What better way to put a wrap on summer than a week behind the wheel of the 2024 Lexus LC 500 Coupe.
The flagship sports coupe for Lexus, this rear-wheel driver blends emotional design and high performance like few other cars on the road. The LC emphasizes a balance between function and comfort, sporting intent, and luxury. In my mind, that’s the perfect combination
Upon startup, the 5.0-liter, naturally aspirated V8 issues a full-throated engine note as a call to driving enthusiasts. The engine delivers 471 horsepower and 398 lb.-ft. of peak torque. The sports coupe is also capable of delivering a 0-to-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds and has a manufacturer-estimated 24 miles per gallon fuel economy down the highway.
The powerful 5.0-liter is paired with a 10-speed direct-shift automatic transmission that can be controlled via magnesium paddle shifters. This 10-speed evokes the performance of the V8 engine and provides an even more direct connection of driver to machine.
What good is power without corresponding handling characteristics? Front and rear suspension settings enhance ground contact feel, linear steering response, and steering effectiveness in the high cornering G range, resulting in nimbler vehicle handling and a sharper connection between driver and vehicle.
The available LC 500 sport package includes numerous performance elements, including Torsen limited-slip rear differential with a performance damper, performance brake pads, and Alcantara-trimmed seats.
Almost better yet is the LC 500’s looks, the most passionate expression of the Lexus brand. The eye-catching coupe displays a unique mesh grille that spreads across the front of the car. It has a large carbon fiber glass panel and blacked-out rear pillars to create a floating roof appearance. Chrome-plated moldings along the edges echo the lines of a traditional Japanese sword.
Best of all is its unique light signature at night. The tail lamps were inspired by the glow of a jet’s afterburners, and the ultra-compact, triple-projector LED headlamps also prove to be striking, along with 21-inch forged black alloy wheels and a “Copper Crest” coat of enamel.
And as one would expect, the interior does not disappoint. New to the interior this year, the LC 500 features a standard 12.3-inch high-definition touchscreen display which provides easy-to-use controls and clear information to the driver and front-seat passengers.
All models come standard with a panoramic view monitor which combines images from the front, rear, left and right-side cameras of the vehicle and displays them on the center display. Intuitive parking assist also becomes standard.
Favorite creature comforts included Cloud-based navigation, Mark Levinson premium audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Wi-Fi Connect, “Hey Lexus voice-activated commands”, and wireless Smartphone charging.
Completing the substantial LC 500 packages is a Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, which brings a suite of key active safety and convenience features to the vehicle. This system includes:
• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist
• Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection/Braking
• All-speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Lane-Tracing and Road Sign Assist
The LC 500 price tag is steep, north of six-figures. But in this case, you get what you pay for. Perpetual summer may not be unrealistic with this luxury couple.
Base Price: $98,850
Price As Driven: $107,105
Destination charge is included in base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
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