2020 Lexus LC 500

The 2020 Lexus LC 500 might roar like a dragon but it's not enough to beat the Nissan's Godzilla or the Jaguar. Since it was launched last year, Lexus hid a treat under the hood. It's called a 5.0L V8 engine mated to a slick 10-speed automatic transmission. It can deliver good numbers in terms of power, but still, it's no Ferrari. Typical to a Lexus, it feels more like a grand tourer than a proper sports car. It might look exciting and fast, but you really have to push it to get an intense adrenaline-fuelled drive.

The LC500 is not the only car that can create a mix and match of performance and comfort. Mercedes-Benz has been on the same page for several decades now, offering more options at different fronts and price ranges. On either end of the spectrum sit the astonishing Jaguar F-Type and the breathtaking Nissan GT-R. Both the cars are good at what they're built for: the Jag for luxurious cruises and the Godzilla for breakneck rushes. This puts the LC500 Coupe smack-dab in the middle, offering both the goods without specializing in either.

A sports coupe at heart, the LC 500 C is Lexus’s lone wolf who doesn’t need a pack to protect its meat. The car is an amalgamation of luxury and sportiness in the right proportion. Japanese aesthetics stirred with German level technology, and an engine which can win any horsepower war, that’s what you are getting with the LC 500. It’s something the RC lineup aspired to achieve but never met its goal, it’s a good thing the LC 500 took the lead. As for the features, Lexus had a premeditated fat and juicy standard feature list.

Trim	LC 500
MSRP	$93,325
Key Features	20-inch wheels
	Adjustable suspension
	LED exterior lights
	12-speaker audio system with satellite radio
	Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa
	Heated and ventilated power-adjustable front seats
	Power-adjustable tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel
	Adaptive cruise control
	Automatic high-beam control
	Heated and auto-dimming mirrors
	Driver-seat memory settings
	10.3-inch central display

We Recommend

There is only a single trim for the LC 500, which is plentiful on its own. Still, we would suggest you add the Convenience package as it comes with rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot monitoring.

"The LC vaults Lexus into real sports-car territory. It’s no lightweight, but it’s hashtag-blessed with raucous acceleration, excellent steering, and room to grow into a truly spectacular LC F." -The Car Connection

Engine and Transmission

The LC lineup came into existence in 2018 and Lexus has just the right way to strike a breathtaking impact on the American market. The long hood hides Zeus’s thunderbolt or for the layman a 5.0L V8 Premium Unleaded engine. The engine is backed with a mental 10-speed automatic transmission which is a mechanical wonder. The engine’s rumbling noise leaks into the cabin in a filtered manner which is not appreciated from a coupe of this stature. Ignoring the little anomaly, the LC’s engine is loud and nails the right note, the type of sound which attracts cops in your neighborhood and turn heads on the boulevard.

Models	Lexus LC 500 coupe	Mercedes Benz AMG E 53 coupe	Jaguar F Type R Dynamic coupe	Nissan GT-R Pure
MSRP	$93,325	$73,700	$84,345	$99,990
Engine	5.0L V8	3.0L Turbocharged inline-6 with an electric motor	3.0L Supercharged V6	3.8L V6 Twin Turbo
Transmission	10-Speed Automatic	9-Speed AMG SpeedShift Automatic	8-Speed ZF Automatic	6-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic
Horsepower	471 hp@ 7100 rpm	429 hp@ 6100rpm	380 hp@ 6500 rpm	565 hp@ 6800 rpm
Torque	398 lbs-ft@ 4800 rpm	384 lbs-ft@ 1800 rpm	339 lbs-ft 3500 rpm	467 lbs-ft@ 3300 rpm

The 10-speed automatic transmission is smooth and doesn’t meddle with the organic engine feel. It doesn’t interrupt the fun by holding gears either, the paddle shifters are on the point and bore speedy downshifts. The engine fires up the rear wheels with its 471 horses and 398 pound-feet worth of pulling force through a Torsen Differential. Japanese stays humble with its potent engine by detuning it below 500 horsepower, though it's apt for a luxury sports vehicle and more than what others deliver.

Acceleration

It might be powered by 471 horses and barks like a Japanese Mastiff but the Lexus LC 500 is more words than action. The exhaust note will fool you for a potent sports car power but the acceleration doesn’t quite stand up to the sound. The rpm jolts to 7000 before the transmission cast its magic and zooms through the freeway. The LC 500 completes the 60 mph test in 4.4 seconds which is impressive. The quarter-mile takes 13.8 seconds which is ok but it’s not a 10-second car like the GT-R.

Models	Lexus LC 500 coupe	Mercedes Benz AMG E 53 coupe	Jaguar F Type R Dynamic coupe	Nissan GT-R Pure
0-60 MPH	4.4 sec	4.3 sec	4.8 sec	2.9 sec
Quarter mile	13.8 sec	13.4 sec	14.4 sec	11.2 sec
Engine	5.0L V8	3.0L Turbocharged I-6	3.0L V6 Intercooled Supercharger	3.8L V6 Twin Turbo
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year)	9.3	7.7	6.4	9.8

Ride and handling

The spirit of any auto purist is thrilled by the untainted pleasure of driving and Lexus offers a treat to all of them by the LC 500. The moment you mat the pedal and the exhaust pipes explode with its sonorous orchestra, you will know this is going to be a hell of a ride. Unfortunately, Lexus builds the LC 500 around the idea of a luxurious grand touring coupe. It is fast but not comparable to cars with sporty DNA, though the roaring engine spices up the experience.

The steering has nice bolstering and its wrapped in leather, you will sense an on-center feel but there is no road communication, the comfort orientation of the car is clearly visible. Going around the corners is entertaining but the lack of athletic cosmetics will surface a backlash. The absence of feedback can make you nervous and keep you from taking full advantage of a freeway. Another point of concern is the obstructive traction control which cuts power and applies brakes on its own like a terrible AI.

As for the changes, this year you have an enhanced adaptive suspension which promotes Lexus’s comfort logic. Further changes incorporate modified engine mounts and a reprogrammed 10-speed automatic transmission. The upshifts and downshifts are quick and complement the engine’s power. Shifts through paddle shifters are more responsive and fun. At last, the 21 inches allow wheels may look jaw-dropping but they also act as a germ on the ride quality.

Braking

The brakes are firm but in a way that inspires confidence, though this confidence is limited to atypical situations. In a straight predictable road, the pedal feels a bit vague. On the freeway, when you are blasting your car at high speeds one can very well judge the car’s intention and modulate easily. The front brakes are rated at 15.7 inches and the rear is reserved at 14.1 inches. Hard braking from the speed of 60 mph will bore a stopping distance of 105 feet.

Model	Lexus LC 500 coupe	Mercedes Benz AMG E 53 coupe	Jaguar F Type R Dynamic coupe	Nissan GT-R Pure
Brake Front (in.)	15.7	14.6	15.0	15.3
Brake Rear (in.)	14.1	14.2	12.8	15.0
Curb Weight (lbs.)	4280	4200	3514	3929
60-0 MPH (ft.)	105	115	109	97

The LC 500 was introduced as an elevated version of the RC lineup, it filled in the gap of power and add a dash of luxury to the class but sadly the fuel economy deteriorated with the bigger engine. But that’s Lexus’s family matter other brands take dibs on the market for its subpar EPA rating. In the city, the LC 500 performs by delivering 16 mpg city mileage which is pushed to 25 mpg while highway cruising. That’s the way you can expect a 19 mpg from this Lexus. The hybrid version may skip a few gas refills, but this one doesn’t hand out any rebates.

Model	Lexus LC 500 coupe	Mercedes Benz AMG E 53 coupe	Jaguar F Type R Dynamic coupe	Nissan GT-R Pure
MPG (city)	16	21	18	16
MPG (highway)	25	28	26	22
MPG (combined)	19	23	21	18
Tank Capacity (gal)	21.7	17.4	18.5	19.5

“Good outward visibility and a comfortable, sporty driving position are the highlights. The Lexus is also easier to get in and out of than many low-slung coupes. The cabin is very upscale, with a few exceptions.” -Edmunds

Seating and Comfort

Lexus’s interior will not bore you for a long time, that’s for sure! The Japanese tasteful design paired with an apt distribution of features, forged from premium quality material, that’s what you are in it for with the LC 500. Everything on the interior feels upmarket, there is hardly anything which is not covered in leather, the unwrapped exceptions are covered in metal. The cabin is a strict no hard plastic zone. Though Lexus markets the LC as a 4 passenger coupe its only sensible for two. The front cabin is easily accessible and offers a lot of space even for taller people. The cabin might be a work of art but it feels small, especially when it’s a full executive size.

Model	Lexus LC 500 coupe	Mercedes Benz AMG E 53 coupe	Jaguar F Type R Dynamic coupe	Nissan GT-R Pure
Passenger capacity	4	4	2	4
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	37.2/56.5/42.0	40.9/56.1/41.8	37.0/56.5/43.0	38.1/54.3/44.6
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	32.2/49.0/32.5	36.4/50.3/34.1	-	33.5/50/26.4

As for the features, everything is well laid out like a menu with some boasting physical switches while others controlled through the touch screen. The front seats are heated and ventilated which are accessed through the screen. The laptop-like touchpad is a bit tricky to use on the road and also lacks gesture support. At last, you have a choice for leather or Alcantara seats with three color options. The only thing where LC lags is the suffocating rear seats which are only sensible for children.

Infotainment

When you are investing almost a hundred thousand dollars in a car, then you would expect a big chunk of the latest technology to be a part of your ride. Lexus stands its promise of being flashy with a 10.3-inch split screen though it fails to achieve the tight intuitiveness mark. The newly revised Enform infotainment system adds Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa but it’s tricky to use. Lexus brings in Mark Levinson orchestra to bang your head on some hard rock music. You also have the Enform app suite at your disposal but the app collection is not that interesting.

The Navigation system clearly says, “it’s their way or the highway”. The system requires precise coordinates to locate your destination, any lapse in information and the system will not work. The voice controls work fine but you might want to follow the voice-training procedure set by Lexus. At last, the Android users are abandoned as there is no Android Auto for the 2020 Lexus LC 500.

Cargo volume

One thing which you will find troubling in the LC 500 is its low cargo space. There are side pockets but they are not meant for keeping bottles. Apart from that, there are a few cubby holes and an armrest box that sums up Lexus’s cabin utility. Going backward to the tailgate, you have 5.4 cubic feet of cargo bay which is smaller than most cars in the segment. The tailgate has a wide opening which can swallow a full-sized suitcase and a golf bag, nothing extra. A constant problem reported by the LC owners is the heating of the cargo area, even after smaller rides.

Model	Lexus LC 500 coupe	Mercedes Benz AMG E 53 coupe	Jaguar F Type R Dynamic coupe	Nissan GTR Pure
Cargo Volume (ft.3)	5.4	10.0	7.0	8.8

Interior Features

• Climate Control
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Dual Illuminating Vanity Mirrors
• Electrochromatic Inside Rearview Mirror
• Electric Power Steering
• Rear View Camera
• Tilt And Telescopic Steering Wheel
• Universal Remote Transmitter (For Garage Door, Security System, Etc.)
• Front Door Pockets
• Transmission, Cruise And Audio Controls On Steering Wheel
• Interior Air Filtration

“The LC 500 is a real-world interpretation of the acclaimed LF-LC concept car. Lexus underscored its pledge to bringing that stunning shape into production, and the LC represents one of those rare instances when it's not hyperbole to call it a concept car you can buy”- Kelley Blue Book

Design and Styling

People love concept cars because of their majestic styling and magical appeal, the feeling is something you cannot explain. Their non-tangibility turns people’s desire to fetish, it's fine though because this time Lexus allows you to get what was built for the stage. Talking about concept cars, Lexus slams other brands through its theatrical design which is elevated on its concept cars. The LC 500 is a drop-dead gorgeous Lexus which is directly extracted from the LC-FC concept. Right from the 3-element headlights to the muscle car inspired rear end, Lexus gave it all.

The gigantic spindle front grill cannot be missed and the 3D taillights give it a distinct character than other luxury cars. The detailing on the LC is better than Madame Tussaud's mannequins. The flush handles, strong lines, and panel roof survived the transitions from concept to production. The wheel wells may harbor 20-inch alloy wheels but they are more apt for the optional 21-inch alloy wheels.

Now, let's map out all your exterior choices on the LC 500 coupe. No luxury buyer can ignore Lexus’s colossal color scheme, you have nine color options including vivid colors like Infrared, Nightfall Mica, Obsidian black and more. You have two options for wheels of 20 and 21 inches.

Model	Lexus LC 500 coupe	Mercedes Benz AMG E 53 coupe	Jaguar F Type R Dynamic coupe	Nissan GT-R Pure
Curb weight (lbs.)	4280	4200	3514	3929
Length(in)	187.4	190.6	176.0	185.4
Width(in)	75.6	80.9	74.2	74.6
Height(in)	53.0	56.3	51.6	53.9
Ground clearance (in)	5.2	4.7	4.1	N/A
Wheelbase (in)	113.0	113.1	103.2	109.4
Track width (in) F/R	64.2/64.4	64.1/62.8	62.4/64.1	62.6/63

Dimensions and Weight

There are a lot of elements on LC 500’s exterior, the fine lines of lusciousness on the hood remind of those old school muscle cars on a feline body. Its inches shorter than the LC-FC concept but looks fairly similar. The LC 500 is a 187.4-inch long coupe with width and height rated at 75.6 inches and 53 inches. With such numbers, the LC slips right into the industry standards. It may look much close to the ground but actually features the highest ground clearance of 5.3 inches. The same specs follow the Hybrid variant and the design is identical.

Exterior Features

• 20" Forged Wheels
• Alloy Wheel Locks
• Carbon Fiber Rear Spoiler
• Door Edge Film By 3M
• Carbon Fiber Lower Grille Insert
• Premium Paint
• 21" Forged Wheels

The LC 500 is a yesteryear’s offering and it's still measuring the market right now. Its too soon for the Lexus to joust with the wall, hence NHTSA and IIHS have not rated the LC 500. So, it is wise not to make a bid on Lexus LC’s safety.

Safety Features

• Blind Spot And Lane Departure Warnings Accident Avoidance System
• Tire Pressure Monitoring
• Traction Control
• Pre-Collision Safety System
• Engine Immobilizer
• Post-Collision Safety System
• Child Seat Anchors
• Rear Integrated Headrests
• Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags
• Front And Rear Head Airbags
• Stability Control

Lexus LC 500 vs Jaguar F Type R Dynamic

Jaguar F Type precedes its reputation of being a sporty ride while delivering traces of luxury. Jaguar had a galore of configuration including three different engine options. The V6 and V8 are potent and makes the most of all those horses. The ride quality is precise and predictable and better than what Lexus has to offer, but at the same time, Jaguar will cost you’re a fortune. Inside, Jaguar flaunts a competitive interior so don’t try to be in the perplexing situation of comparing the two.

Overall, the Jaguar is a competitive choice, it offers a tad more practicality and cuts the concept of vague rear seats to keep it a 2 seater which is good.

Lexus LC 500 vs Nissan GT-R Pure

Nissan Godzilla is known for its untamed raw power and mad acceleration, a true 10-second car to its core. If you prefer performance over design then the GTR will put a wide smile on your face. The mad performance in its acceleration was expected, whatnot was a higher cargo volume. Surprisingly, the GT-R offers more practicality than our so-called luxury muscle. Talking about the ride quality, the GTR is the polar opposite of the LC 500, where Lexus’s suspension is tuned for comfort, the latter is stiff and calibrated for a more sporty ride.

The biggest difference comes with power and handling, the price’s impact is stagnant on the cars of this stature. Your choice depends on what type of car do you want, a suburban luxury cruiser or a sporty wrecking machine.

Lexus didn’t have a worth horse in the hundred thousand dollar race since the SC coupe, but that’s passed. Today, Lexus is all set to conquer the segment with its sturdy build quality, eccentric Japanese styling, and what we call a perfect luxury overload. While one cannot get over its luxury and rich fills of features, the performance is not in the same league. The LC 500 is fast but not enough to surmount its German rivals. The V8 engine is a badass and it rumbles like no other coupe in the segment but that’s just black magic to make it seem more aggressive. The LC is more of a luxury Gran Tourer and it’s the best one in the market.