Lovable 2018 Lexus LC 500 Is a ‘Good Value,’ Says CNBC
LC 500 coupe is exciting and eye-catching inside and out, but it’s not totally devoid of flaws, asserts new review.
Concept cars have one main purpose: to stun the people who attend auto shows. They feature futuristic body work that signals the future design direction of automakers, technologies and accents that may or may not make it into production, and interiors that wouldn’t look out of place in a sci-fi action movie. Every now and then, automakers are able to make an eye-popping show car into a production vehicle with minimal changes. Lexus accomplished that feat, keeping most of what made the LF-LC concept a knockout intact as the LC 500 coupe.
There’s a big catch to doing that, though. While many concept cars can only be evaluated based on their looks and on-paper stats, the few that make it into production can be driven and picked apart by automotive journalists all over the world.
CNBC recently got its hands on the 2018 LC 500 ($105,614 as tested). They start their time with the LC by bombing down a long road with gentle curves, letting the 5.0-liter V8 rev up and the 10-speed automatic snap through each gear. The faster the LC goes, the more happiness it creates.
Despite weighing more than two tons, the LC feels as if it’s a smaller and lighter car. According to CNBC: “Part of that is the low center of gravity, part of it is genuinely great chassis tuning, and part of it is due to the LC 500’s four-wheel steering system that’s included in the performance package.”
The Alcantara-, aluminum-, and leather-lined cabin gets praise for its use of materials and long-distance comfort…for those in front. As is the case with most modern performance coupes, the back seat is effectively useless for people and better suited for carrying small cargo. CNBC also finds the infotainment system and its trackpad-based user interface leaves a lot to be desired. The naturally aspirated V8 may be a rare breed, but many of its rivals from European brands are stronger and faster.
Those shortcomings aside, the LC is a lovable machine with unforgettable looks, sharp handling, and character. It offers so much excitement, comfort, and style in its price range that CNBC goes so far as to call it a “good value.” After driving one at the Texas Auto Writers Association’s 2018 Texas Auto Roundup, we’d call it a “great car.”
Photos: CNBC.
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