Lexus RC to Offer 2.0-Liter Turbo Option

Toyota Motor Corp.'s Lexus unit is adding a new turbocharged variant called the 200t to its RC coupe lineup.

The new rear-wheel-drive model will be powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 241 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The turbo-four also is available in several other Lexus models. By comparison, the standard RC's 3.5-liter V-6 generates 306 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque.

Mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission in the RC, the engine has a fuel efficiency rating of 31 mpg on the European driving cycle. Zero to 62 mph acceleration is listed at 7.5 seconds. The 6-speed automatic/all-wheel-drive option won't be available in the 200t.

A sport package includes a Torsen limited-slip differential, adaptive suspension, bolder front styling and a more upscale interior.

The Lexus RC 200t will go on sale in Europe next month and launch in the U.S. by year-end.