Optimized Connectivity, New Multimedia System
The Lexus LC lineup, starting production in May, benefits from various enhancements. The LC 500h Coupe, powered by a rechargeable hybrid V6 engine, and the LC 500 Coupe and Cabriolet, equipped with an exceptional 5.0-liter V8 engine, all undergo these improvements.
In the 2024 model, the Lexus LC receives an upgraded multimedia system featuring a larger and more user-friendly screen. This high-definition 12.3-inch touchscreen replaces the previous 10-inch screen controlled by a touchpad on the center console. To optimize ergonomics, the new screen is positioned 86mm closer to the driver. Furthermore, the multimedia system can now be operated using the “Hey Lexus” voice assistant, allowing drivers or front passengers to execute around 100 different commands, such as adjusting the climate control, conducting internet searches, or making phone calls.
The system can store the preferences of up to three different users, including navigation settings, audio preferences, safety alerts, and driving positions.
Smartphones seamlessly integrate with the multimedia system using wireless or wired Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto connections. The Lexus Link smartphone app enables remote control of door locking/unlocking, as well as pre-setting the climate control or heating before entering the vehicle.
Another notable feature is cloud-based navigation, providing real-time traffic information for accurate route planning and quick alternative solutions to unexpected events. Additional useful information, such as local fuel prices and parking locations, can be accessed via the cloud using the “Hey Lexus” command. In case of unavailable cloud connection, the integrated navigation system takes over.
With the removal of the multimedia touchpad, the controls on the center console have been rearranged for better ergonomics. The console now includes an aluminum button for the audio system, accompanied by touchscreen controls easily accessible to both front seat occupants. The rear storage space of the console features a 12-volt accessory socket, a USB-C port for device charging, and a USB-A port for high-resolution audio playback.
To deliver exceptional sound fidelity, the speakers located in the rear seat backs and side of the dashboard have been upgraded. The Lexus LC series comes standard with the Mark Levinson Surround Sound System, boasting 13 speakers akin to a high-quality home audio system.
New Interior Color Combinations
The LC Coupe and Cabriolet interior trim now offer a new two-tone harmony, Blue & White, which exudes elegance and spaciousness. Additionally, a solid Garnet shade adds a sportier ambiance.
The Blue & White harmony extends blue reflections to the steering wheel, shift knob, lower door trims, and door sills. In contrast, the Grenat interior contrasts dark black elements with deep red applied to the seats, center console, instrument cluster, and door handle trims.
Subtle enhancements further enhance the Lexus LC interior. The passenger-side dashboard, previously made of acrylic, now matches the instrument cluster finish. The seat material selection has been renewed, and the LC Coupe’s Sport+ version features carbon door sills.
New Paint and Wheel Choices
Two new paint colors are introduced for the Lexus LC. Blue Sapphire is a bright and pure blue with strong contrasts of light and shadow that amplify the elegance of the LC’s body. Copper Basson is a chromatic hue with red reflections that deepen with diminishing light.
All Lexus LC vehicles now come standard with a 360° panoramic view system, which allows for reshaped side mirror housings to enhance aerodynamics and reduce wind noise.
Two new alloy wheel options are available: 21-inch 3D-finished wheels or 21-inch dual-tone black and hyper-chrome finished wheels.
Enriched Lexus Safety System +
All Lexus LC models benefit from the enhanced Lexus Safety System +, offering additional features to assist the driver in accident prevention.
The pre-collision safety system, previously detecting vehicles and pedestrians, now includes cyclist detection during the day. Intersection assistance helps the driver navigate left and right turns more safely in traffic. Emergency steering assist automatically performs minor corrective actions on the steering wheel to prevent unintended lane departures when activated. Automatic reading of road signs enables the vehicle to quickly adjust speed based on speed limit signs. The dynamic radar cruise control, which adjusts the vehicle’s speed relative to the preceding vehicle, now includes a curve speed reduction function to automatically adjust speed during turns according to the curve radius.
Unparalleled Driving Pleasure
The “Lexus Driving Signature,” born with the LC, allows drivers to feel directly and faithfully connected to their vehicle. This philosophy has since been applied to the development of all other Lexus models, and it is at the core of the LC 2024.
Modifications have been made to the coil springs, shock absorber tuning, rear suspension arms, stabilizer bars, underbody reinforcements, steering column and box attachment, axle hub bearing, and wheel attachment. The front engine mounts have also been revised, reducing the gap between the vehicle body and the engine. These improvements provide more precise steering response and a better road feel.
Furthermore, the electronic brake system has been optimized to deliver a more natural and seamless braking experience.
The 10-speed automatic transmission has also been enhanced to better anticipate the driver’s intentions in Drive mode. The transmission now offers sportier driving characteristics in SPORT S and SPORT S+ modes. When used in Drive mode, SPORT S+ provides a driving experience closer to that of a manual transmission, selecting the ideal gear for optimal acceleration and deceleration and performing downshifts during braking.
For circuit driving, the V8-powered Lexus LC Coupe and Cabriolet now offer an Expert mode that deactivates traction control, allowing drivers to experience controlled slides.
To further enhance performance, the lithium-ion battery in the LC 500h hybrid coupe has increased capacity cells. This enables faster power delivery, improving responsiveness and acceleration.
Lexus LC Ultimate Edition: An Impressive Presence!
Available from September production, the special Ultimate Edition series for the Lexus LC Coupe and Cabriolet with V8 engines takes refinement and performance to the next level with specific engine tuning.
The Ultimate Edition’s Blanc Hakugin paint features an elegant matte finish and refined texture inspired by traditional Japanese porcelain. This exclusive effect, achieved using a satin lacquer topcoat, contrasts with black elements of the body. At the front, black accents adorn the grille, headlight surrounds, washer covers, bumper trims, and exterior mirrors. At the rear, this color scheme extends to the taillight housings, lower bumper, and exhaust tip.
A first in the automotive world, the LC’s front bumper incorporates “canards,” aerodynamic devices inspired by aviation and motorsport. These canards improve vehicle stability and handling by regulating airflow along the vehicle’s sides and reducing front-end lift.
Another distinctive aerodynamic feature is the Coupe’s black carbon rear wing. Inspired by Lexus’ partnership with Japanese aerobatic and race pilot Yoshihide “Yoshi” Muroya, the wing derives from expertise gained in air racing.
The Lexus LC Ultimate Editions also feature an exclusive Blue Kachi interior color, considered a lucky color in Japan since ancient times when threads used for samurai armor were of a bluish-black shade known as Kachi-Iro or “winning color.” The Ultimate Edition’s interior also includes an aluminum plate displaying the car’s serial number in front of the gearshift, Alcantara on the center console and door trim, and door sills with “Limited Edition” branding.
Finally, the engine of the Lexus LC Ultimate Edition is meticulously fine-tuned by a Lexus Takumi master craftsman to deliver smoother operation, high-quality sound, and improved acceleration response. The rear differential is also adjusted by a Takumi master to optimize acceleration response.
With its enhanced features and performance, the Lexus LC 2024 exemplifies the pinnacle of luxury and driving pleasure. Coupled with its exquisite design and attention to detail, it sets a new standard in the world of premium sports cars.
For more information about the Lexus LC 2024, visit Ratingperson.