The Lexus LC 500 channels the look and feel of a European grand tourer, being just as luxurious and comfortable but packed with the latest tech and Lexus-like levels of reliability. Available as a coupe or convertible, the LC got an update for the 2024 model year that brought a new touchscreen-based infotainment system in place of the detested old touchpad system. That is a very good thing. (For 2025, the LC gets additional underfloor bracing but is otherwise unchanged.)
Related: 2024 Lexus LC 500 Convertible Review: The Last Truly Luxe Lexus?
Beyond that, the LC remains largely the same. Eight model years into its production run, this Lexus remains an opulent and accommodating choice for a day spent chewing up the miles. With its refined and powerful powertrain, impeccably furnished cabin, and distinctive style, the LC didn’t need anything else.
Cars.com Detroit Bureau Chief Aaron Bragman spent some time getting to know an updated LC 500 convertible, and he found that it may be the most beautiful, luxurious and well-finished Lexus currently available. Tap the link above to read Bragman’s expert review; for a quicker rundown, read on for a look at six things we like about the Lexus LC 500 and two things we don’t.
What Do We Like About the Lexus LC?
1. A Look of its Own
In an age of countless interchangeably styled SUVs and sedans, the LC stands out — something Lexus deserves credit for, whether you’re a fan of the LC’s smartly creased look or not. The coupe is arguably the better looking of the two body styles, but for fans of open-air motoring, the tight and easily operated droptop is the only way to go. Best of all, the top doesn’t take up any trunk room when lowered.
2. Bespoke Option
Taking a page from the imported exotic car playbook, Lexus added a Bespoke Build option to the LC convertible for 2024. Rather than a more traditional fixed menu of color and trim choices, Bespoke Build lets owners further personalize their vehicle by choosing their own combination of paint, top color, interior shades, wheels and more.
3. Interior Quality
Lexus built its reputation partly on its well-built and upscale interiors, though some recent offerings haven’t been up to the levels of earlier models. The LC is an exception, taking Lexus quality and opulence to another level. Attractively styled and solidly built with outstanding materials, the LC’s cabin offers big, comfortable front seats and plenty of room for two up front. (It does have a rear seat, but it’s not suitably sized for humans.)
4. New Infotainment
The best part of the 2024 update was that the LC finally lost its old trackpad infotainment system controls in favor of the more conventional touchscreen found in other new Lexus models. With a 12.3-inch screen running a version of Lexus’ latest multimedia system, the upgrade is a huge improvement even though we’re not crazy about the lack of a home screen button. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are part of the package.
5. Powertrain
While many luxury brands continue the migration to smaller turbocharged engines and electric powertrains, the LC sticks with a normally aspirated 5.0-liter V-8 that’s powerful, refined and has a glorious throaty soundtrack when pushed. Its 471 horsepower and 398 pounds-feet of torque may not sound like much by today’s standards, but matched with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a choice of driving modes, the LC is just as capable of fierce acceleration as it is cruising around town.
6. Ride Quality
The LC 500 rides exceptionally well, with a supple and well-damped feel regardless of which driving mode is chosen. True to its mission as a cruiser rather than a canyon carver, the LC is free of any aggressive track modes or stiffer settings; still, it’s perfectly capable of hustling along when desired, with decent if not sports-car-like steering feel. The brakes are big and powerful, capable of repeated hard stops with no noticeable fade.
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What Do We Dislike About the Lexus LC?
1. Visibility and Headroom
A steeply raked windshield and low profile take a toll on headroom, and taller drivers may find their noggin in regular contact with the top’s headliner. While not ideal, at least the fabric is soft and stretchy. Visibility is also limited when the top is up.
Of course, both of these are nonissues when the top is down. The better news is that we experienced virtually no buffeting in the cabin with the top down, windows up and detachable rear wind blocker in place.
2. Electronic Glitches
Our experience with the LC 500 was largely positive, which makes a few minor glitches that much more noticeable. The memory seats in our test car didn’t work properly, and some of the steering-wheel button controls were sticky and unresponsive.
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