2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible Review: Baby LFA
Regardless of the usually mundane silver color, the 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible managed to turn heads like no other. Even its non-convertible model still attracts attention with its sleek, yet aggressive design lines.
The iconic Lexus front grille had a unique design the mimics a net like material. in the smaller areas at the top it appears compressed and at the bottom it appears to be stretched out to cover the larger area. The gun metal color appears chrome to a dark black depending on the angle of the light. Triple projector LED headlamps light the way if you decided to go out on a night drive, while the arrowhead LED are on during the daytime. With this being the convertible, I had the top down the entire time, which took about 15 seconds to do.
With the top being down, I was able to show off the bright red leather interior. Even though this is considered a 2+2, don’t count on using the rear seats for anything other than insurance savings over a true 2 seater.
One of the unique things that the LC 500 offers is its moving tachometer. Press a button and it moves to the right to uncover a LCD screen to offer you data like your MPGs and tire pressure. Press the button again and it centers itself and lets you focus on your RPMs. You’ll want to pay attention because in manual mode, the 10-speed will not shift regardless of you bouncing the needle on the rev limiter. Not to worry because our loaner had the HUD option, to show you when to shift while keeping your eyes on the road.
I always say “V6 engines don’t sound bad, V8s just sound better”, and that is true for the Lexus LC 500. The 5.0L V8 outputting 471HP and 398 lb.-ft of torque made it easy to get this 4,500 lb car moving! The traction control allowed enough wheel slippage to run chills through your body, but controlled it enough to make sure you were safe. Downshifting the 10-speed automatic rewarded you with the most satisfying pops and bangs from the exhaust.
Concluding my week with the 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible, had me wishing I had the $110k it cost to tell Lexus that I’ll be keeping it. I’ve never driven an LFA but have seen and heard one, and the LC 500 is definitely deserves the title of baby LFA.