7 Reasons Why You Need To Get Know The 2017 Lexus LC 500

By Giles Milner, November 3, 2016

Lexus is a brand known for its premium but boring range of vehicles. From the compact BMW wanna-be IS saloon to the executive LS, they even offer a compact hatchback or rather used to but have dropped the model due to poor sales. Of course, they’ve built a few sports cars and supercars in their time which negates the boring image. Perhaps one notable example to date is the V10-powered LFA supercar. The motoring press is getting excited about one new model that’s slated for release in 2017. The Lexus LC 500 is a new sports car, although the Japanese firm refers to it as a grand tourer. If you’re lusting after a premium sports car (sorry, GT!), here are 7 reasons why the LC 500 could be for you:

You already know what it looks like

The new Lexus LC 500 is actually based on a concept car the firm showcased back in 2012, the LF-LC. It’s likely there will be a few changes between the two models. But, for the most part, the styling and design are pretty much identical. At least you know the car will look amazing when it goes on sale!

It’s going to have a beefy V8 engine

As you might expect, the new Lexus LC 500 will boast a lot of horsepower! It will debut with a 5.0 V8 as used in the current RC F and GS F models. As standard, it will produce 468 horsepower and all without a turbocharger in sight!

It could have a 10-speed automatic transmission

Lexus have worked on a new 10-speed automatic gearbox, and it’s likely it will feature in the LC 500. The thing about today’s automatics is they are quite intelligent. No slush boxes here! And the more forward gears you have, the smoother the shifting. The result? A more efficient experience, both on the road and the track.

There’s going to be a hybrid version

One option available to customers is the Lexus LC 500h and, as you know, the “h” means hybrid! Lexus has a clear vision for greener motoring, regardless of horsepower. According to Inchcape Lexus, the hybrid drive system is most useful for city driving. So, if you don’t make long journeys, the LC 500h won’t be a gas guzzler. The doors and roof will be made of aluminum and carbon fiber to minimise the overall weight which in turn will enhance the handling.

Plenty of cow as standard

The interior of the Lexus LC 500 is a haven for those that enjoy cars with full leather upholstery. It also includes plenty of Alcantara, a stain-resistant material made of polyester and polyurethane. Lexus wants drivers and passengers to feel comfortable in any of their models. The LC 500 is no exception.

It’ll give the German Big Three a run for their money

Another thing Lexus wants to do is eat up more of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz’s share of the premium car market. The company has made some headway in that department but still lag behind in European markets. With the release of the LC 500, Lexus hope to get more snotty nosed Europeans behind the wheel of a Lexus!

You won’t want to buy another car

That’s my opinion of course but you may likely hold onto the LC 500 for some years. Why? Because it’s a Lexus. Unfortunately, you’ll have to wait until Spring 2017 to buy one. Lexus has yet to set a UK price but we expect it to be around £100k GBP.