Seduction & Technology: 2018 Lexus LC 500 Coupe
Originally introduced at the 2016 North America International Auto Show in Detroit, the styling, performance and craftsmanship of the new Lexus LC 500 clearly position it as the flagship coupe of the Lexus lineup. Combining avant garde elegance with dynamic coupe proportions, the seductive form of the new LC 500 remains remarkably true to the key design elements, proportions and visual dynamism of the award-winning LF-LC concept car that inspired it.
Available in one well-equipped trim level, power is generated by a 2UR-GSE 5.0L V8 prime mover that is bolted to a sophisticated AGA0E ten-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission with paddle shift and manual mode.
Starting with a unitized steel body with steel front and rear subframes, the new LC 500 has been designed to offer customers a significantly sharper, more refined driving experience. It combines the superior ride quality befitting a flagship luxury sports coupe with an engaging, dynamic drive and a depth of character unlike that of any previous Lexus.
The LC 500 is the first Lexus to benefit from the company's all-new, premium rear-wheel drive platform; part of a new corporate global architecture for luxury vehicles (GA-L). The underpinnings of this new coupe will become the blueprint for future front-engine/rear-wheel drive Lexus models. The center of gravity has been further lowered by the introduction of numerous technical innovations which reduce the body weight of the LC 500. The extensive use of strategically located high-tensile steel body structures reduces weight, improves weight-distribution and increases body rigidity, all of which promote consistent, predictable handling behavior and sharper steering responses.
In addition, particular attention has been paid to the development of the LC 500's multi-link front suspension system, adopted to allow for the vehicle's large diameter wheels while at the same time accommodating a very low hood line. The system features two upper and two lower control arms, with double ball joints on each arm. This arrangement optimizes suspension geometry to facilitate precise control from driver inputs and road conditions, creating a more precise steering response.
Inside the passenger cabin, the all-new interior design of the LC 500 reflects the exterior design theme of dynamic luxury with a cabin that combines all the elegance, quality and sophistication of a Lexus premium coupe with high driving pleasure and comfort for passenger. Whilst the front passenger area is shaped to spread out towards the front, creating a comfortable and welcoming space, the driving position has been painstakingly created to invite spirited driving, and promote driver confidence through an intuitive control layout and ergonomic excellence.
All information displays have been carefully arranged in order of importance by their proximity to the driver's sight line. The instrument binnacle itself houses a variation of the innovative driver's meter with moving center ring from the LFA, and the center console features a next-generation touch pad for the Remote Touch Interface (RTI).
The Lexus multimedia package debuts with the LC, and features faster, more flexible software enabling future enhancements and an updated graphic user interface. Listeners will also be treated to an exceptional audio experience inside the cabin: in addition to the available audiophile-worthy Mark Levinson audio package, a new premium Pioneer audio system comes as standard equipment.
Dimensions & Specifications
Wheelbase: 113.0; overall length: 187.4; width: 75.6; height: 53.0
All vehicle measurements are in inches.
Engine: 5.0L V8 – 471 hp at 7100 rpm and 398 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
EPA Fuel Economy: 16 city/26 highway
Cargo capacity: 5.4 cubic feet
Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual front seat knee airbags, dual front/rear head curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, traction control, vehicle stability control, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, all-speed dynamic cruise control, vehicle dynamics integrated management, intelligent high beam, lane keep assist, lane departure alert with steering assist, LED daytime running lights, HomeLink programmable garage door opener, navigation system, door side impact beams, power door locks with anti-lock out, Siri Eyes Free, SmartAccess keyless entry with push-button start, Lexus Enform Remote, vehicle theft-deterrent system, and direct tire pressure monitoring system.
Optional safety features include limited slip differential, head up display, blind spot monitoring and intuitive park assist.
Warranty
Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile
Powertrain: 6-year/70,000 mile
Corrosion: 6-year/unlimited
Roadside Assistance: 4-year/unlimited 24-hour
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2018 Lexus RC 500 Coupe starts from $92,000. Destination charges add $995.