2018 Lexus LC 500 Coupe

If there ever was a car that embodied the current Lexus seduction, technology, and performance design themes it’s the 2018 Lexus LC 500 Coupe.

We first caught sight of their latest vision for an S-Class type 2+2 at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit with the LF-LC Concept, and boy did it wow us.

Plus, much of the concept made it to the production LC 500 intact. Including the dynamic front fascia with what Lexus calls a “radical yet elegant” design. The spindle grille mesh becomes more tightly woven as it stretches from the ground over the bumper up to the hood. Arrowhead shaped LED daytime running lights are independent of the slim triple LED headlights.

The spindle lines glide over the hood… along the deeply sculpted flanks and down between the taillights … completing this sporting image at the exhaust tips. A low roof line sweeps down between the haunches.

The LC 500 is the first to ride on a new Global Architecture – Luxury platform. We expect to see it on more front engine/rear-wheel drive Lexus models in the future.

But the LC 500 is far more than just show. Go comes as its 5.0-liter V8 engine unleashes 471 stampeding horses… saddled with a 10-speed automatic transmission…

And we reined them all in during an exhilarating drive in Spain…

DAVE SCRIVENER: “The Lexus LC doesn’t compromise luxury or performance. You get great dynamics character driving on the track or on the street… low center of gravity. They’ve done a lot of work making it great to drive. Steering is phenomenal.” 

Inside, there’s lots of soft supple leather. Critical driving controls surround the steering wheel and gauge cluster with an infotainment screen blended into the very horizontal IP.

Standard Lexus Safety System Plus includes numerous automated nannies including emergency brake assist.

A hybrid version is also offered with a 3.5-liter V6 and electric motors producing a total system 354 horsepower. It debuts a new Multi Stage Hybrid System which adds a 4-speed geared automatic to a Hybrid CVT drivetrain. The result is the power flexibility of a 10-speed gearbox.

The 2018 Lexus LC 500 arrives in dealerships in May with prices starting just over 6-figures.