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Lexus 2024 LC 500: Keeps getting better

Lexus 2024 LC 500.

 

 

Lexus' flagship sports coupe, the 471-hp V8 LC 500, gets updated technology and convenience features, new colors, an improved suite of standard safety features, and a Bespoke Build option for 2024. Available also as a hybrid, the two-door grand tourer combines luxe design with thrilling high performance like few other cars on the road. There's a convertible option too.

The LC 500 boasts a 5.0-L naturally aspirated V8 that provides 398 lb-ft of peak torque. It is capable of delivering a 0-to-60 mph time of 4.4 sec and gets a manufacturer-estimated 24 mpg on the highway. It has a 10-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission that can also be controlled via magnesium paddle shifters.

Lexus 2024 LC 500.

 

 

The coupe's dynamic handling characteristics are enabled by front and rear suspension settings that 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. An 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.

The LC 500h features Lexus' Multi-stage Hybrid System that teams the gasoline engine with two electric motors. This option has an Atkinson-cycle 3.5-L V6 gasoline engine that utilizes D-4S direct fuel injection for optimum efficiency, while the lightweight valvetrain with Dual VVT-i ensures ample torque across the engine speed range. The system keeps the planetary-type, continuously variable transmission from Lexus Hybrid Synergy Drive and adds a unique four-speed automatic transmission. Working in concert, the two gearsets alter output in four stages to utilize the V6 engine across the entire speed range.

Lexus 2024 LC 500h hybrid.

 

 

The Multistage Hybrid System allows for more electric assist at lower vehicle speeds, and it enables the LC 500h to operate with the gasoline engine off at speeds up to 87 mph. The combined net system output of the LC 500h is 354 hp. The hybrid uses a compact, lightweight lithium-ion battery. The battery pack fits neatly between the rear seats and the luggage compartment and has a high power density, with its 84 cells producing 310.8 V.

Design-wise, the eye-catching coupe displays a unique mesh grille that spreads across the front of the car. It has a large glass panel and blacked-out rear pillars that create a floating roof appearance. Lexus says the chrome-plated moldings along the edges "echo the lines of a traditional Japanese sword."

One of the most noticeable features of the LC 500 is its unique light signature at night. The taillamps were inspired by the glow of a jet's afterburners, and the ultra-compact, triple-projector LED headlamps are striking. Customization options include a carbon fiber roof.

For 2024, the LC 500 coupe and convertible will adopt the LC 500h's standard 21-in. forged alloy wheels, with all grades receiving a new finish of gloss black with metallic accents. An all-new 21-in. forged alloy wheel with gloss black metallic coating and a machined finish also becomes available on all LC builds. A tire repair kit eliminates the need for a spare tire, freeing up space and saving additional weight.

The 2024 LC 500 and LC 500h will offer Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0 and Copper Crest as two new exterior color options. Seven additional colors are also available including: Caviar, Cloudburst Gray, Atomic Silver, Ultra White, Infrared, Flare Yellow, and Nori Green Pearl.

The LC 500 and LC 500h come standard with 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 Tracing Assist, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Road Sign Assist.

Inside, the 2024 LC 500 and LC 500h seat four and are equipped with Lexus Interface, giving drivers the opportunity to access a wide range of enhanced connectivity and convenience features, including Over-the-Air (OTA) updates. Users can interact with the system through intuitive touch and voice activation controls.

The LC models own a balance between function and comfort, sporting intent and luxury. The low instrument panel position, hood line, and narrow pillars give the driver a commanding view of the road. The flowing lines of the door panels serve as an extension of the exterior that flows from the hood and through the windshield.

New to the interior this year, the 2024 LC 500 and LC 500h feature a standard 12.3-in. high-def touchscreen display that provides easy-to-use controls and clear information to the driver and front-seat passengers. All models also 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 is also standard.

Lexus designers paid close attention to detail when creating the LC as seen with a two-part construction technique that allows the seatback to drape over the shoulder area and then wrap around the back of the seat. Components in the shoulder area help hold the driver securely in cornering maneuvers. In addition, the steering wheel cross-section changes around its circumference to allow for variations in grip and twisting of the wrist.

The quality finish of the upholstery, trim materials, and detailing reflect the Takumi craftsmanship and attention to detail for which Lexus is known. It can be seen and felt in the hand stitching of the leather-wrapped gearshift lever and the draping treatment of the Alcantara door panel trim, among numerous other details. Leather-trim interior color schemes for the LC include Black, Toasted Caramel, and new for this model year, Dark Rose.

Lexus 2024 LC 500 convertible.

 

 

The 2024 Lexus LC 500 starts at $98,850 and will be available this summer. Learn more at lexus.com/models/LC. Many more features to learn about there.

Source: Lexus

Published May 2023

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