Lexus LC 500 2018

2018 Lexus LC 500

Key specs of the base trim

Overview

The Good

• Retains much of the styling from the concept
• Headlight and taillight units are sharp and attractive
• Very comfortable materials in the cabin
• Large screens on the dashboard
• Front grille design is highly detailed

The Bad

• Backseat is unusable, even by children
• Visibility is poor
• Interior design not as dramatic as exterior

What to Know

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2018 Lexus LC 500 Review

from the Cars.com expert editorial team

The 2018 Lexus LC 500 can be a whopping $105,000, but it works – it’s really good, and that Grand Touring name fits it perfectly.

The LC 500 puts form over function, excelling as a touring car rather than a sports car.

Others go faster and drive better, but nothing in the luxury field turns heads like the LC 500.

I didn’t think I was superficial; I prefer a car that drives well and looks unexceptional over the opposite. But then I met the new 2018 Lexus LC 500, and I began to question a few things.

The Lexus LC 500 isn’t a sports car. It’s heavy, doesn’t steer all that well and has a happy back end that gets twitchy when you push it. But it’s absolutely fantastic as a grand tourer — quiet, with a big engine and a well-appointed interior. In fact, I can’t think of another car I’d rather take a road trip in (provided I could fit all my luggage in the tiny coupe trunk). But none of that really matters because, I mean, look at it.

Now look again. I’ll wait.

The LC 500 competes against luxury sports/touring cars like the BMW 650i, Mercedes-Benz SL450 and Jaguar F-Type. Compare the LC 500 against those vehicles here.

Pricing for the Lexus LC starts at $92,995 (including destination charge). The LC only comes in one trim, but with plenty of options and none of the exclusivity of the LFA. Our test vehicle also had a Performance Package With Carbon (which ads a carbon fiber roof and high-dollar leather seats) and a color head-up display that pushed its sticker price to $103,895.

Stylin’ and Profilin’

If you don’t like being stared at, do not buy this car.

This is the first Lexus in quite some time to evoke real desire (especially in this wonderful red paint that Lexus calls “Infrared”), and it seems to have this effe. Show full review

I didn’t think I was superficial; I prefer a car that drives well and looks unexceptional over the opposite. But then I met the new 2018 Lexus LC 500, and I began to question a few things.

The Lexus LC 500 isn’t a sports car. It’s heavy, doesn’t steer all that well and has a happy back end that gets twitchy when you push it. But it’s absolutely fantastic as a grand tourer — quiet, with a big engine and a well-appointed interior. In fact, I can’t think of another car I’d rather take a road trip in (provided I could fit all my luggage in the tiny coupe trunk). But none of that really matters because, I mean, look at it.

Now look again. I’ll wait.

The LC 500 competes against luxury sports/touring cars like the BMW 650i, Mercedes-Benz SL450 and Jaguar F-Type. Compare the LC 500 against those vehicles here.

Pricing for the Lexus LC starts at $92,995 (including destination charge). The LC only comes in one trim, but with plenty of options and none of the exclusivity of the LFA. Our test vehicle also had a Performance Package With Carbon (which ads a carbon fiber roof and high-dollar leather seats) and a color head-up display that pushed its sticker price to $103,895.

Stylin’ and Profilin’

If you don’t like being stared at, do not buy this car.

This is the first Lexus in quite some time to evoke real desire (especially in this wonderful red paint that Lexus calls “Infrared”), and it seems to have this effect not only on me but on lots of other folks, as well. I was engaged by more onlookers while driving this vehicle than I have been in anything else I’ve tested. People driving by in everything from hybrids to minivans would lean on the horn as I went by and offer a quick thumbs-up or a few choice expletives to communicate their thoughts.

Lexus’ spindle-shaped grilles have inspired both admiration and consternation, and as time has gone by, they’ve gotten more and more spindly. I don’t think the design works with all models, but on the Lexus LC 500 it matches the rest of the bonkers styling details perfectly. And if you get up close to the grille, you can see that the mesh widens out the farther you get from the large Lexus logo in the center.

That speaks to the remarkable attention to detail given to every part of the exterior, from those crazy LED projector headlamps to the chrome detailing dripping from the taillights — even the weirdly attractive shape of the side mirrors.

How does the LC 500 drive? That’s a bit more complicated.

How It Drives

Let’s start with what Lexus nailed: the engine and transmission. Instead of going the forced-induction route that so many luxury automakers are taking, Lexus stuck with a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V-8 that makes 471 horsepower and 398 pounds-feet of torque. It’s one of the quicker-revving rear-wheel-drive V-8 engines I’ve come across, which is helpful because maximum torque doesn’t kick in until 4,800 rpm. Power delivery in this Lexus LC is super smooth, with none of the jumpiness that can result from a turbocharger.

Lexus also did a fantastic job with the engine note. Flip the stalk to the right of the instrument panel to Sport S Plus, and the active exhaust system opens up fully, treating you (and everyone around you, it should be noted) to a delightful roar with an appropriate burble on quick downshifts. Don’t want to wake the neighbors? The other drive modes tone down the audio to more reasonable levels.

Before driving the Lexus LC, I was a bit wary. I’ve had some experience with Lexus’ eight-speed automatic transmissions in the past, and those have been … frustrating. But the 10-speed automatic (the only transmission available in the LC coupe; sorry manual fans) was surprisingly delightful. It held gears at the right times in regular and aggressive driving, shifted quickly when using the paddles and was responsive to throttle inputs.

The all-new LC 500 also features a standard adaptive suspension that is intended to give the LC 500 a bit of a dual nature: comfortable and sporty. But the suspension definitely trends more in the comfortable direction. Even with the LC 500 in Sport S Plus, its most aggressive setting, there’s still a good amount of body roll and a tendency to understeer when pushed hard into corners.

This is due in part to the sheer size of the LC: It’s a big car. At 187.4 inches long, it’s about 10 inches longer than a Chevrolet Corvette (which is big in its own right) and has a substantial curb weight of 4,280 pounds. That’s a lot of mass to pull through a corner, and even with the adaptive suspension dialed all the way up, it struggles to keep the car balanced. The LC 500 is much more at home on straighter roads, where the engine gets to breathe and the suspension isn’t as taxed.

The Lexus LC’s ultimate destiny lies as a touring car. And it excels at that mission, with plenty of power underfoot and a very comfortable ride. I can’t think of another car right now that I’d rather do 300 miles in.

Fuel economy ratings are 16/26/19 mpg city/highway/combined on premium gasoline.

Interior and Cargo

A deft hand when it comes to interior materials and design means the LC 500 more than lives up to its hefty price tag.

One feature of the Lexus LC 500 reminded me of the Corvette’s cockpit: a prominent handle on the center console that gives the passenger something to grab if things go sideways.

The multimedia infotainment system has a 10.3-inch widescreen display that sits prominently atop the dash. There’s a large touchpad mounted low in the center console, where the driver’s right hand rests, that required a large learning curve to use, but I did ultimately find it better than the “mouse”-based system Lexus uses in some of its other vehicles. My biggest issue with it is that it requires you to look at the screen quite a bit to make inputs — more so than some touchscreen-based systems. With the touchpad, I found myself looking at the screen frequently when using it to see which buttons were highlighted and what I was selecting. My instinct was to treat it almost like a mouse cursor on a laptop — fine in that application, but it made me nervous when driving.

Two rear seats are present, but they don’t really do anything — not even a child will fit back there. Cargo room is also at a premium, as the trunk measures only 5.4 cubic feet. I was able to fit one larger piece of luggage in back, but no way could you fit two. That’s what the backseat is for, I guess.

Function Follows Form

A philosophy of modernist architecture states that the form of a building should follow its function. Structure comes first, then the look and shape of it should bend to fit that function. The LC 500 flips that convention on its head: Everything else about the car — including its literal backseat — takes a backseat to how it looks, and rightfully so. It’s art.

Yes, the driving experience is a bit uneven and there isn’t much practical space outside the two front seats. Those shortcomings did nag at me from time to time, but then I’d walk up to the LC 500, see it sitting there, and my mind would go blank. Apparently I’m superficial, and this is my ruby-red, V-8 kryptonite.

Editor’s note: This review was updated on September 8, 2017, to reflect that the LC 500 comes with a standard adaptive suspension.

2020 Lexus LC

Experience A New Realm of Performance

Experience A New Realm of Performance

Experience the Lexus LC 500 and LC 500h. Daring in conception, powerful in performance, and true to the spirit of the LF-LC Concept that inspired it, the Lexus LC marks a new phase of amazing, and the next step in Lexus’ design and performance revolution.

The Sounds and Rhythms of Breakthrough Performance

Colours

• Exterior
• Interior

Colours may vary by model. Visit Build & Price for more information.

Colours may vary by model.
Visit Build & Price for more information.

Gallery 13 images

Highlights

LC Walkaround Video

Take a comprehensive tour of the LC’s performance, design and features

Watch the LC walkaround video now

STAY CONNECTED LIKE NEVER BEFORE

Lexus LC Supports Apple CarPlay™

Learn more about Lexus Enform

Never Stop Evolving

From the circuit to the street, Lexus continually pushes the limits.

Watch the LC Performance Video Now

Models

• 10-speed direct shift automatic transmission
• Premium rear-wheel-drive luxury platform
• Enform audio with Safety Connect and Destination Assist; also works with Apple CarPlay™
• Available Performance Package
• Standard Lexus Safety System+
• New Bespoke White Interior

• Premium rear-wheel-drive luxury platform
• World’s first multi-stage self-charging hybr >Multistage transmission with ‘M’ mode
• Enform audio with Safety Connect and Destination Assist; also works with Apple CarPlay™
• Lexus Climate Concierge
• Standard Lexus Safety System+

competitive comparison

Compare Lexus LC models to competitors.

owners reviews

Find out what Lexus owners have to say

2020 LEXUS LC

Build Your LC

Explore LC Features

1. Navigation System
The Navigation System is designed to assist in locating an address or point of interest. Discrepancies may be encountered between the system and your actual location. Road system changes may affect the accuracy of the information provided. Rely on your common sense to decide whether to follow a specified route. Detailed coverage not available for every city or roadway. Periodic updates available at an additional cost. See your Navigation System Owner’s Manual for further details. Navigational systems in some vehicles are available with bilingual capability.

2. Backup Camera
The backup camera does not provide a comprehensive view of the rear area of the vehicle. You should also look around outside your vehicle and use your mirrors to confirm rearward clearance.

3. 835-watt
Continuous average power, all channels driven, at less than 0.1% THD; 20–20,000 Hz.

4. Satellite Radio
Functioning Satellite Radio requires a compatible receiver and monthly service fee. Please see your Lexus Dealer for further details. Reception of satellite signal may vary depending on location.

5. Net HP
Maximum output indicates engine plus HV battery output.

6. Horsepower @ RPM, Torque @ RPM
Ratings achieved using the required premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher.

7. Top Track Speed
Performance figures are for comparison only and were obtained with prototype vehicles by professional drivers using special safety equipment and procedures.

8. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and if applicable Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) are electronic systems designed to help the driver maintain vehicle control under adverse conditions. They are not substitutes for safe driving practices. Factors including speed, road conditions and driver steering input can all affect whether VSC and VDIM will be effective in preventing a loss of control. Please see your Owner’s Manual for further details.

9. Brake Assist
Brake Assist is designed to help the driver take full advantage of the benefits of ABS. It is not a substitute for safe driving practices. Braking effectiveness also depends on proper brake-system maintenance and tire and road conditions.

10. Pre-Collision System
The Pre-Collision System is designed to help reduce the crash speed and damage in certain frontal collisions only. It is not a collision-avoidance system and is not a substitute for safe and attentive driving. System effectiveness depends on many factors, such as speed, driver input and road conditions. Please see your Owner’s Manual for further information.

11. Tire Pressure Monitor
The Lexus Tire Pressure Monitor alerts the driver when tire pressure is critically low. For optimal tire wear and performance, tire pressure should be checked regularly with a gauge; do not rely solely on the monitor system. Please see your Owner’s Manual for details.

12. Airbag Systems
All the airbag (“AB”) systems are Supplemental Restraint Systems. All ABs (if installed) are designed to inflate only under certain conditions and in certain types of severe collisions: frontal and knee ABs typically inflate in frontal collisions; side and side curtain ABs in side collisions; Roll-Sensing Curtain ABs at a severe tilt degree, roll or lateral G-force. In all other accidents, the ABs will not inflate. To decrease the risk of injury from an inflating AB, always wear seatbelts. Do not use a rearward-facing child seat in any front passenger seat. Please see your Owner’s Manual for further information/warnings.

13. SmartAccess
The SmartAccess system may interfere with some pacemakers or cardiac defibrillators. If you have one of these medical devices, please talk to your doctor to see if you should deactivate this system.

14. Smart Stop Technology
Smart Stop Technology operates only in the event of certain simultaneous brake and gas pedal applications. When engaged, the system will reduce engine power to help the brakes to bring the vehicle to a stop. Factors including speed, road conditions, driver input can all impact stopping distance. Smart Stop Technology is not a substitute for safe and attentive driving and does not guarantee instant stopping. Please see your Owner’s Manual for further details.

15. Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control was designed to assist the driver and is not a substitute for safe and attentive driving practices. Please see your Owner’s Manual for important cautions and instructions.

16. Driver Attention Monitor
The Driver Attention Monitor is designed to alert the driver if a potential hazard is detected ahead and the driver’s face appears to be turned away. It is not a collision-avoidance system and is not a substitute for safe and attentive driving. System effectiveness depends on many factors. Please see your Owner’s Manual for further information.

17. Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL)
Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats can help reduce the extent of whiplash in certain types of rear end collisions.

18. Night View
Night View is designed to alert the driver to objects beyond the projected light of the low-beam headlamps. Driver should only glance at image occasionally. Factors including cold weather and the vehicle’s air conditioner may limit the effectiveness of the system.

19. Blind Spot Monitor
Do not rely exclusively on the Blind Spot Monitor System to determine if a lane change is safe. Always look over your shoulder and use your turn signal before changing lanes. There are severe limits to the function, detection range and clarity of the monitor system. For a complete list of limitations and directions regarding use of the monitor system, please see your Owner’s Manual.

20. Mark Levinson ®
Mark Levinson is a registered trademark of Harmon International Industries Inc.

21. iPod ®
iPod is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. All rights reserved.

22. Bluetooth ®
Lexus tests certain Bluetooth ® capable phones for compatibility with Lexus vehicles. Please see your Lexus Dealer for details. Note that the recommendation of Lexus is not a warranty of the performance for any phone and that some problems may occur with any type of handset based on the phone software version or the service coverage available in your area. Some vehicles equipped with Bluetooth ® technology are available with bilingual capability.

23. HomeLink ®
HomeLink ® is a registered trademark of Johnson Controls.

24. HAC & DAC
DAC is designed to help the driver maintain vehicle control and speed on steep downhill descents. HAC is designed to help minimize backward rolling on steep ascents. These suggestions are not a substitute for safe driving judgment and practices. Factors including speed, grade, surface conditions and driver input can all affect whether DAC and HAC will be effective in preventing a loss of control. Please see your Owner’s Manual for further details.

25. Dual Screen Rear DVD Entertainment System
A single disc DVD player is standard on vehicles equipped with the dual-screen Rear-Seat Entertainment System. A separate DVD player or game system utilizing the centre console’s video/audio inputs is required in order to use the split-screen function.

26. Wireless Headphones
Headphones are for passenger use only. Do not use while operating vehicle.

27. Wide-view Front and Side Monitor
The Wide-view Front and Side Monitor does not provide a comprehensive view of the front and side areas of the vehicle. You should also look around outside your vehicle and use your mirrors to confirm clearance. Cold weather will limit effectiveness and view may become cloudy.

28. TORSEN ®
TORSEN ® is a registered trademark of Zexel Torsen, Inc.

29. Roof rack (LX)
Roof rack capacity is 130 lb. Crossbars are not recommended for luggage.

30. Towing
Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up properly and you have any necessary additional equipment. If gross trailer weight is above 5,000 lb (2,268 kg), it is necessary to use a weight-distributing hitch with sufficient capacity. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions and cautions from your trailer-hitch manufacturer and vehicle Owner’s Manual. The maximum amount you can tow depends on the total weight of any cargo, occupants and available equipment.

31. Intelligent High Beams
The Intelligent High Beam headlamps can help improve vision at night. However, conditions such as a dirty windshield, rapidly changing light conditions or hilly terrain will limit effectiveness so the driver may need to manually change the high beams from on to off.

32. Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Do not rely exclusively on the Rear Cross-Traffic Alert System. There are limitations to the function, detection and range of the system. You should also look around outside your vehicle, over your shoulder and use your mirrors to confirm rearward clearance. For a complete list of limitations and directions, please see your Owner’s Manual.

33. Lane Departure Alert (LDA)
Lane Departure Alert: Lane Departure Alert is designed to read the lane markers under certain conditions, and provide visual and audible alerts when lane departure is detected. It is not a collision-avoidance system or a substitute for safe and attentive driving. Effectiveness depends on many factors. See Owner’s Manual for more information

34. Automatic High Beam (AHB)
Automatic high beam feature can help improve vision at night. However, conditions such as a dirty windshield, rapidly changing light conditions or hilly terrain will limit effectiveness so the driver may need to manually adjust the highbeams from on to off. Please see your Owner’s Manual for details.

Тест-драйв Lexus LC 500

О красоте, комфорте и непрактичности рассказывает наш автоэксперт Кирилл Бревдо

Тест-драйв Lexus LC 500

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