LEXUS HAS ADDED IMPROVED connectivity and upgraded safety, including Connected Services on every model, following a comprehensive update to the flagship LC coupe and convertible range.
The full suite of Lexus Connected Services is in conjunction with the latest Lexus multimedia system and additional safety features for the stylish and sophisticated two-door LC models.
Available for purchase from this month, the revised LC range brings complimentary three-year subscription to Lexus Connected Services, providing owners greater peace of mind and additional connectivity with the inbuilt data communication module (DCM) (We asked Lexus what the cost will be after the complimentary three-year period and they advised us that “it is still being worked through” and that the anniversary of the first of the complimentary subscriptions isn’t until early next year. It’s a question we’d be asking Lexus before finalising any purchase).
In combination with the Lexus Connected smartphone app, LC owners may access real-time vehicle information including odometer reading, fuel level, distance to empty, recent trip info, and the vehicle’s last known location.
Owners may remotely check the open/close status of the doors, windows, hatch and boot; and the app can issue notifications if the doors, windows, boot or hatch are left open, or if the hazard lights are left on.
Lexus Remote Connect allows owners the possibility to remotely start the engine and lock and unlock the doors and boot.
Connected Services also provides cloud-based navigation, and safety features including Automatic Collision Notification, SOS Emergency Call and Stolen Vehicle Tracking.
The Drive Pulse feature even takes into account the driver’s acceleration and braking characteristics to provide a driver rating out of 100.
The new updates enhance the halo status of the LC within the Lexus range, with its blend of effortless performance and stunning design stirring emotions the way few vehicles can.
The Australian LC range starts from $204,635 plus on road costs for the LC 500 Coupe, which can be optioned with a generously equipped and performance-oriented Enhancement Pack for $15,000.
The highly specified LC 500h Coupe arrives from $212,727, while the soft-top LC 500 Convertible asks $218,242.
The LC’s infotainment package now includes a 12.3-inch display with the latest Lexus multimedia system and an easy-to-navigate touchscreen.
The new multimedia system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto for easy smartphone mirroring.
The 13-speaker Mark Levinson audio system is updated to allow playback of high-resolution sound sources, while the speakers have been changed to a low-voltage type.
New active safety features are added to the Lexus Safety Sense + suite of technologies, starting with an expansion of the Pre Collision System which for LC now may be able to detect bicycles in the daytime and pedestrians at all times.
Intersection turning assist may be able to detect oncoming vehicles when turning right at an intersection, as well as pedestrians crossing the road on either side of the intersection.
Emergency steering assist may also support the driver with additional steering torque when performing an evasive steering manoeuvre, while still keeping the vehicle within its lane.
The dynamic radar cruise control system is enhanced with greater detection capability, and expanded to include road sign assist (speed signs only), which allows easy switching between set speeds using steering wheel buttons.
Curve speed reduction is also introduced, which may suppress vehicle speed if the system determines an upcoming corner requires a reduction in speed (one of the most infuriating devices ever invented, in our opinion!).
Lane tracing assist is added, which improves on lane departure alert by offering a lane centring function and providing steering assistance designed to keep the vehicle centred with the lane.
Rear cross traffic alert and a panoramic view monitor with a range of available views are added to make parking in tight spaces easier.
The LC 500 continues to be powered by the sonorous 5.0-litre V8 developing 351kW at 7100rpm and 540Nm at 4800 rpm, with new engine mounts helping to maintain smoothness.
Capable of revving up to a 7300rpm redline, the 2UR-GSE V8 engine drives the rear wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission for smooth and rapid acceleration.
Meanwhile, the LC 500h employs its fuel-saving 3.5-litre V6 hybrid arrangement, also driving the rear wheels via a continuously variable transmission for a combined peak output of 264kW.
The LC 500 Coupe is available with an optional Enhancement Pack, which adds dynamic rear steering and variable gear ratio steering, an active rear spoiler, carbon fibre roof, 10-way power adjustable front seats with Alcantara and leather-accented trim and carbon-fibre scuff plates.
The LC 500h Coupe was previously available with an optional Enhancement Pack, but going forward is offered as a single, highly-specified grade incorporating previously optional features as standard, including those from the LC 500 Enhancement Pack plus a Torsen limited-slip differential and high-grade brake discs.
The LC 500h Coupe joins the LC 500 Convertible as being available only with a single high level of specification.
As part of the update, the new Sonic Copper and Cobalt Mica hues are added to the LC’s colour palette, joining White Nova, Sonic Chrome, Sonic Iridium, Titanium, Graphite Black, Infrared, Zinnia Yellow and Khaki Metal. Carnelian and Deep Blue are discontinued.
The LC interior is available with new colour schemes for the leather-appointed upholstery, with Dark Rose replacing Flare Red. Manhattan Orange is discontinued.
| Model | Price |
| LC 500 Coupe | $204,635 |
| LC 500 Coupe + Enhancement Pack | $219,635 |
| LC 500h Coupe | $212,727 |
| LC 500 Convertible | $218,242 |
All plus on road costs