Lexus LC500: Bargain GT Car for Aspiring Celebrities
Lexus LC500 draws the same attention and interest as cars costing three times as much. And that’s just the beginning.
The Lexus LC500 is a car so stunningly styled, we oftentimes forget about its many other attributes. But how can you possibly overlook something so downright striking? It isn’t often that automakers have the cojones to actually sell something that looks nearly identical to a concept car. And yet, here we are. So you can’t blame Digital Trends for lamenting over the Lexus LC500 and its good looks in their recent review. But once they (somewhat) get past the stunning exterior, they found a lot of other things to like about it, too.
First up – the glorious naturally-aspirated, 5.0-liter power. Digital Trends calls the throwback engine “a smooth, soulful beast that appreciates a rigorous exercise regimen.” And while they found it difficult to get the tail out on hard corners, this is a car built to be a grand tourer, not a track monster.
“Long, sweeping curves suit the LC500’s character well, but the car shines just as brightly when traversing great distances. Two 300-mile road trips proved the effectiveness of Lexus’ damper tuning and cabin insulation; rough roads and blustering winds do little to disturb passenger comfort.”
All of which pretty much confirms what we already know about the Lexus LC500. But Digital Trends makes an excellent point about something nobody else is talking about. We’re referring to the fact that this nearly $100k car might actually be a bargain.
“For a $100K vehicle to draw the same attention and interest as a cars costing more than double is incredible,” says Digital Trends. “Even in a subtle color like our nightfall mica (dark blue) tester, the LC500 is dazzling. Futuristic styling, a powerful stance, and an elegant silhouette deliver as lasting an impact as the LFA of 2010.”
Most comparison tests, including this one, note that German “rivals” offer more performance for your money. But none of them offer the same experience.
“Every minute behind the wheel of the Lexus LC500 is a moment of celebrity. Dashing good looks, sublime road manners, and a sonorous V8 make for a grand tourer reminiscent of vaunted nameplates like Aston Martin’s DB11. At this price point, no other 2+2 offers the same theater or stylistic daring style.”