2023 Lexus LC 500h: The Brand’s Flagship Luxury Hybrid Coupe

2023 Lexus LC 500h (Photo Credit: JeffCars.com)

Highlight: The hybrid coupe has a fuel driving range of 644 miles on a full tank of gasoline.

Test Vehicle's MSRP: $ 118,260  Base Model MSRP: $98,850 (non hybrid model)

Seating Capacity: 2 (rear seating for small kids)

Standard Safety Features: ABS; a rear back up camera; a pre collision system with pedestrian detection; a lane keep assist system; a lane departure alert system with steering assist; a radar activated cruise control system; a first aid kit; a tire pressure monitoring system; a temporary spare tire; a blind spot monitor system; heated auto dimming outside rearview mirrors; and a rear cross traffic alert system

Standard Equipment (Test Model): 21-inch wheels; flush type door handles with an illuminated open; a 3-spoke steering wheel; power front seats with driver’s seat memory with lumbar support; a driver select mode; aluminum scuff plates; deodorizing and dust/pollen removing air filter; a power tilt/telescopic steering wheel; Siri eyes free system; a keyless push button starter system; a 10-in infotainment screen; and a navigation system

Other Trims:

LC 500 Convertible

LC 500 V8 engine

Options: a Bespoke Build Package – a custom built special order; Alcantara sport seats; dark chrome trim around grille and windows; headlamps, taillamps and rear fender; 21-in forged alloy wheel with summer tires; a heads-up display (HUD); a 13-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound audio system; a carbon air wing rear spoiler; carbon fiber scuff plates; a carbon fiber roof; and Alcantara with Manhattanhenge interior color

2023 Lexus LC 500h (Photo Credit: JeffCars.com

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Standard Audio on Test Vehicle: a 12-speaker audio system with AM/FM/HD with SiriusXM

Bluetooth Connectivity: Standard

USB Connectivity: Standard

Apple/Android Connectivity: Standard

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles

Hybrid Battery Warranty: 8 years or 100,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 3.5-liter, 6-cylinder engine/ 354-hp

Recommended Fuel: Premium

Standard Fuel Mileage: 26-city/33-hwy

What’s New: For the 2023 model year, the suspension system has been enhanced.

Why:

A host of standard of driving aid features

A variety of powertrains: hybrid and a V8

The hybrid model has a driving range of 644 miles

Powerful, seamless acceleration

Based on a RWD platform

Comfortable supportive seating

Stunning exterior design

Eye-popping interior colors and design

A heads up display (HUD)

A convertible model available

20 and 21-inch wheels available

A concert-like optional 13-speaker audio system

A rear wing spoiler available

A variety of wheel options

A radar activated cruise control system

A high level of standard of safety driving aids

But: 

No hybrid convertible

A limited rear seating area

A confusing touch pad controller

No AWD model available

Not a fan of the stick-on rear spoiler; one needs to be designed to integrate with the vehicle

Verdict: Lexus LC 500 is the brand’s halo vehicle. The stylish two-door coupe finds a perfect balance of mixing both modern and futuristic design cues, with its low-slung hood, to make this eye-catching premium luxury coupe a head turner. Although the vehicle is outfitted with a backseat, its literally for small kids and/or for carrying items that might not fit into the snug trunk. 

The LC 500 is available in two powertrains, an 8-cylinder engine and a fuel-efficient 6-cylinder hybrid. Like with every other feature found in this vehicle from the optional vibrant color of the Alcantara sport seats to the concert sounding 13-speaker Mark Levinson audio system with a CD player, the smooth shifting hybrid engine underneath the hood doesn’t mean one has to sacrifice power. In fact, the high-end sports coupe we tested pushed out 354-horsepower from its chrome dual exhaust tailpipes, all while flanked by optional 21-inch black wheels and what seems like a pop-on rear spoiler.

Moreover, the LC 500, which is available only in a rear-wheel drive, can be configured as a coupe or a dreamy drop top convertible. While the LC 500 offers the look we would expect from a car in this league. However, despite the suspension enhancement, the vehicle feels and drive like a luxury cruiser, as opposed to a tuned sports car with a stiff ride. And that's okay by us!

Competition: BMW 840i Coupe

Near Competitor: Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster