Lexus LC500 & Infiniti Q60: imitators or successors?

Fed up of being intimidated in the performance coupé sector by the might of the Germans, the companies of Japan have decided to join together and launch a double-assault on the heavy-weights. And these are the cars championed by Lexus and Infiniti: the LC500 and the Q50 respectively. But, since they are separate cars, its best to address them individually.

We'll start with the Infiniti Q50. The fact that most sticks out on paper is the use of an all-new 3-litre V6, complete with twin- turbochargers. this engine manages to muster 400BHP and 350lb ft of torque. this power is delivered to the road through a four-wheel drive system which is also capable of diverting all torque to the rear, if conditions require. Furthermore, due to the clever aerodynamics of the body a drag coefficient of 0.28 exists, which prompts much admiration.Also present is a system that permits many different modes and settings, dependent on preference and/or conditions. According to Infiniti the Q50 has 'best-in-class handling and agility'. We'll see when it goes on sale later on this year.

Now, on to the Lexus LC500. A car that could be the spiritual successor of the LFA (I know I said that about the RC-F too. But that didn't turn out too well so that prize is still up-for-grabs). Unfortunately here there is no new engine, instead the same 5 litre V8 as found in the RC-F. However, this engine makes the car capable of a sub-4.5 seconds 0-60MPH time. And it boasts more power than the Q50: 466BHP and 389lb ft, to be precise. But this car is rear-wheel only, instead of adaptive like the Q50. And, because it will be a rival for the BMW M6 and the 911 Carrera S, it will have improved weight-distribution (52/48), and increased mass within the car's wheelbase.

So, here we have two fairly different cars. But, despite the differences, there is a clear and unifying purpose that ties these cars together. To place Japan back at the top of the performance coupe sector, and in doing so knock Germany and Europe of their perch. It will be a tough job but these cars have potential.

Nev