Lexus was in a funk for a long time. The Japanese luxury brand seemed content with selling vehicles that were well past their prime at value prices to carve out a niche in the luxury segment. Everyone knows that Lexus has some of the best interiors in the market, but lags behind in the infotainment and powertrain department. Despite Lexus’ many, many, many flawed vehicles, the automaker makes one car that rises above as being a drool-worthy option that will make you weak in the knees – the Lexus LC 500 Convertible.
The LC 500 Convertible isn’t Lexus’ priciest vehicle, nor is it Lexus’ newest. What it is, is Lexus’ most honest vehicle. The LC 500 Convertible wears its intentions and heart on its sleeve. Take one glance at the convertible and you immediately know what it’s about – being a gorgeous, luxurious, grand tourer.
Hands down, the LC 500 Convertible is the best car in Lexus’ lineup.
Poster Car Looks
The LC 500 Convertible is stunning – even more so – than the standard LC 500 Coupe. There’s something about the soft-top roof that softens the sports car’s lines even further. Folding the roof down, stepping out of the vehicle, and looking at it from a few feet back will bring a tear to your eye.
Ultra-Luxurious Cabin
It’s common knowledge that Lexus has some of the best interiors in luxury class. The LC exhibits everything that’s good about Lexus’ cabins. It feels special with rich materials, a beautiful design, and excellent build quality. The infotainment system is something out of a nightmare and some of the controls are hard to use, but the seats are so comfortable and you’re entranced by the beauty of everything that you don’t really care.
A Proper V8 Engine
Forget about turbochargers or hybrids, the LC 500 Convertible, at least this one, comes with a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine. It’s pumping out a mighty 471 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. It’s the perfect engine for the car. Scruffy, punchy, characterful – it’s an ode to the glory of naturally aspirated V8s.
A True Grand Tourer
While the LC 500 Convertible goes like hell in a straight light and makes an ungodly sound, it’s better suited for those long cruises where time and the end location don’t matter. The convertible’s plush ride quality – even with 21-inch wheels – and relaxed handling make you want to slow down to enjoy the journey. The 10-speed automatic transmission can be hurried and Sport+ tightens everything up, but it doesn’t quite have the reflexes as a canyon carver. That’s fine. In fact, it’s good. There are plenty of sports cars out there. The world needs more cars that help you slow down and relax.
Somewhat Practical
Cars that look as good as the LC 500 are rarely practical. That goes double for convertibles. You’re paying a premium with both your wallet and your needs. There is some good news. The LC 500 Convertible has a set of rear seats with 28 inches of legroom, which is a lot for a luxury coupe. You also get 3.4 cubic feet of cargo space, which, well is really small. But it’s enough for a few bottles of wine, necessary groceries, and a duffel bag for a day trip. You can actually fit two small kids or medium-sized dogs in the back of the LC 500 Coupe. And the whole unlimited headroom aspect really makes the convertible feel a lot more spacious than the coupe.
The Verdict
Ignore the infotainment system and the Lexus LC 500 Convertible is the six-figure sports car you never knew you wanted. Look, there are quicker, faster, more agile sports cars on the market. And there are more high-tech options. But the LC 500 Convertible is part of a dying breed of true grand tourers where comfort takes precedence in a package that’s also enjoyable to drive and utterly breathtaking to behold. Overly plush, exquisite looks, an unforgettable V8, the LC 500 Convertible is everything that’s right with Lexus. It’s also the first Lexus that I immediately fell in love with.
