Lexus LC500 Convertible: Where Elegance Meets Instinct
LEXUS LC500 Convertible | The Lexus LC500 Convertible
Lexus Adds Convertible to LC500 Lineup, Introduces Minor Revisions
On June 18, Lexus announced the addition of the open-top "LC500 Convertible" to its flagship sports model, the LC500, with sales beginning July 15. In conjunction with this, a special edition "LC500 Convertible Structural Blue" will be offered in a limited run of 60 units. Revisions have also been made to the coupe model, enhancing its performance.
Text by HARA Akira
An Unparalleled Experience to Stimulate the Senses
The development of this convertible was driven by Toyota President Akio Toyoda's desire to "cultivate a driving experience that, in addition to elegance, stimulates the unique instincts of the LC." Lexus Chief Engineer Yasushi Mutoh commented, "To clearly express the LC's unique worldview in the convertible as well, we adopted a soft top to achieve a sense of lightness and openness, along with styling that is instantly recognizable as an LC convertible. Furthermore, by meticulously considering a comfortable space for everyone, we've created an experience where one can enjoy driving while feeling the pleasant seasonal breezes and the harmonious, sensual engine sound. We aim to deliver this unparalleled, sense-stimulating experience to our customers."
The LC500 Convertible features a soft top with an automatic opening and closing mechanism and a retractable tonneau cover. It can be opened or closed even while driving at speeds below approximately 50 km/h, with the operation taking just 15 seconds. Inspired by the "three-fold letter" technique, the movement is divided into three steps: "start," "middle," and "end." By incorporating a slight pause at the beginning and end of the movement, while maintaining a smooth rhythm without abrupt speed changes, an elegant and natural motion is achieved.
The roof switch is located within the palm rest, allowing for intuitive operation by aligning the direction of the switch tilt with the roof's movement. The roof's operation is displayed on the multi-information display.
The body's beltline and rear contours have been meticulously designed with aerodynamics in mind to ensure natural conversation within the cabin while enjoying the open-air experience, a key appeal of a convertible. A wind deflector is installed to maintain quietness.
Furthermore, Lexus Climate Concierge automatically controls the air conditioning, seat heaters, neck heaters, and steering wheel heaters to maintain comfort. Active Noise Control (ANC) is also employed to enhance the emotional engine sound by reducing unpleasant low-frequency noise.
In addition, a sound generator that resonates intake sounds into the cabin and an external valve that produces a more powerful exhaust note are also equipped, similar to the coupe model.
The powertrain consists of a 5.0-liter V8 "2UR-GSE" engine paired with a Direct Shift-10AT. Lightweight and highly rigid aluminum die-cast rear suspension tower blades, underfloor race-joining sections, and rear performance dampers contribute to a refined ride and excellent dynamic performance.
Additionally, based on the LC500 Convertible, a limited edition of 60 units, the "LC500 Convertible Structural Blue," will be offered, featuring a dedicated "Structural Blue" exterior color and "Limestone" interior, inspired by a blue cave. 40 units will be available for priority pre-order by existing owners, with the remaining 20 units offered through a public lottery. Applications will be accepted via the web starting June 18.
LC500 Convertible "Structural Blue"
LC500 Convertible "Structural Blue"
LC500 Convertible "Structural Blue"
Pricing is set at 15 million yen for the LC500 Convertible and 16.5 million yen for the LC500 Convertible "Structural Blue."
Concurrently, for the coupe LC500 and LC500h models, to achieve a "unified driving feel," unsprung weight has been reduced by 3.7 kg through measures such as aluminum front suspension lower arms, hollow rear stabilizers, and lighter disc wheels. The responsiveness of the AVS suspension control has been enhanced, and Active Cornering Assist (ACA) for understeer control has been newly adopted. For the gasoline model, driving force characteristics during everyday use have been improved, while the hybrid model benefits from increased drive force due to amplified torque assist from the motor.
Inquiries
Lexus Information Desk
Tel. 0800-500-5577 (9:00-18:00, open 365 days a year) https://lexus.jp/
