Is this Lexus's BMW M4 rival?

This is the wheel of a Lexus. It is a fast wheel. We know this because it is (a) a large, lightweight, expensive-looking alloy wrapped in low-profile rubber and (b) flanked by an ‘F' badge, the letter Lexus reserves for only its very hottest creations.

Officially, we know no more than that. This teaser shot, released today by Lexus, previews a new ‘F model' concept to be revealed at the Detroit show in January. Beyond that, Toyota's posh division is staying schtum.

Unofficially, we'd bet a decent chunk of cash that it's a teaser shot previewing the RC-F, a V8 super-coupe based on Lexus's recently announced RC two-door, with styling inspired by the lovely LF-LC concept.

We're told the RC-F will likely get a revised version of the barnstorming 5.0-litre V8 that did service in the IS-F, likely producing a fair chunk more power than that car's 417bhp. 

With all that power reaching the rear wheels alone, that would put the RC-F in toe-to-toe competition with the upcoming BMW M4, a car that'll be revealed in production form very, very soon.

Can a tyre-immolating, Predator-faced Japanese coupe really take the fight to BMW's irritatingly brilliant M Division? We'll find out in January. Hopefully.

Classic clip: Jeremy tests the BMW M3 against Lexus's IS-F