2021 Lexus LC 500, 500h First Look: Better Performance, Same Gorgeous Face

After debuting the stunning LC Convertible late last year, Lexus is turning its attention back to the coupe, which for the new model year gets a lot of the same updates as the Convertible. Along with new color choices, the 2021 Lexus LC 500 and 500h receive suspension and transmission updates for better performance. And the coupe is also shedding some pounds.

That weight loss—nearly 22 pounds in unsprung weight, in total—comes courtesy of aluminum lower suspension arms, hollow stabilizers, new high-strength coil spring material, and lighter 21-inch rear wheels. Less unsprung weight has ride and handling benefits, and to accentuate that Lexus adjusted the electronic absorber controls of the front suspension to increase the length of the stroke, and then optimized the bump stops for enhanced smoothness. To improve front turn-in ability, Lexus boosted rigidity in the rear stabilizers and added Active Cornering Assist, which uses the brakes to slow the inner wheels when cornering hard to reduce understeer.

Transmission updates should make the coupes even sharper. On the LC 500’s 10-speed automatic, Lexus updated the shift logic for better performance in the 50-70 percent throttle range. The hybrid model’s weird four-speed auto/CVT setup has also been updated, and will now kick down into second gear during spirited driving to improve acceleration out of a tight corner. Previously, it was only programmed to downshift as far as third gear in that situation.

Engine options haven’t changed. The 2021 LC 500’s 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V-8 makes 471 hp and 398 lb-ft, enough to propel the coupe to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. Likewise, the 500h still delivers 354 hp from its 3.5-liter V-6 hybrid setup. It takes a little longer to reach 60, making it in 5 seconds flat.

Now onto some of the smaller changes. Two spicy paint colors join the lineup: Cadmium Orange (which debuted on the Convertible) and Nori Green Pearl (which previously debuted on the Inspiration Series limited edition for the 2020 LC). A refreshed 20-inch forged alloy wheel option with Dark Graphite finish is available. Inside the cabin, a Flare Red leather interior replaces Rioja Red, and the Bespoke White leather option has been discontinued. Android Auto has been added to the car’s finnicky infotainment system, and it’s a standard feature on all LC vehicles.

You can very well spend six figures on these cars. The 2021 Lexus LC 500 gets a starting price of at $93,975, while the 500h goes from $98,535. Lexus expects the cars to start arriving in dealerships next month.

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