos: Lexus

New Lineup

What we do know is that Lexus has been working on developing a trio of new gas engines -  a naturally-aspirated 1.5-liter, as well as turbocharged 1.5 and 2.0-liter powerplants - for some time now. It's quite clear that this pair of prototypes is a big part of that development, and journalists walked away with some interesting impressions after experiencing them firsthand. 

Photos: Lexus

Better than the 2JZ?

One journalist noted that there was almost zero turbo lag when the car was accelerating, and added that it was a rather quick and exhilarating experience overall. One Toyota engineer reportedly said that they're aiming to make an engine that's superior to the legendary 2JZ, and added that development of these new powerplants would continue to evolve over time. 

Photos: Lexus

Will It Happen?

Obviously, there's no guarantee that either of these vehicles - or their engines, at least in this guise - will make it to production, but it's certainly exciting to see that Toyota is keen to continue developing enthusiast-focused vehicles, regardless. It certainly stands to reason that fans would love the chance to buy a 400-600 horsepower Lexus coupe or sedan with a manual gearbox, but whether or not such a thing becomes reality remains to be seen. 

Photos: Lexus

>>Join the conversation about the manual Lexus RC prototype right here at ClubLexus.com.

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