Leaving convention behind
focus on the extremely wide rear haunches. The bold shape — mix of high strength steel, alloy panels and composites — is tautly drawn around the 21- inch forged alloy wheels. Concealed door handles that pop out when touched provide a high- tech first acquaintance with the car.
Looks alone should bring new attention to the Lexus marque while the V8 exhaust note will also turn heads. The luxurious cabin has semi- aniline leather trim in glass roof models and a mix of leather and alcantara in the Carbon Roof model while cast magnesium shift paddles are a cool detail touch.
Lexus NZ is not sure how sales will split between V8 and hybrid models but the first car sold to a New Zealand customer is a hybrid. And with about 40 per cent of all Lexus sales in NZ being hybrids, it’s not far- fetched to think the sales split between LC models might follow that pattern.
Price isn’t a consideration for potential customers weighing up the powertrain choice. The standard glass roof LC 500 and LC500h models are $ 215,000 and the alternative Carbon Roof model — also in both powertrain options — is $ 220,000.
The $ 5000 premium doesn’t just provide the lightweight roof but also sharpens the chassis with the Lexus Dynamic Handling System that includes variable ratio steering, dynamic rear steering and a Torsen limited slip differential. There’s also sports seats with some prominent
shoulder bolsters in a combination alcantara and semianiline leather trim plus carbon fibre scuff plates and a power retractable rear spoiler.
Other spec highlights include a 13- speaker/ 900- watt Mark Levinson premium audio system, 10.25- inch TFT colour display with satellite navigation, head- up display, smart entry and start. and heated/ ventilated front seats.
Eight airbags, a reversing camera, front and rear park sensors, blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert are standard and the Lexus Safety System+ comprises all- speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre- crash system with autonomous braking, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Alert and Automatic High Beam control. The Lexus LC is available in 12 exterior
colours. The Lexus LC 500h and LC 500 are priced from $ 215,000.