Rumours of a new Lexus coupe continue with reports from Europe suggesting Lexus is planning in 2015 to debut a new two-door model.

Fuelled by the LF-CC concept unveiled at the Paris auto show last year, the rumour mill has been focused on the idea of an IS Coupe that would compete with two-door models in the 3 Series and C-Class families.That came to a head late last year, when it was revealed that Lexus had trademarked the name ‘RC’, expected to represent a coupe, convertible, or both.

This week, British magazine Autocar reported that a Lexus insider has confirmed that a team has begun development of the new model, described as an “exciting and emotional” new offering.

The new coupe is expected to feature a performance-focused hybrid powertrain, possibly using the same 252kW 3.5 litre V6 and electric motor package found in the GS 450h.

While earlier reports had suggested the larger GS might be the basis for the new model, the unnamed insider is understood to have confirmed the model will form part of the IS range – leaving the RC badge’s purpose unclear.

Perhaps the carmaker has remembered that the term “RC” has a very distinct meaning of ‘radio controlled’ and could pose problems not only in the image in customers minds that it suggests, but that it may not be enforceable as a trademark name pretty much like Microsoft learned the term ‘Windows’ was not legally enforceable as a trademark.