2016 Lexus LC 500h eCVT+4AT RWD (360 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Lexus unveiled the LC in concept form in 2012 at the North American International Auto Show. Most people loved the idea of a personal luxury coupe made by one of the most reliable brands in the world. They were not disappointed in 2016 when the Japanese premium automaker unveiled the final product.

When the final product hit the market in 2016 as a 2017 model year, bystanders were delighted. Unfortunately, sales were way less than expected, with just a little bit over 3,000 units delivered in 2017. Still, the car was delightful in many ways. Even though it had pretty much everything a personal luxury coupe should have, sales didn’t go through the roof. Some considered it a very polarizing vehicle since it had a futuristic design, a high-tech hybrid drivetrain, and luxurious interior amenities. Unfortunately, its six-figure price was not that attractive, and customers already had alternatives from other premium automakers such as Cadillac, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Jaguar.

With a front fascia dominated by Lexus’ spindle grille and aggressive angular headlights that looked intimidating, the LC was clearly a different kind of product than what the automakers’ customers were used to seeing from this brand. The tall triangular side scoops on the lower bumper and the fang-like trims on the front fascia were suitable for a concept car but not so much for a production vehicle. From its profile, the low roof and sloped back emphasized the car’s sporty character. In front of the rear wheels, Lexus installed a set of scoops that cooled the rear brakes. Finally, at the back of the car, the automaker installed a four-exhaust system that sported two wide and two narrow rectangular tips flanking the rear diffuser.

The interior took inspiration from the LF supercar with its fully digital instrument cluster, where the tachometer took center stage. In addition, atop the center stack, Lexus installed a screen for the infotainment system. That could’ve been controlled via a touchpad housed by the center console. It was one of the most difficult-to-use infotainment systems in the automotive industry, and that also affected sales. But the leather-wrapped interior and the front bucket seats with high-bolstered areas were attractive. In addition, there was also a bench seat in the back for two additional passengers, although room there was very limited.

Lexus offered the car with a choice of two engines: a hybrid V6 and a V8, both paired with automatic transmissions. While the former featured an eCVT gearbox, the latter boasted a ten-speed, torque-converter-based one. Both sent their power to the rear wheels only and provided enough excitement and a high level of performance. The independent suspension in all corners and adaptive dampers allowed customers to ride in comfort or drive fast around corners.