A seriously cool coupe which is only let down by its tricky-to-control tech.
It’s rare that we see a concept car make it to full production with minimal changes, but with the Lexus LC 500 – on the exterior at least – things are different. It’s an almost carbon copy of the futuristic LF-LC Concept, and that means it looks absolutely fantastic.
With prices starting at $92,200 (£75,595) the future certainly doesn’t come cheap, but walking up to the LC 500 and sliding into the driving seat does soften the blow.
That said, considering the price tag, the Lexus LC 500 is lacking in one area – in-car tech. While on the outside it still looks like a futuristic concept car, the infotainment feels like a bit of a blast from the past.
However, with a naturally aspirated V8 under your right foot you won’t need a heap of tech to keep you entertained.
As is already probably clear, the Lexus LC 500 looks stunning. It’s cutting edge design, powerful, low stance and sizeble 21-inch wheels ensures it’s a head turner as it rolls down the street.
The door handles are flush with body, and pop open like tiny wings when you unlock the car, allowing you to open up the large door.
There’s a cheekily hidden small spoiler too, which automatically deploys at speeds above 50mph, providing additional stability – although you’ll find a button in the cockpit to open it at lower speeds if you wish.
Under the hood we had a 5 liter, naturally aspirated V8, which means not turbo or supercharger and thus no lag in acceleration when you put your foot down, plus it makes a great sound.
It’s connected to a 10-speed automatic transmission which allows you to glide along with very little effort, however a manual gear select can be adopted using the paddle shifts located just behind the steering wheel.
Lexus also offers the LC 500 as a hybrid, with a 3.5 liter V6 combined with an electric motor for more efficient and environmentally-friendly driving.
