When Lexus->ke47 debuted the RC F,->ke4714 the new coupe->ke141 filled the gap that has been sitting vacant for some time: a two-door F model from Lexus. However, with all the other luxury automakers->ke505 going the turbocharged, small-displacement route to milk power from their performance models, can the naturally aspirated, 5.0-liter-powered RC F really keep pace with the segment?

One of my favorite video->ke278 journalists, Chris Harris, spent some time with the 2015 RC F both on the track and on public roads to see just how good Lexus’ new performance coupe was. As usual, this video has plenty of sideways action and loads of tire smoke, but Harris came away with a bit of a split decision on the RC F.

On the track, Harris noted that the RC F is a little piggish, due do the extra heft it totes around. He also noticed that it’s not as eager to let the tail end slide, and instead pushes toward the outside of the corner. Finally, with the pedal on the mat, he felt like it lacked the bite that the 2015 M4 has.

On the road, however, things are completely different, as Chris loved the 467-horsepower coupe’s road manners and its ability to become a fierce, asphalt-devouring machine at the drop of the hammer. He noted that it felt about as dynamic as most buyers would want from a road car. Additionally, and this is a biggie, he said that the interior (not to mention the exterior) looks distinctly Japanese, giving buyers something different than the typical German style that blankets the luxury car segment.

Lexus RC-F