My recent drive around the Monticello Motor Club in the 2015 Lexus RC still has me pondering all the possibilities Lexus->ke47 could throw at its new two-door coupe. TopSpeed has already reported Lexus’ hints at a four-door version->ke4751 of the car, but then the idea struck about a drop-top version. It makes perfect sense, so just follow along.

See, the RC’s chassis is a mishmash of sorts. It’s front clip, engine cradle, and suspension supports are borrowed from the GS sedan. The rear section is from the new IS sedan. But the middle section is pulled off the aging IS C, Lexus’ 2+2 hardtop convertible. Now with that stiff center section acting as the RC’s foundation, plus the serious bracing Lexus put in the chassis’ middle section, it seems completely possible for the RC->ke4751 to get a convertible version.

The idea becomes even more plausible when considering Lexus could replace the old IS C convertible with the RC Convertible. Development and engineering costs would be minimal as the majority of the work should already be done. Lexus’ customer base then gets a new hardtop convertible that could come available with the F Sport and track-ready F packages. That puts Lexus in line to compete with the BMW M4 Convertible and Audi RS 5 Cabriolet.

The RC Convertible would span all trim and powertrain levels, so expect the base RC 350 to get the topless treatment too -- just as our rendering shows. Expect the RC Convertible to debut for the 2016 model year if the project gets the go-ahead.

Click past the jump to read more about the future Lexus RC.

2016 Lexus RC Convertible

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2016 Lexus RC Convertible
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Rendering

Competitors

2015 BMW M4

BMW’s new nomenclature designates the new M4 Convertible as the replacement for the old M3 Convertible. Now with its shapelier body and updated powertrain, the M4 Convertible makes a formidable opponent to the Lexus and Audi.

Power comes from a turbocharged, 3.0-liter, inline six-cylinder making 425 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. Unlike the Lexus, BMW offers a six-speed manual gearbox, and a seven-speed double clutch is optional.

Pricing for the BMW M4 Convertible starts at $73,425 and rises drastically with options.

2015 Audi RS 5 Cabriolet

Like the BMW, the Audi RS 5 Cabriolet is derived from its coupe counterpart. The Audi, however, only comes with an available power-folding soft top. That doesn’t detract from the RS 5 Cab’s performance stats though.

A 4.2-liter V-8 lies under the Audi’s hood and creates 450 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. A seven-speed DSG gearbox is the only transmission available. The Audi hustles to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds and hits a top speed of 174 mph.

The Audi does command a premium over the BMW, costing $79,200.

Lexus RC

Lexus’ newest vehicle defies the automaker’s typical traditions, breaking the relaxed and calm demeanor most ageing car buyers find attractive. In an effort to attract more youthful souls, Lexus has released the RC, a 2+2 coupe with an impressive list of powertrains, including a hybrid and a V-8-powered track star.

The RC is all-new for 2015 and showcases just where the brand intends on going. The RC will also lead Lexus back into the racing scene.

The RC 350 starts at $42,790 while the performance-focused RC F starts at $62,400.