Lexus LC tweaked for 2020

A raft of updates have been announced for the Lexus LC and they're designed to keep the premium Japanese brand's flagship coupe feeling fresh for 2020.

The biggest technical change involves a complete rethink of the fast Lexus' suspension.

In comes new aluminium lower control arms and hollow anti-roll bars, which not only slash 10kg from the kerb weight but are said to improve response and feedback thanks to a reduction of the unsprung mass.

The changes also include recalibrating the adaptive suspension to allow for a "smoother, softer stroke", hinting that ride comfort has also been improved.

Lexus chassis engineers have also stiffened the rear anti-roll bar for better turn-in.

If that's not enough, Lexus has introduced a new Active Cornering Assist function as part of the LC's stability control system, which is claimed to boost the big coupe's agility during hard cornering.

Finally, the power steering and active rear-wheel steering systems have also been revised.

As well as overhauling the suspension, Lexus has updated the software governing the 10-speed automatic transmission in the LC 500.

The changes are claimed to have improved the auto's responses in everyday driving at between 50-70 per cent throttle openings, and the engine will now rev higher before shifting, thereby improving acceleration between gears.

Lexus says that when the 2020 LC detects you're driving spiritedly on your favourite country road the transmission will shift down to second for sharp hairpin bends, where it would have once stayed in third.

Under the bonnet, both the 351kW 5.0-litre V8 and the 246kW 3.0-litre V6 hybrid carry over unchanged, with the faster V8 still capable of hitting 100km/h in just 4.4 seconds.

Externally, there's been no changes, but the LC will bring the option of two new paint colours – Cadmium Orange and Nori Green Pearl – and there will also be the option of a new set of 20-inch alloys.

Inside, the big change to the cabin is that the infotainment system has been upgraded to be equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Two new interior finishes have also join the options list – Flare Red leather and Manhattan Orange Alcantara.

It's not yet known when the refreshed 2020 Lexus LC will land in Australia, but a small price bump over the existing model is expected. The current model opens at $190,200 (plus on-road costs) for the LC 500h.