Lexus Unveils Faster, Lighter 2021 LC 500 Coupe

Lexus’ V8-powered grand tourer sheds weight for faster acceleration and more thrills.

Lexus has unveiled a range-topping LC 500 coupe that’s lighter, faster and even more luxurious for 2021. 

Car and Driver tested the preceding model and reported that, though sporty and extravagant, it was slightly too heavy to deliver thrills. Engineers have addressed that issue in particular for this year by aluminum lower suspension arms, lighter suspension stabilizers with a hollow design and revised diameter, new high-strength coil spring material, and lighter 21-inch rear wheels to shed 22 pounds off the vehicle in the form of unsprung weight, which should also improve handling. 

How fast is the Lexus LC 500?

The 5.0-liter, naturally aspirated V8 in the 2021 Lexus LC 500 still cranks out 471 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of peak torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission to deliver a 4.4-second zero-to-60 mph time. 

The hybrid Lexus LC 500h pairs a 3.5-liter V6 with two electric motors to send 354 hp through a continuously variable transmission. A sprint to 60 mph takes five seconds flat in the 500h.

The LC 500 is still absolutely gorgeous, as is generally expected from Toyota’s luxury-focused branch. A unique mesh grille with a large glass panel, blacked-out pillars and chrome panel below it create a floating appearance. 

Meanwhile, the taillights and triple-projector LED headlights are meant to simulate a jet engine’s afterburners. Two new exterior finishes—Nori Green Pearl and Cadmium Orange—join the varied list of available paint coats that includes Caviar, Obsidian, Smoky Granite Mica, Atomic Silver, Liquid Platinum, Ultra White, Infrared, Nightfall Mica, Flare Yellow. 

Inside are exclusive seats that have a two-part construction to secure the driver while cornering. The quality finish of the upholstery, trim materials and detailing exemplify Lexus’ high level of craftsmanship. 

For instance, the leather-wrapped gearshift lever and the draping treatment of the Alcantara door panel trim are hand-stitched. Available interior color schemes for the LC include Black leather, Toasted Caramel leather, Circuit Red leather, which is new for 2021. All interiors are complimented with exposed Satin Metallic accents. 

The cockpit also boasts  10.3-inch high-resolution split-screen multimedia display that that allows access access to audio or climate controls and various systems, as well as standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

How much does the Lexus LC 500 cost?  

The 2021 Lexus LC 500 starts at $93,975, and the 500h starts at $98,535. The first models are expected to arrive at dealerships in May of 2020.