2022 Lexus LC

The Lexus LC is a supernova of a luxury car—as it should be for its six-figure price tag. It has gorgeous looks and a fabulous V-8 or hybrid V-6 performance, and can be had as a convertible.

For 2022, buyers can custom-order the LC, or choose new option packages. It’s a rear-wheel-drive car; all-wheel drive is unavailable.

The 471-horsepower 5.0-liter V-8 in the LC 500 is mated to a 10-speed automatic and delivers exciting acceleration along with a wonderful sound when you go for the optional sport exhaust. The LC 500h uses a 354-hp hybrid V-6, mated to a smooth transmission–or maybe call it two transmissions, as it’s an innovative design, a 4-speed automatic combined with a CVT, or continuously variable transmission.

Although the LC weighs a lot, about 4,500 lb, its sporty handling defies its bulk. Options that make it feel that way include a limited-slip rear differential for better grip in the corners, and rear-wheel steering to make it nimble and quicker to respond.

The V-8 LC 500 coupe is EPA rated at 16/25/19 mpg, while the convertible drops 1 mpg to 15/25/18 mpg. Naturally the V-6 hybrid is more economical, at 26 mpg city, 34 highway, 29 combined.

The LC hasn’t been crash tested yet, although the standard safety equipment includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors and lane-drift warnings. Options include a head-up display and an automatic parking system that will keep drivers from scraping an alloy wheel against a curb.

Model Lineup

Made in Japan, the LC 500 coupe has an entry-level price of about $95,000, while the convertible runs $102,000 and the 500h hybrid is $100,000 or so. The long list of standard equipment is as you might expect.

Most options come in packages, such as the Touring package with ultra-soft leather and a Mark Levinson sound system. Other options include a glass roof, sport exhaust, rear-wheel steering, Torsen limited-slip rear differential, and larger wheels. There’s also something that Lexus calls a Bespoke Build package that enables buyers to choose trim bits that, along with the handling improvements, might run the price up another $10,000.

The warranty is 4 years or 50,000 miles.

Exterior

The Lexus LFA supercar was short-lived, but Lexus fans will be reminded of its silhouette when they look at the LC. And those less familiar might simply stand and stare when they see the LC parked in front by valet attendants, as it surely will be.

The profile has shapely taut muscles, and skips any gratuitous trim. Gazing at its back end, you’ll see precise taillights and pipes that don’t shout about the beautiful sound that comes out of them.

In front, the dominant spindle grille isn’t universally loved, but it’s countered by needle-like LED headlights.

Interior

For starters, think of the LC as a sports car, since the rear seat is so small. And like a sports car, there aren’t many places to store small things, apart from maybe a phone. With that in mind, appreciate the instrument panel that’s focused on the driver, even with its screens and only a few switches and knobs. And the passenger won’t feel neglected in their nest.

Even for just two, the interior is stunning and its design ravishing. We give it a 10 for attention to detail, and fit and finish, after the standard leather.

The infotainment gets demerits since its 10.3-inch touchscreen comes with a clunky touchpad interface. It includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, though.

The front seats are plush, and comfortable for a long road trip. If you take one, travel light. The rear seat will be filled by a couple of carry-on-size bags, and the trunk is no bigger than five cubic feet.

Driving Impressions

The Lexus LC can sound like a muscle car with its optional sport exhaust. Its 5.0-liter V-8 lays down 471 horsepower through a 10-speed automatic, after launching from a standstill without the immature burnout, thanks to an optional Torsen limited-slip rear differential. It can hit 60 mph in supercar-like 4.4 seconds–and the convertible is only a tick slower, carrying a bit more weight.

Speed-wise, the LC 500h hybrid is no slouch itself. It brings a tasty 354 horsepower to the table, with its 3.5-liter V-6 and hybrid components. The acceleration is perfectly linear, thanks to its new transmission technology, a CVT mated with a conventional 4-speed that results in an available ratio for every level of the engine’s powerband.

You won’t realize how heavy the LC is, as you feel the steering, as well as the poise and balance of the chassis. The optional rear-wheel steering might be nice to quicken the swerving response, but it’s not really needed for cornering. The LC loves twisty roads without it. But the LC grips better with the optional differential.

Final Word

The 2022 Lexus LC coupe and convertible sport a masterful blend of style, performance, and luxury. The rear-wheel steering option is not required: the LC handles well enough without it.

—by Sam Moses with driving impressions by The Car Connection