Lexus lands LC 500 from $190K

Spearheading something of a brand renaissance for Lexus, the striking LC (for Luxury Coupe) has arrived in Australia with a starting price of $190,000 (plus on-road costs).

The line-up comprises two variants – the 351kW V8-powered LC 500 and a 264kW V6 hybrid LC 500h – each landing just months after the big new coupe's international launch debut in Monteblanco, Spain last December.

Lexus says the LC 500 promises a "seductive technology package" certain to speak to "financially liberated" Aussie buyers, the sporty GT car including high-tech elements inside and out aimed at improving not only its performance, but also driver engagement.

On the list is a rear spoiler that automatically deploys at 80km/h, 3D-look tail-lights with recursive mirrors, compact LED headlights, an Aisin-sourced 10-speed automatic transmission, head-up display and, on the hybrid variant, a modern lithium-ion battery pack.

Built on Lexus’ new GA-L front-engine/rear-drive platform, the svelte two-door is likely to rival other large luxury coupes that include eight-cylinder Jaguar F-TYPE variants (from $228,000) and the Mercedes-AMG GT S (from $295,000). However, Lexus Australia says that owing to its Grand Touring status, most LC buyers will likely cross-shop the BMW 6 Series (from $182,100) and Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (from $218,715).

The LC 500 boasts a 0-100km/h time of just 4.7sec, thanks to its silken quad-cam V8, and is said to be capable of achieving an ADR Combined fuel consumption figure of 11.6L/100km. For the LC 500h those figures are 5.0sec and 6.7L/100km respectively.

"The unique propositions of the LC 500 and LC 500h fit the bill perfectly, especially as no matter which one the buyer selects, the price is identical at $190,000," explained Lexus Australia Chief Executive, Peter McGregor.

"This aggressive pricing underscores the dedication of Lexus for delivering cars with exciting, emotional designs and exhilarating performance… the LC takes this evolution to another level with its distinctive design and rewarding dynamic experience, along with the luxury, quality and attention to detail for which Lexus has always been renowned," he added.

Lexus’ LC 500 measures 4700mm long, 1900mm wide and 1400mm tall (or +55, +45 and -75mm when compared to the RC F) and claims a near perfect 52/48 front/rear weight distribution ratio. Lexus said it aimed to centralise mass as far inboard as possible, the body’s mix of steel, aluminium and carbon-fibre construction claimed to offer better torsional rigidity than Lexus’ previous sports flagship, the limited-build 2011 LF-A.

In spite of the claims, however, the LC 500 range tips the scales at more than 1950kg (kerb) locally, placing it a significant disadvantage over its claimed rivals (+265kg over the BMW 6 Series and +176kg on the Mercedes-Benz SL).

With a steeply raked roofline the 2+2-seat cabin is unlikely to draw a rush of family buyers. Headroom is tight and legroom restrictive – at least the seat-return memory will automatically roll the seat forward if its movement aft is impeded by the rear-seat occupant’s shins.

Lexus will offer an extensive range of personalisable trim and upholstery materials and colours, the cabin playing host to a breathtaking level of attention to detail, and finally an updated version of Lexus’ Remote Touch Interface that does away with that irritating ‘mouse’.

Lexus offers only one ‘option’ package for the LC 500 and LC 500h locally -- the Dynamic Enhancement Package including four-wheel steering, variable steering ratio, carbon-fibre roof and scuff plates and Alcantara seats, for $15,000.

"This isn’t simply a car that looks great," McGregor continued. "It’s been engineered in every dimension to deliver a very special driving experience.

"We’re confident that this contemporary interpretation of the finest traditions of the Grand Tourer, with its handling, its responsiveness, and its comfort, will deliver a rewarding and hugely enjoyable experience when you get behind the wheel tomorrow," he concluded.

Visit motoring.com.au again this Friday, June 9 when the embargo lifts on local driving impressions.

2017 Lexus LC 500 pricing (plus ORCs):
LC 500 – $190,000
LC 500h – $190,000
Dynamic Enhancement Package – $15,000