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Lexus LC 500

Lexus Brings a Convertible to the Gorgeous LC 500 Line

November 19, 2020 by admin 1 Comment

Drop-top fun comes to Lexus’ range-topping sport coupe.


2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible


We’ve been anticipating a convertible variant for the breathless LC 500 line and now it’s here. Lexus’ range-topping sport-touring coupe that debuted in 2018 along with a hybrid version, now claims a drop-top version to round out the model line. Notably, it’s fast, seductive, and very expensive. That said, the LC 500 Convertible just may be the right choice for individuals who love all things Lexus and desire a “wind in the hair” driving experience.


2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible Review


Lexus prices the 2021 LC 500 Convertible from $101,000 to $119,800, plus a $1,025 destination charge. Two trims are available: Standard and the limited-edition Inspiration Series. The LC 500 is a rear-wheel-drive model that seats up to four.


2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible
2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible


Exterior

We’re familiar with LC 500, having previewed this model in Hawai’i in February 2017. Test drives of the coupe and hybrid gave us an excellent opportunity to understand the workings of this amazing coupe. We appreciate that Lexus drew elements from the LFA sports car for this design. Moreover, it’s a fitting model to slot above the RC coupe.

Why we won’t rehash what we said here and here regarding the design elements of the coupe, the main difference between it and the convertible is obvious with the soft-top roof.

From its profile, the LC soft-top with the roof up is attractive, but it is with the roof down that its allure rises substantially. We think a hard-top roof would have presented a better look as it did with the now-retired IS, but that’s not the avenue Lexus chose when imagining an LC convertible.

With a white body and black roof, the contrast was evident – it offers a tease of what’s to come with the roof down and is a can’t miss siren to its loveliness. The LC is a head-turner of its own right, but the closed soft-top roof delivers a double-take, especially for anyone familiar with the coupe. From the rear, it’s even more impressive and inviting – who can resist any convertible on a lovely day, particularly one matching the LC’s design acuity?

The list of standard exterior features includes arrowhead LED daytime running lights with triple projector LED headlamps, heated side mirrors, puddle lamps, flush door handles with illumination upon opening, 20-inch wheels, four-wheel power-assisted disc brakes, a wind deflector, and a windscreen.

Individual options include 20- or 21-inch forged alloy wheels and a carbon-fiber door scuff plate. A windshield wiper deicer is bundled with a heated leather-trimmed steering wheel.


2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible


Interior

Lexus’ spec sheet shows seating for four, but this car is ideal for two. We’re not sure why Lexus felt the need to add a rear seat – perhaps to help owners with insurance – but there is little room for anyone back there. Even small children would find the space confining with a car seat or booster seat not able to overcome the sheer lack of legroom.

We found the front seats comfortable and supportive with ample adjustment possibilities ensuring the right fit. Between the highly adjustable driver’s seat and the equally adjustable power tilt-and-telescopic steering column, there wasn’t much concern about comfort and drivability. Heating and cooling elements are always welcome. However, we think Lexus missed an opportunity to include massaging.

Perhaps the most impressive feature of the drop-top LC is the mechanization of the convertible roof. While we can certainly wish for a drop-down hardtop, the soft-top went beyond our expectations in its operation.

Indeed, the workings are simple from the driver’s perspective with singular switch-control activation via a panel located between the seats just ahead of the armrest/storage compartment and behind the tech scratchpad. Lift the cover on the compartment and there are two switches available. The first one manages the entire roof fall and rise activity along with the windows, while the second one raises the rear quarter windows that the first switch only drops down.

Here’s how the roof switch works: pull the switch toward you and hold it. Observe how the roof automatically disengages from the windshield – there are no release levers to manage – and the windows roll down while a portion of the trunk raises up to receive the folding roof. Stay steady with your finger and the entire process is completed within 15 seconds. Importantly, the roof can retract while on the go – at speeds up to 31 mph. Just keep an eye on the rear-view mirror and take note of the arms that move into place to receive the roof before the trunk lid pops secure into place. The process is done when the instrument panel notification indicates that it is done.

The roof reconnects the same way as long as the switch is pushed toward the front of the car. Again, the process completes automatically with only the rear quarter windows remaining down. We’re not sure why activating the second switch is required to close the windows, especially as those windows drop with the initial roll down. It might be a safety issue to ensure that the windows are flush once the roof reconnects.

The list of standard interior equipment includes keyless entry with push-button start, a leather interior, aluminum pedals, 10-way power front seats with power lumbar support for the driver, a power tilt-and-telescopic steering column, LED interior lights, and stainless-steel scuff plates.

Upgrades outside of the Inspiration Series trim includes a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, semi-aniline leather seats, and embossed headrests. Also, Lexus offers a climate concierge with upper body heating. This means you can drive with the top down on a cold day thanks to neck heaters.


2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible


Tech

There’s no shortage of high-tech items gracing the LC. That’s to be expected for Toyota’s luxury marque. And more so with a six-figure sports model.

Specifically, the standard audio package comprises 12 speakers, HD Radio, satellite radio, and rear-mounted speakers. Further, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility come standard. Lastly, Lexus Enform apps, Wi-Fi, Siri Eyes Free, two USB ports, and navigation round out the standard features.

There are a few options available including a 13-speaker Mark Levinson audio system ($1,220) and a head-up display ($900).


2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible


Safety

Toyota Motors is big on standard safety features and Lexus doesn’t disappoint. The LC comes with automatic high beams, a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane-keep assist with lane-departure alert, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. An automatic parking system is included.

If you’re concerned about rollovers with a convertible, you should be. Especially when the roof is down and protection is scant. That said, a pair of active roll bars rise into place behind the rear seat, mitigating a likely disaster without them in place. They’re not a substitute for smart driving, but they are useful for potentially saving lives.


2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible
2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible


Performance

Powering the LC 500 is a 5.0-liter V8 engine with 471 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. No turbochargers, no superchargers, just straight up natural aspiration. Power routes to the rear wheels utilizing a 10-speed automatic transmission. Steering wheel-mounted paddles shifters are included.

Though not a lightweight model (weighing approximately 4,500 pounds), the LC 500 moves forward with authority. Upon ignition, the engine lets out a roar with a whoosh emitting from the rear. Under full throttle, the sport exhaust system supplies an outstanding soundtrack – natural and loud.

With the top down, riders enjoy the full sound experience – it reminds us of the note that was once a staple of Detroit machines. It’s a scream we never tire of – in part because it drills down into every fiber of the body. Also, it often surprises people not familiar with this model. “Did a Lexus just do that?”

The LC checks off all the right boxes – a comfortable ride, excellent steering, and wonderful handling. Wide tires, a strut-and-multilink suspension system, and an available Torsen limited-slip differential with adaptive dampers ($460) keep it on track. On twisty roads, the LC is entirely at home as it effortlessly moves forward. It’s a strong corner taker too as it slithers in and out with no brake action required.

Our lone area of disappointment is the lack of a manual transmission. We understand that the take rate would most likely be low, but Lexus misses an opportunity to put a signature on what’s an otherwise stellar model. Just as Toyota found a way to bring back the GR Supra (with BMW’s help), we think the LC would benefit by adding a 6-speed manual – a fitting exclamation mark on the entire line.


2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible


Competitive Set

The LC 500’s segment comprises two- and four-passenger models. As with the LC, most rear seats are in rival models are also useless.

Among the competing models are the BMW M850i, Jaguar F-Type, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, and the Porsche 911. Other models worth shopping includes the Chevrolet Corvette and Nissan’s GT-R.


Our Recommendation

The available Inspiration Series drives up the final price by about $20,000. That’s a spend-up we’re not keen on, but it carves out exclusivity for the 100 buyers in the U.S. who might opt for one. The “structural blue” paint scheme, carbon fiber door sills, 21-inch forged wheels, and white interior are gorgeous though.

Stick with the base model and perhaps opt for the head-up display and the limited-slip differential. They’re the only options you’ll need, bringing your final price to a cool $103,000 or so.


2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible


2021 Lexus LC500 Convertible


  • Sticker price from $102,025
  • Price as tested: $110,000 (est.)
  • Seats four
  • Engine: 5.0-liter V8 gas
  • 471 horsepower @ 7,100 RPM
  • 398 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,800 RPM
  • 10-speed automatic transmission
  • Wheelbase: 113.0 inches
  • Length: 187.4 inches
  • Width: 75.6 inches
  • Height: 53.2 inches
  • Passenger volume: 85.2 cubic feet
  • Storage volume: 3.4 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: NR
  • EPA: 15/25/18 mpg city/highway/combined
  • Premium gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 21.7 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 4,540 pounds
  • IIHS safety rating: NR
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 48 months/50,000 miles
  • Powertrain warranty: 72 months/72,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 72 months/unlimited miles
  • Vehicle assembly: Motomachi, Japan

See Also — First Look: 2018 Lexus LC500 and LC500h

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 10-speed transmission, 2021 cars, convertible, coupe, Lexus, Lexus LC 500, rear-wheel drive, SPORTS CAR, Toyota, V8 engine

Behind the Wheel of a Lexus LC 500

February 22, 2017 by admin 5 Comments

A Hawaiian driving adventure includes the LC 500h.

2018 Lexus LC 500h.
2018 Lexus LC 500h.

Apart from the LFA exotic car, Lexus has had few performance models to show for it. In more recent years, however, various “F” versions of the IS, RC, and GS have emerged, underscoring this luxury brand’s performance credentials.

As good as the RC F coupe has been, it isn’t a match for the best models out there. Sure, the RC F’s 0-60 mph time is about 4.4 seconds, but it isn’t speed alone that defines the top end of the market. Here, you need excellent driving characteristics along with top-end luxury features to compete among the best — what Lexus recognizes as international grand touring coupes.

Enter the 2018 Lexus LC 500.

Global Architecture for Luxury Vehicles

The next series of performance cars from Lexus sport the LC badge. The LC 500 is the standard model; the LC 500h is the hybrid. Although the engines and hybrid powertrain seem familiar, what’s new is the vehicle’s platform.

That platform is officially known as the global architecture for luxury vehicles (GA-L). Lexus says that it will serve as the blueprint for other models, including the full-size and next-generation 2018 Lexus LS sedan.

Although coy about what Lexus’ models would follow, company PR folk hinted that others are already in the works. Figure that the midsize GS sedan is up next, followed by the IS line and perhaps the RC.

The RC is somewhat of a question mark here as its place in the Lexus hierarchy doesn’t seem certain. Then again, Lexus stressed that the near $30,000 price difference between the RC F and the LC 500 demonstrates that there is much room for the lower cost model. Thus, this guy believes the RC will be around for the long haul.

2018 Lexus LC 500.
2018 Lexus LC 500.

Larger, But With Lightweight Materials

Critics should carefully study what Lexus is serving up in its GA-L platform. Numerous lightweight materials are in place, including high-strength steels, lightweight forged aluminum control arms, and even a lighter transmission. Although at 4,240 pounds it weighs nearly 300 pounds more than the RC F (weighing in at 3,958 pounds to be exact), the LC 500 is 5.5 inches longer between the wheels, 2.2 inches longer from bumper to bumper and 3 inches wider.

Where rear legroom is terrible in the RC F, it is somewhat better in the LC 500. Yes, you could place a pair of people in the back seat if you had too. Personally, I would have preferred a 2-seat design instead of the 2+2 layout. Once again, Lexus did not consult me before locking down the final design….

Standard or Hybrid Models

You get two powertrain choices with the LC Series starting with the familiar 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine making 471 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. Married to an all-new 10-speed automatic transmission, the combination ensures a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds, matching the lighter and smaller RC F.

The transmission is lighter than the outgoing eight-speed automatic and Lexus says that the lower five gears shift fast to move the sleek coupe with ease. Slip the transmission into sport mode and you’ll have steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters at the ready. No manual gearbox is offered, but there is a certain level of driving connection realized when working the paddles.

The other powertrain choice is none other than a hybrid. Yes, that’s right: this performance model offers a hybrid variant, but don’t be dismayed: where the gas model has a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds, the hybrid comes in at 4.7 seconds.

The 2018 Lexus LC 500h is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with a pair of electric motors at the ready. The first engine acts as the primary generator and also functions as the engine starter and engine speed controller.

The second electric motor drives the rear wheels and supplies regenerative braking. An 84-cell lithium-ion battery pack stores electricity and sends energy to the wheels or to the engine, as needed.

2018 Lexus LC 500h.
2018 Lexus LC 500h.

All-New Multi Stage Hybrid Transmission

Interestingly, the LC 500h has what is known as a multi stage hybrid transmission — in addition to the planetary gear set up familiar elsewhere, the new transmission adds a unique four-speed transmission. When working in tandem, the two gear sets alter output in four stages across the V6’s power range. Further, the system allows for more electric assist at lower speeds and can move this luxury coupe at speeds up to 87 mph with the gasoline engine turned off.

This means the hybrid is not simply powerful, but it is efficient: Lexus says the LC 500h makes 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. Compare that to the LC 500 and its 16 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway ratings.

Do you think Lexus should have thrown its resources into diesel technology as have other luxury manufacturers? The power and efficiency edge of the hybrid system should have you considering otherwise.

A Matter of Style

I’ve heard all kinds of opinions about the current Lexus styling convention, so nothing surprises me. Typically, the spindle grille is the prime topic, followed closely by the pronounced body sculpting, especially in the front fascia.

Lexus’ spindle (hourglass) grille is pronounced in the LC Series, but there is one difference this year: a greater concentration of honeycomb is evident in the upper portion of the grille. Take a look at this machine from the front and you might imagine a distinct waterfall look when viewing the grille from top to bottom.

2018 Lexus LC 500.
2018 Lexus LC 500.

The luxury sport coupe has a pronounced athletic stance from bumper to bumper with the deeply raked windshield, high beltline, and a sloping roof line. Large ducts direct air into the rear tires, moving across the tire sidewall to enhance straight-line cohesion and steering responsiveness.

From the rear, the raised deck is highlighted by a decklid spoiler, double boomerang tail lights, and stacked exhaust inlets.

A Sporty, But Elegant Interior

Inside, you’ll find Lexus’ designers carefully went over every square inch of the cabin to deliver a sophisticated design replete with high-end materials. Hand-stitched leather, Alcantara door panel trim, and magnesium alloy paddles are present.

The position and height of the driver’s seat, the location of the steering wheel, and the layout of the controls provide a driver-centric cabin with excellent forward sight lines. Lexus not only supplies ample hip bolstering up front, but the shoulders are bolstered too, effectively cosseting the driver and front seat passenger. Where some sport seat styles can prove wearisome, I found these seats were very comfortable as they took the pressure off the lower back while offering balanced support everywhere else.

One matter about the LC 500 had me baffled as our team of media experts left the grounds for roads far, far away. And that was the location of the drive mode select position. Instead of being located between the seats at the base of the stack, Lexus placed it on the outside of the instrument panel. As soon as I found it, I made the adjustment from normal to Sport S+ to enhance the transmission shift points and to allow the baffles to open under acceleration.

The LC 500 features Lexus’ most recent audio, navigation, and connectivity technologies. A new multimedia package is present, offering an improved graphic user interface with upgradeable software. This means as Lexus rolls out subsequent updates, you won’t be left behind. As before, a Remote Touch Interface touchpad is present. Rounding out the major tech features is an exquisite sounding 12-speaker Pioneer audio system.

2018 Lexus LC 500

On the Road

Unless you’re driving locally there is no reason not to have Sport S+ mode selected when driving the LC 500. The engine responds quicker, shift points are closer, and the exhaust system sings its praises.

Be prepared to move away from a dead stop with authority. I, for one, am glad that Lexus did without any type of boosting — turbocharger or supercharger — when developing this model. The naturally aspirated V8 throws down ample power and continues to do so as you build speed. You can sense the transmission responding in kind as the rear wheels turn.

Would all-wheel drive have been beneficial here? Possibly. Then again it would also add weight. Our carefully curated Hawaiian roads were ideal for testing this coupe’s capabilities as we drove from sea level to well over 3,000 feet. The coupe hangs with the twisties, but our only regret is that the state’s roads have speed limits ranging mostly from 45 to 55 mph. We also learned that the local police drive their own vehicles, plunking a big blue light on the roof to pull over speeders. Not wanting to fund the island’s economy in a big way, we chose to ease up on the pedal. And yet, whenever we could punch it, we certainly did.

Taut steering and the coupe’s low center of gravity mean this model is most definitely a driver’s car. All models come with 20- or 21-inch wheels set within Michelin Pilot Super Sport or Bridgestone Potenza S001 run-flat tires. A highly rigid suspension combined with reduced vertical stiffness results in a handling gem and a comfortable ride.

As for the hybrid, the big surprise was the amount of power coaxed out of the V6 engine and the electric motors. By itself, the V6 wouldn’t deliver the expected power for this sports coupe, but with its hybrid enhancement, full power isn’t too far off from what the V8 delivers.

2018 Lexus LC 500

Parting Thoughts

The LC Series will officially inaugurate the GA-L platform. That’s the good news. The bad news is that production only begins in March and the first models won’t arrive in the states until June at the earliest.

Furthermore, Lexus is allocating just 400 models per month in the US, with the ability to expand production to perhaps 500 units. Lexus says that half of the LC’s build capacity is set for the US market, with the rest of the world claiming the other half.

The small number, however, seems in line with what demand is likely to be. After all, the LC 500 retails for $92,000 and the LC 500h starts at $96,510. Add $995 for destination and handling.

However, final prices can push above $100,000 if the Sport Package with Carbon is chosen ($7,000 in the LC 500; $5,400 in the LC 500h). Choose the Performance Package with Carbon and you’ll pay $10,000 or $8,790 in the hybrid. Thus, in the LC Series we have Lexus’ first mass production six-figure sports car. What we also have is a statement making model, underscoring once and for all that Lexus’ is losing its “boring” label.

2018 Lexus LC 500h.
2018 Lexus LC 500h.
2018 Lexus LC 500.
2018 Lexus LC 500.
Lexus LC 500.
2018 Lexus LC 500.

2018 Lexus LC 500

2018 Lexus LC 500

2018 Lexus LC 500

2018 Lexus LC 500

2018 Lexus LC 500

2018 Lexus LC 500

2018 Lexus LC 500


Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All Rights Reserved.


See Also — Performance Beast: 2017 Jaguar F-TYPE SVR Coupe

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 10-speed automatic transmission, 2018 cars, global architecture, grand touring coupe, Lexus LC 500, Lexus LC 500h, LUXURY CARS, rear-wheel drive

First Look: 2018 Lexus LC 500 and LC 500h

February 14, 2017 by admin 7 Comments

Lexus’ all-new sports car tops 100K, fully loaded.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Lexus introduced the LS500 and LS 500h to media at the
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai on the island of Hawaii.

I’m on location today in Kailua-Kona, on the Big Island of Hawai’i for the national press reveal of the 2018 Lexus LC 500 and LC 500h sports cars. It seems like a long time coming for the official reveal of this halo luxury sports coupe, but it is finally here.

My full review won’t be shared immediately. Instead, I’ve taken numerous photos and am sharing these along with model highlights today.

Production Starts March 2017

The day began with Lexus sharing background information about the LC 500 and the LC 500h. The vehicles on hand were pre-production models; production starts this March in Japan. It’ll probably be April before the first vehicles arrive in US dealer showrooms. Initially, each Lexus dealer will be given just two models.

Why the limited release? Because Lexus expects to sell just 400 units per month with 10 percent of that number comprised of hybrids. The US market accounts for half of all Lexus sales. Europe, China, and Japan are among the remaining markets.

2018 Lexus LC 500.
2018 Lexus LC 500.

Hybrids, Not Diesels

Like Toyota, Lexus routinely releases a hybrid variant along with the gasoline model. You won’t find a diesel in the US fleet, but that’s not a bad thing. Lexus has chosen to with hybrids to offer a high-efficiency model and does so without the drama some diesel manufacturers have experienced in recent years. Audi is a prime example.

The standard engine in this 2+2 luxury sports car is a 5.0-liter V8 with 471 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Lexus estimates a 0-60 mph time of just 4.4 seconds and fuel economy of 16 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Also available is a 3.5-liter V6 engine, part of a hybrid system found in the LC 500h. The LC 500h delivers 354 total system horsepower and has a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds. Lexus estimates that this model will get 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

2018 Lexus LC 500.
2018 Lexus LC 500.

Pricing and Options

You can consider the LC 500 and LC 500h as mono-spec models, but each one offers sport and luxury packages. The V8 model costs $92,000 and the hybrid comes in at $96,510.

Add in the destination charge and a package upgrade and the hybrid will top $100,000. That’s a price point Lexus hasn’t reached previously with a regular production sports car. The LC is also about $30,000 more than the RC F, but these are two very different models — the LC is based on Lexus’ all-new rear-wheel drive platform, while the RC is related to the IS line.

Lexus Spokeswoman

Lexus is pulling out all the stops with its new LC line and that’s why they hired actress Minnie Driver as a spokesperson. The brand made a splash with a commercial in Super Bowl LI and they’ll be bringing the LC Series to key events over the coming months in Florida, California, and Texas. Although expected sales will be small compared to models such as the highly popular RX SUV, the LC introduces a new Lexus platform with the improved driving dynamics that go with it.

2018 Lexus LC 500h.
2018 Lexus LC 500h.
2018 Lexus LC 500h.
2018 Lexus LC 500h.
2018 Lexus LC 500h.
2018 Lexus LC 500h.

2018 Lexus LC 500

2018 Lexus LC 500

2018 Lexus LC 500

2018 Lexus LC 500

2018 Lexus LC 500

2018 Lexus LC 500

2018 Lexus LC 500

2018 Lexus LC 500

2018 Lexus LC 500

2018 Lexus LC 500

2018 Lexus LC 500


Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All Rights Reserved.


Lexus B-Roll of the 2018 LC Series

http://autotrends.org/images/LC%20500%20Additional%20B-Roll%20Final.mp4

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: 10-speed transmission, Hawaii, Lexus LC 500, Lexus LC 500h, luxury, Minnie Driver, rear-wheel drive, SPORTS CAR

Production Reality: 2018 Lexus LC 500

January 15, 2016 by admin 3 Comments

2018 Lexus LC 500 sports car.
Production reality: 2018 Lexus LC 500 sports car.

Four years is a long time to go from concept car to production vehicle.

Typically, a car manufacturer teases a concept it intends to build and approves it for production within the year. For example, in the case of the Chevrolet Bolt introduced at the Detroit auto show (NAIAS) last January, it was green-lighted for production before the start of the Chicago Auto Show the following month.

Toyota has teased us with a handful of concept vehicles down through the years, including the fetching FT-1, a delicious sports car some still hope becomes the all-new Toyota Supra. Notably, on the Lexus side of the house we’ve seen the LF-LC, a product dangled before us at the 2012 NAIAS. That concept is now a production reality and comes to us in the form of the Lexus LC 500, a provocative high-end sports car introduced at the 2016 NAIAS.


2018 Lexus LC 500.


Approved From the Top

The Lexus LC500 was approved by Akio Toyoda, Chief Branding Officer and Master Driver for Lexus. Toyoda is the scion of the same family that founded the automaker — substitute the “d” for the “t” and you have Toyota. Moreover, he is also the man who said more than four years ago that “our cars should be fun to drive.” That’s an understatement!

Toyoda made his earlier pronouncement even as the company was enjoying much success with nameplates such as the Corolla and Camry pacing sales. But that leadership came at a cost — most enthusiasts considered these models as nothing less than rolling appliances, devoid of passion. Toyoda understood that his cars needed to be changed and initiated a process that has since yielded sportier versions of its most popular products.

The Lexus LC 500 does something else — its gives Lexus a flagship sports car to join its two other flagships: the LS sedan and the LX SUV. Both the sedan and the SUV have helped pace the marque, but the excitement factor belongs entirely to the LC 500.

Now back to Mr. Toyoda: “A few years ago, we decided to guide the future of the brand with products that had more passion and distinction in the luxury market. This flagship luxury coupe’s proportion, stunning design and performance make a strong statement about our brand’s emotional direction and will grow the Lexus luxury appeal globally.” Emotive sells cars as does quality and reliability. The latter two points Lexus has long owned.

Can you sense the excitement?


2018 Lexus LC 500.


Supplying Performance Cred

Certainly, Lexus has made some strides in recent years in an effort to up its performance credibility. In particular, the IS Series now has a turbocharged four-cylinder to showcase, providing a much-needed alternative to the base and slow-as-molasses 2.5-liter, V-6. Further, the RC F delivers to us a taste of what Lexus has in a sports car. Yet, the RC F is merely a luxurious competitor to such pony cars as the Ford Mustang — something more was needed.

The LC 500 gives us a 2+2 sports car with an athletic countenance, a copious spindle grille, and generously apportioned wheels — that’s an understatement: the wheels simply look enormous.

Its sleek roofline melts into the rear deck, the beltline rises and zooms back to meet the edge of the roof. This sports car not only is fast, but its visage looks the part.

2018 Lexus LC 500.

Seating for Four, Room for Two

Like the RC F, the LC 500 offers token room for two in the rear. Figure that you’ll use that area to belt down a bag or two. Indeed, one look at the rear and no one will volunteer to squeeze into the back.

As for the cockpit, Lexus says that it is both driver-focused and elegant. But the same assessment can be said for the RC F.

Notably, “the driver’s hip point was engineered to be as close as possible to the vehicle’s Cg (Center of gravity) where feedback from the car is the most communicative to the driver.” That’s a feature common to high-end sports cars, one that provides the ultimate in driver satisfaction.


2018 Lexus LC 500.


High-Performance V-8 Power

Under the hood is a high revving rendition of the engine found in both the RC F sports coupe and the GS F sports sedan. This 5.0-liter, normally aspirated V-8 engine will be paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission “with shift times rivaling those of a dual-clutch transmission. The component is smaller and lighter than some current 8-speed transmissions.” Lexus estimates that the all-aluminum powerplant will actualize 467 horsepower and 389 foot-pounds of torque. Importantly, an under 4.5-second 0-to-60 mph time is anticipated.

The new Lexus model is more than a year away from arriving on the market. When it does launch, it will be a 2018 model. By then, we’ll have pricing information — expect it to come in somewhere above $100,000; we’ll also have full model details.

Meanwhile, Lexus faithful should rejoice as the brand receives what is destined to become a world class performer. Certainly, it is a late arrival, but an altogether welcome one at that.


2018 Lexus LC 500.


See Also

Honda Ridgeline Strikes Back!

Behind the Wheel of a Lexus LC 500

Photos copyright Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Filed Under: New Models Tagged With: 10-speed automatic transmission, AKIO TOYODA, Lexus LC 500, luxury, rear-wheel drive, SPORTS CAR, Toyota, V-8 ENGINE

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