It’s been over three years since I last drove the Lexus LC. However, the memories remain fresh because of how outstanding this grand tourer is, especially in the underappreciated hybrid variant, the LC 500h. Now that Lexus has discontinued the electrified LC model, it’s time to look back and celebrate just how far ahead it is. Spoiler alert: the Lexus LC 500h brings on the fun times. And it does so while coddling you in opulence thanks to its impeccable cabin appointments, supportive seats, and world-class build quality.
Lexus LC 500h: Incredibly Eccentric Hybrid
Lexus jammed one hell of a complex powertrain in the LC 500h. Alongside the LS sedan, this car uses the Multi-Stage Hybrid system. In this application, it coupled a 3.5-liter V6, two electric motors, and a planetary gear set with an integrated four-speed automatic transmission. Got all that? Yeah, it’s crazy. In total, this system made 354 hp. That’s significantly less than the V8-powered LC 500, but still plenty, and it all goes to the rear wheels.
Don’t let that lower power rating fool you. The LC 500h puts a huge smile on your face. You’ll look for an excuse to go out for a drive. The torque from the electric motors gave this big GT instant response. Together with the smooth-revving V6, the hybrid LC accelerated effortlessly despite its 4,410-lb. curb weight. That intricate transmission setup mimics a 10-speed automatic. However, it’s obvious when the shifts come from the four-speed and when they’re simulated, which can feel odd. The former handles first, fourth, eighth, and tenth, while everything else comes via the planetary gear set.
Size-Defying Road Manners
The Lexus LC 500h was far from a lightweight. Yet it moved like a smaller, much lighter vehicle. Features like rear-wheel steering, Adaptive Variable Suspension, and a Torsen limited-slip differential all contribute to its impressive agility. It did exactly what you wanted. This car felt connected and engaging, slicing through corners like a scalpel. Best of all, it’s easy to get the LC 500h to do exactly what you want, especially with its quick and direct steering. It’ll kick out whenever you want it to, and it’s happy to simply chill and cruise.
Impeccable ride quality gives the LC 500h incredible balance. The Adaptive Variable Suspension enhances that even further, all while retaining its agile handling. Even with the 21-inch wheels that my test car came with, this thing simply glided through all types of road imperfections. Best of all, it never lost its composure. The LC 500h remained confident through poorly maintained roads and took everything in stride.
A Rare Breed
Among sports cars, the LC 500h stood out because of its hybrid powertrain. When it first arrived in 2018, electrified performance cars were few and far between, especially under half a million dollars. The LC 500h’s closest competitors back then? The BMW i8 and Acura NSX. Eventually, the Polestar 1 joined the mix. Electrified super sedans like the Porsche Panamera Turbo S e-Hybrid existed, but actual sports cars? Nope.
For that reason, the Lexus LC 500h stood out. When spec’d properly, it brought so much joy behind the wheel. However, without features like rear-wheel steering, a limited-slip differential, adaptive variable suspension, and the 21-inch wheels with summer tires, it turned into an oversteer-happy coupe. This spectrum of personalities made it stand out, both good and bad. Regardless, it commanded attention, and if you equipped yours right, it’s a true joy to drive.
The LC 500h goes down as a rare breed that’s way ahead of its time. Its complex powertrain proves the viability of hybrid systems for performance cars, especially when combined with a finely tuned chassis. This car exemplified the grand touring sports cars of the future, a smooth, long-distance cruiser that can tear up canyon roads and have a lot of fun. So cheers to you, LC Hybrid, thanks for showing us the future. We’re excited to see how the foundations you started shape the future of performance cars!
