LOOKING at the RC range from Lexus you would be entitled to think that we are entering the new age of the coupe.
The reason being that this premium arm of the Toyota Corporation has delivered not only one of the best-looking coupes I have seen for years but also one of the most modern with its 300h hybrid.
The hybrid has proved to be the most popular choice in the coupe range and although not as exciting to drive as the petrol 200t version it is ultra-smooth, silent and very economical.
Lexus has been in at the start of hybrid development and this concept to reality offering in the sector takes the manufacturer into new territory.
Now Lexus has a model that can take on German opposition head on and is one of those cars that has to be driven to be really appreciated.
Although a large car, you have to understand that it is a sports coupe and consequently rear seating is tight and boot space is small. But for two people it is a dream.
Lexus's plan is to sell four times more examples of the petrol-electric RC 300h than the petrol version.
The powertrain is typically Lexus. It has the same 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and electric motor combination you'll find in the GS, IS and NX models.
A 0-62mph sprint time of 8.6 seconds is respectable with power being fed a CVT transmission.There is a case for awarding best looks in class to the RC 300 because in the style stakes it leaves much of the opposition in the shade.
The 300h offers more of a traditional laid-back grand tourer experience to be savoured and enjoyed rather than pure performance. It is also rear-wheel drive which adds to the experience of motoring in the grand style.
Power comes courtesy of a 2.5-litre petrol engine, electric and a battery working in tandem, which combine to produce 220bhp. Not an enormous amount of power for a car like this, but more than enough to provide driving enjoyment with 118mph available and a pocket pleasing Combined economy figure of 56.5mpg to savour.
On the inside the RC 300h is luxurious and comfortable, with a feeling of quality throughout.