Cars & Autos | Friday 30 September, 2016 3:55 am |

Lexus has unveiled a dramatic race car based on the all-new LC 500 - well ahead of the luxury coupe's arrival in showrooms around the world.

Striking body work for the LC 500 race car incorporates boldly widened fenders, muscular skirts, large spoiler and rear diffuser and multiple vents for downforce and heat extraction.

These features enhance the flagship coupe's aerodynamic shape, dramatic curves and wide, imposing stance while retaining the distinctive Lexus spindle grille and L-shaped lights.

With a minimum weight of 1,020kg, the lightweight race car will be powered by a 2.0-litre direct-injection four-cylinder turbocharged engine driven through a six-speed sequential gearbox.

The LC 500 - originally designed as a grand touring coupe - is readily adaptable for racing with fitment of the enhanced aerodynamic package, weight reduction measures and race-spec powertrain. 

Testing of the race car is expected to start next month with the new coupe making its race debut in Japan's Super GT500 series during the next year, replacing the Lexus RC F in the series.