Sharp, Edgy Design

First Unveiling in JapanLexus "LC"is Lexus's top-tier coupe, in the same class as the flagship sedan "LS". Two units were displayed at the venue: the gasoline-powered "LC500," which had its world premiere at the Detroit Motor Show in January, and the hybrid "LC500h," which was first revealed in Breda, Netherlands in February and also exhibited at the Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland.

This model features a new FR platform and has body dimensions of 4,760mm in length, 1,920mm in width, and 1,345mm in height. Its wide and low sporty silhouette hints at its high performance. Flanking the spindle grille, Lexus's signature front face, are newly developed, ultra-compact triple LED headlamp units. The design is sharp, emphasizing short front overhangs and a low center of gravity. The rear styling also incorporates the spindle shape as a motif, strongly asserting its identity as a Lexus.

Lexus LC500

Lexus LC500

The interior, which can accommodate four occupants, uses leather and Alcantara. Attention was paid not only to the visual appeal but also to the tactile experience. The cockpit's layout and seat hold have been meticulously optimized through extensive driving tests to achieve a driving position that fosters a sense of unity between the driver and the car. The interface also adopts next-generation controls, enhancing usability.

The powertrain options are twofold: gasoline and hybrid. The gasoline-powered LC500 is equipped with the 5.0-liter V8 DOHC engine found in F models such as the "RC F". This is paired with a newly developed 10-speed automatic transmission, producing a maximum output of 475ps at 7,100rpm and a maximum torque of 54.0kgm between 4,800-5,600rpm.

500h Features Multi-Stage Hybrid System

Meanwhile, the hybrid LC500h is equipped with the world's first Multi-Stage Hybrid System. This system combines a hybrid system with two motors and a 4-speed automatic transmission, enabling control over both engine and motor output. Like the gasoline LC500, it offers sharp gear changes. The manual mode also features 10-speed shifting, similar to the LC500.

This hybrid system is paired with a 3.5-liter V6 DOHC engine, producing a maximum output of 299ps at 6,600rpm and a maximum torque of 355kgm at 4,900rpm. The integrated system output reaches a maximum of 359ps. Furthermore, the use of a lithium-ion drive battery has achieved high output and a compact size, significantly contributing to the vehicle's low center of gravity.

Lexus LC500h

Lexus LC500h

At the press conference that day, an overview of Lexus International, which had entered a new structure in April, was announced. According to President Osao Fukui, this is not a change in direction but rather an acceleration of transformation. With the addition of production and human resources departments, the organization aims to evolve into one that, while maintaining a strong focus on craftsmanship, can respond with greater speed and flexibility.

Six years have passed since the production of the "SC430," the successor to the Soarer. The long-awaited revival of the flagship coupe is scheduled for next spring.