From a visual standpoint, the Lexus LC 500 is stunning.
This luxury sport coupe, which debuted in 2018, sits low and long, and the bright red colored model really enhances its visual appeal. An optional carbon fiber roof is another cool facet for this sleek sports car. Curved and muscular, the LC 500 rear end is wider than the rest of the car.
The LC 500’s sporty appearance lures potential buyers in right away, begging one to get behind the wheel. And driving the 2021 Lexus LC 500 with its rapid shifting, smooth 10-speed automatic transmission is certainly an exhilarating experience.
The folks at Lexus decided to surprisingly equip the LC 500 with a V8 engine. Once you realize how heavy the LC 500 is – roughly 4,400 pounds – it’s understandable why Lexus decided on the V8 over a more typical V6 engine.
Although it gets some criticism from auto reviewers because it’s not as powerful and sporty as some foreign rivals, it’s unlikely most drivers will depart the LC 500 complaining that it doesn’t have enough power. Note that there’s also a V6 hybrid version of the LC 500 (not discussed here) and a convertible model was added to the mix this year.
The lone engine is a 5.0-liter, V8 that generates 471 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. The LC 500 elicits a tantalizing growl while it speeds down the road. It certainly gets there in a hurry, capable of going 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. That’s frighteningly fast for most drivers, who may feel a bit overwhelmed with that type of power.
AT A GLANCE – 2021 LEXUS LC 500
- Performance: 5.0-liter, V8, 471 horsepower
- Mileage estimate: 16-25 mpg
- Price estimate: $92,900
- Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles; drivetrain: 6 years/70,000 miles; roadside assistance: 4 years/unlimited; corrosion: 6 years/unlimited
Like most upscale sports cars, the Lexus LC 500 offers an excellent ride. The steering is quick and precise, the braking is strong, and the car really hugs the pavement when cornering at high speed or taking on a challenging country road. For 2021, the LC received minor mechanical updates to the suspension and transmission that Lexus claims will improve performance.
The LC 500 cabin is another major asset. It features an elegant layout and materials are built with extreme quality, just what one expects from a luxury brand. We loved the audio from the 12-speaker Pioneer sound system.
However, what’s not so great is the lap-top style touchpad that controls the infotainment. It’s not easy to sift through various menus while driving the car. Lexus now offers standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
The front seat sits low and provides a snug fit that’s comfortable and roomy for a sports car. Upholstered with synthetic leather, the back seat is neither roomy nor comfortable, and would be a squeeze even for young children. The trunk is diminutive as well – 5.4 cubic feet.
The 2019 Lexus LC 500 is an attractive, athletic sports car that provides considerable performance and possesses a throaty engine that adds to the driving enjoyment. We’re a little perplexed why sales are so tepid – it’s on pace for 1,150 for 2020. We suspect the roughly $93,000 price tag is the reason.
Weidel on Wheels is featured regularly on www.tahoeskiworld.com. Auto writer Jeffrey Weidel can be reached at skiweidel@gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter at @jeffweidel.
