5 Unique Features of the New Lexus LC500

1. Front-Engine, Rear-Drive

The LC500 will have a 5.0-liter V-8 (the same naturally-aspirated engine in the RC F and GS F), but it's positioned behind the front-axle centerline. The LC500 will go from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, and will also be outfitted with the smallest-diameter torque converter that's ever been used in one of their models, as well as aluminum gears. Rear-drive was the goal here, with a front-to-rear weight distribution of 52/48, made possible in part by a trunk-mounted battery. 

2. Unyielding Unibody

With the LC500, Lexus aimed to develop the most structurally sound chassis of any Lexus ever. The LC500's unibody is stiffer than that of the LFA and uses an amount of high-strength steel previously unmatched by any other model. What's more, the suspension mounts and links, as well as the door skins, are made of aluminum, which helps to explain the LC500's curb weight of two tons. 

3. The Interior

The interior of the LC500 is exquisite, with its magnesium shift paddles mounted behind the steering wheel and floating door handles with no bezels whatsoever. The door panels were constructed using carbon fiber, and there will be an optional carbon-fiber sunroof. The interior goes hand-in-hand with high-performance, featuring thicker, sturdier trim and even a handle for the passenger to grab onto. The design provides peace of mind that everything will be held in place, leaving the driver to simply think about what's most important; driving. 

4. The Exterior

Although the LC500's overall exterior design is not shockingly drastic from what we've seen from other Lexus high-performance cars, it does have a few assets that will make it characteristically an LC500. The spindle grille accentuates a more geometric effect when looking at the angular headlights, which extend downward vertically, almost as if they're dripping. The taillights mimic the headlights, drooping both downward and stretching horizontally around while pulling off a streamlined, fluid look. 

5. To Be a Sports Car, or Not to Be a Sports Car

Most noticeably, the wheels sit much wider, especially for a car that's not being touted as a sports car. Many will look at the low cowl height and think that the LC500 is most comparable to a sports car like the LFA, and it is, but it's definitely still a two-door coupe predominantly. A unique aspect of the LC500 is that it won't just be bought for its luxury or reliability that's come to be expected from Lexus. It will most certainly be desired for its high-performance. The LC500 lingers somewhere in between, making it a uniquely designed masterpiece that Lexus lovers can't wait to get their hands on. 

Join the LC500 conversation right here in the Club Lexus Forum.

For maintenance and repair guides, browse our technical How-to articles at http://clublexus.com/how-tos!