2018 Lexus LC 500: A Bold Mix of Luxury and Panache Perfect for the American Market

Mar 28, 2017 10:43 AM EDT | BC Tabotabo

The 2018 Lexus LC 500 first got the world excited when it was previewed by the LF-LC concept back in 2012. While this car was never meant to see production, public demand made it happen. This car looks too amazing not to be driven around in everyday life.

According to a report by Forbes, the average auto shopper will have a list of traits that they are looking for. This usually includes fuel efficiency, reliability, quality, safety, and convenience features. Consumers don't readily mention this trait that is perhaps the most important selling point of all: LOOKS.

A lot of people don't want to admit this but looks count. While it sounds superficial, exterior styling is always among the top priorities for a car buyer. This is where the Lexus LC500 comes in. The flashy new sedan offers the fuel efficiency, reliability, quality, safety, and convenience features that everyone is looking for. And it also provides a stunningly beautiful design.

In another report by Wheels, the 2018 Lexus LC 500 is a true standout. It is a top choice and offers what no other coupe has: a high-performance V8 engine coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It also has an amazing hybrid option - the LC 500h - that offers a new-generation Multi-Stage Hybrid powertrain.

The LC 500's V8 engine is capable of 471 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of peak torque. It can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in less than 4.5 seconds. And don't forget that revving sound! This luxury coupe rumbles and roars much like any high-performance GT would.

Another important selling point to look at is the luxury vehicle's size. It was destined for American buyers. While Lexus is a Japanese brand, the automaker was well aware that the US market would be really into the LC500.

In another report, Forbes stated that the vehicle was built as an American-size coupe. It is 11 inches longer and 1.5 inches taller than the Jaguar F-Type, one of its top competitors. While the LC 500 is not a sports car per se, the optional sport package makes it very close. It adds an active rear spoiler, firmer seats, sophisticated transmission shift programming, and a premium carbon-fiber roof.

The new LC500 uses a rear-drive platform which will form the basis of future rear-drive models. It also uses high-strength steel compared to other Lexus models, with an equally stiff and rigid chassis. It does save some weight on its aluminum door skins, bumpers, and suspension mounts.

The fun driving factor can be attributed to the location of the driver's hip point which is close to the car's center of gravity. This helps the car feel more stable and balanced.

The steering feel was also designed to increase the steering angle so that the car would feel like its floating softly across the highway. However, it can still offer a confident and adventurous ride when the roads are empty. Don't forget about the massive brakes too. Its six piston front and four piston rear calipers are perfect for scrubbing off its speed.

The 2018 Lexus LC 500 is already available and will make a bang in the US market. Competitors such as the Porsche Cayman, Jaguar F-Type, Porsche 911, Mercedes-Benz SLC, BMW 6 Series and coupes from Aston Martin and Maserati have a new kid in town to watch out for!

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