2022 Lexus LC500
The traditional formula for a Grand Tourer is one part sport and one part luxury. And this 2022 LC 500 is an honest attempt by Lexus to expertly mix the two.
Getting down to brass tacks, it’s powered by a getting rarer, naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine, conjuring up 471 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque to the rear-wheels. Expect quick shifts from the 10-speed automatic, completing 0-60 sprints in about 4.6 seconds; and if you keep going, you’ll hit a top speed of 168 miles per hour. Backing up these numbers is a throaty V8 growl; subtle when you need it, louder when you want it.
And what better way to hear the symphony of exhaust than with the top down. This is just the second year the LC 500 is offered as a convertible and it’s a great way to spec it out; though a hardtop coupe can be had if so desired. Either roof covers a well-appointed cabin filled with standard luxury features, like heated and ventilated power front seats, magnesium paddle shifters and a 10.3-inch infotainment screen.
For 2022, the LC 500 also sees some suspension tweaking to improve handling. This rounds out our two-part GT formula, but it’s really behind the wheel where all this comes together.
ALEXANDER KELLUM: “I think the LC 500 does a really good job at embodying what a grand tourer is kinda all about. On one hand, it looks properly classy inside and out; especially here in the cabin, all the materials are very premium and plush. Fit and finish is top, and you really get a sense of the craftsmanship that went into it. The ride is very comfortable, which I guess means you lose a little bit of sport potential, but hey it’s still a luxury car, whaddya expect? And yet despite the pampered-ness, underneath the hood you’ve got this gnarly 5.0-liter V8. It’s an absolute blast to drive and it sounds sublime coming out the back.”
The 2022 Lexus LC 500 starts around 95-thousand-dollars for the hardtop coupe; our convertible model starts just over 100-K. And the LC 500h, the hybrid version of this luxury cruiser, starts around the same.
The LC 500 may not be perfect, but it’s a great reminder what “sport luxury” means when left in the hands of the Toyota/Lexus family.
And we’ll be back with plenty more Quick Spins… soon!