The Lexus LC 500 is the company's flagship sports car. It features a powerful naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine that delivers an impressive 351kW and 540Nm. Yamaha helped develop this remarkable powerplant, which belongs to a rare group of non-turbo-fed eight-cylinder engines.

This grand tourer comes in striking coupe and convertible forms and has caught everyone's attention since the convertible's local launch in 2020. This Lexus LC500 review will help you decide if its performance matches its $218,241 Driveaway* starting price before on-road costs.The Lexus LC 500 interior's craftsmanship deserves attention, and we'll see how it compares to the Mercedes-Benz S560 coupe that costs $120,000 more. You can choose between special edition models with their bespoke grey metallic matte finish and special 21-inch alloy wheels or standard versions to find if this Lexus belongs in your garage.

Lexus LC500 Design and Build Quality

Design artistry and engineering excellence shine through every curve of the Lexus LC 500. The legendary Takumi master craftsmen watch over critical production stages. Their exceptional attention to detail sets this flagship apart from competitors.

Exterior Styling: Coupe vs Convertible

The convertible keeps the coupe's award-winning design while creating its own identity. The convertible body stays just 10mm longer and 5mm taller than its fixed-roof sibling, thanks to excellent packaging. A distinctive silhouette emerges from the beltline that kicks up behind the doors. This creates a tight, clean profile that makes the body appear to wrap around the cabin.

Both models share Lexus' signature "spindle" grille with a gradient pattern. The pattern compresses tightly at the top and widens into a diamond at the bottom, without the typical chrome surround. Compact LED triple-projector headlights sit between the bumpers and wheels, adding to the car's striking look.

Paint Finish and Body Details

Lexus created a stunning palette of finishes, including Sonic Copper and Cobalt Mica. 

The LC uses a sophisticated mix of materials, carbon-fibre composites, aluminium, and steel, to create a rigid yet lightweight structure. Some variants feature a world-first innovation: incrementally-formed canards built into the front bumper. These canards regulate airflow to boost handling and stability.

Convertible Roof Design and Functionality

The convertible's multi-layered canvas roof stands as a remarkable feat of engineering. Lexus had never built a soft-top before, yet they created a system that works in just 15 seconds at speeds up to 50km/h. Most convertible mechanisms last around 10 years, but this is a big deal as it means that Lexus tested their system to approximately 18,000 open/close cycles.

A clever extra fold in the soft top lets it stow neatly between the rear suspension towers without losing luggage space. The convertible keeps almost the same boot capacity as the coupe at 172 litres. The roof comes in three colours (Beige or Blue) and blocks unwanted noise. Its hydraulic motor runs with Lexus' characteristic quiet efficiency.

Interior Experience and Lexus Craftsmanship

The LC 500's interior surpasses typical luxury expectations. You'll notice the Takumi craftsmanship in every stitch, panel, and control surface.

Lexus LC 500 Interior Materials and Layout

The artistic cockpit surrounds you with premium materials and avant-garde design rather than retro styling. The leather and metal finishes are better than what you'd find in similarly priced competitors. Dark Rose now replaces Flare Red, and you can choose from ochre and black options. The intuitive configuration shows off sweeping curves with unique climate controls and console layouts that set it apart from other Lexus models.

Front Seat Comfort and Adjustability

The front seats went through extensive development. The team needed over 50 prototypes across two years to perfect the driving position. These 12-way power-adjustable seats give excellent support with deep-hung upholstery and quilted semi-aniline leather trim. The ample side bolstering keeps you secure when you're driving spiritedly. Your hip sits remarkably close to the car's centre of gravity, which maximises the feedback you get from the vehicle.

Rear Seat and Boot Space Limitations

The rear seats are really just shelves. An average adult won't find any legroom with the driver's seat in a normal position. The boot space is tight too. The convertible gives you just 149 litres, while the coupe offers a bit more at 197 litres. You should think of the LC as a two-seater with extra storage space.

Infotainment System: 12.3-inch Touchscreen

Lexus has finally ditched the frustrating trackpad controller. The new 12.3-inch touchscreen shows bright graphics with simple menu layouts. This better system runs Lexus Interface software that enables over-the-air updates and voice assistant features. The wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto now provide smooth connectivity.

Mark Levinson Audio and Connectivity Features

The 13-speaker Mark Levinson system pumps out 918 watts of crystal-clear sound. Sound experts measured frequencies throughout the cabin to find the best speaker locations. Active noise control technology keeps things quiet by detecting and cancelling specific engine sounds. Each system gets custom tuning that matches the LC's unique acoustic characteristics.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

The LC 500's elegant bonnet conceals a technical masterpiece that creates a unique driving experience. Its naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 provides a raw connection that modern turbocharged engines often lack.

Engine Specs: 5.0L V8, 351kW/540Nm

A Yamaha-tuned 5.0-litre V8 powers the LC 500's heart. It generates 351kW at 7100rpm and 540Nm of torque at 4800rpm. This naturally aspirated engine focuses on delivering an emotional driving experience rather than pure power numbers. The engine's immediate throttle response creates a more engaging feel than its turbocharged competitors, despite their higher power figures. Active sound control valves make the V8's soundtrack a joy to hear, especially during start-up and acceleration.

Transmission and Drive Modes

The 10-speed automatic transmission features close gear ratios that create rhythmic gear changes with excellent timing. The transmission works well with the engine's character, though some reviewers mention slightly slow upshifts in manual mode. Drivers can customise the powertrain, chassis and climate control systems through six drive modes: Normal, Eco, Comfort, Sport S, Sport S+ and Expert. The LC 500 becomes truly aggressive in Sport+ mode with instant throttle response and quick gear changes.

Ride Comfort and Handling on Australian Roads

A multi-link suspension delivers precise turn-in and steering feedback while maintaining a smooth ride even with 21-inch wheels. The convertible model shows some chassis flex on rough roads. Lexus optimised the handling through chassis upgrades like lighter forged aluminium suspension parts and modified shock absorber length.

Fuel Economy: Real-World vs Claimed

The official fuel consumption rating stands at 11.6L/100km, but real-world numbers tend to be higher. Owners typically see average consumption between 17.8 to 19.6 MPG (about 12 to 13.2L/100km). Mixed driving conditions can push consumption up to 15L/100km when driven enthusiastically.

Convertible Driving Experience

Top-down driving makes the V8's intoxicating sound even more impressive. The open air creates a stronger connection to the powertrain. The convertible keeps most of its coupe sibling's dynamic abilities while adding an extra dimension to the drive, though some body flex appears on rough roads that the coupe doesn't experience.