STILL FLYING UNDER THE radar for most buyers, the Lexus LC Coupe is about to take another crack at wider acceptance with the release of an updated version in June, followed by a convertible version later in the year.The Coupe debuts powertrain and suspension upgrades for even more performance, as well as new levels of luxury.
The 351kW 5.0-litre normally 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 for the driver.
Enhanced logic patterns for the LC 500’s 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission target gear upshifts at higher engine speed when 60-70 percent throttle is applied, to more regularly deliver immediate performance.
The LC 500h’s innovative multi stage shift device is now able to downshift to second gear (previously third) when braking in Sport S and Sport S+ modes to realise more immediate acceleration out of a corner during spirited driving.
Further leveraging the rigidity of the LC’s GA-L rear-wheel-drive platform and sophisticated multi-link suspension set-up, Lexus engineers have reduced weight (something that was an obvious area of attention) to enhance ride comfort and sharpen handling.
The front lower control arm of the LC is now produced from 1.65kg-lighter forged aluminium to help reduce unsprung mass and – together with stronger instrument-cowl bracing – further improve steering feel.
The shape of the second front control arm has also been revised, in concert with an altered front rebound spring rate and an optimised stabiliser bar, to help further reduce the transmission of road-surface imperfections into the cabin.
Front and rear coil springs have been strengthened and the shock-absorber length for the standard Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) has been modified, with new control-software parameters providing linear response and improved control.
In particular, rear roll rigidity distribution has been revised, making it easier for the driver to feel the vehicle’s posture through corners and assist with more accurate line-tracing capability.
The rear suspension further benefits from revised spring rates, a hollow stabiliser bar and 0.7kg-lighter 21-inch alloy wheels. The LC 500 also 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.
This is replaced on the Enhancement Pack option for LC with updated Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH), which benefits from revised tuning of front and rear-wheel steering to support high-speed stability and more nimble behaviour at lower speeds.
Complementing these dynamic changes to the LC, 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.
Lexus Australia Chief Executive Scott Thompson said the updated LC perfectly aligned its luxury performance Coupe flagship with the forthcoming Convertible.
“The brave design and Takumi craftsmanship of the LC is now taken to a new level with even more exhilarating performance and a greater emotional connection with the driver,” Mr Thompson said.
“Late this year, the updated LC Coupe will be joined by the driving pleasure of the incredible LC Convertible, enriching customer lifestyles and advancing the evolution of Lexus as a luxury lifestyle brand.”
Pricing and full specifications for the LC Coupe and LC Convertible will be announced closer to their launch dates. Final range and specifications may vary from those depicted.
Once we have tested and assessed the new Lexus LC Coupe, seniordriveraus will bring you a comprehensive review, including everything the over-50 driver needs to know.