In early May we wrote a Lexus news story that provided us with details of the changes to its upmarket LC Coupe. Pricing wasn’t provided at the time, but has now done so with the
V8-powered LC 500 priced from $194,747 and the flagship self-charging hybrid LC 500h from $195,165.
LC 500 and LC 500h customers can further select a $15,000 Enhancement Pack that provides lightweight carbon-fibre additions and more focused handling for the keen driver.
Repeated below is our original news piece:
The 351kW 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine in the LC 500, and the 3.5-litre V6 multi-stage hybrid in the LC 500h, both benefit from revised transmission set-ups to maximise responsiveness.
Enhanced logic patterns for the LC 500’s 10-speed Direct Shift automatic means it upshifts at higher engine speed when 60-70 per cent throttle is applied.
The LC 500h’s is now able to downshift to second gear (previously third) when braking in Sport S and Sport S+ modes to give more immediate acceleration.
The front and rear coil springs have been strengthened and the shock-absorber length for the standard Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) has been modified to improve linear response and control.
Rear roll rigidity distribution has been revised, making it easier for the driver to feel the LC’s posture through corners and assist with more accurate line-tracing capability.
The LC 500 debuts a Yamaha developed performance damper that better absorbs twists and quells body vibrations during spirited driving.
Newly standard on LC is Active Cornering Assist (ACA), which utilises the vehicle stability control to provide subtle braking of the inside wheels during high-G cornering, helping to create a natural and neutral cornering feel for the driver.
A steering-wheel heater is now standard along with an ‘easy access’ front seat slide function to further aid front seat ingress and egress.
LC Coupe will also feature two new paint colours, Carnelian and the permanent availability of Khaki Metal, and two new interior options: Flare Red with black and red trim and Manhattan Henge with black and sunset-coloured trim.
