The Lexus LC is one of our favourite cars,
offering a compelling blend of exotic looks, intoxicating V8 noises and
performance and finely tuned dynamics. However, that hasn’t stopped Toyota’s
luxury division from tinkering with it, and the 2021 coupé – which joins the
new convertible model – is supposedly even better.
Many of the tweaks centre around the
chassis, with an eye on reducing weight. To that end, the 2021 LC sports new
aluminium lower suspension arms, a hollow anti-roll bar with a revised diameter,
a new high-strength coil spring material and lighter rear wheels for the
21-inch wheel option. Altogether, the changes result in a 10 kg saving, which
doesn’t sound like much until you realise that most of it is unsprung weight.
To capitalise on the added agility and
precision that brings, Lexus lengthened the stroke of the adaptive front
dampers and optimised the rigidity of the bump stops to create a smoother
overall suspension stroke. The rear anti-roll bar is also stiffer to help the
car turn in better and provide more linear steering input. The stability
control system also now features Active Cornering Assist (ACA), a form of
torque vectoring by braking. Also retuned are the transmissions on offer. The
LC 500’s 10-speed automatic – paired to the same 470 hp/540 Nm 5.0 litre
naturally-aspirated V8 as before – holds onto a gear for longer when the
throttle is in the “active zone” (between 50 and 70%) before shifting up,
enhancing the feeling of acceleration.
As for the LC 500h, the Multi Stage Hybrid
drivetrain, which combines the electric motor with a four-speed automatic to
simulate the feel of a 10-speeder, now downshifts to second instead of third.
This aids the car’s smoothness and improves acceleration coming out of
hairpins. The 294 hp/348 Nm 3.5 litre V6, contributing to the total system
output of 354 hp, remains unchanged.
There are very few revisions,
the stunningly edgy design thankfully left untouched. On the outside, the only
change is to the colour palette, with the introduction of Cadmium Orange paint
from the NX and UX. Nori Green Pearl, shown on last year’s limited edition
Inspiration Series, also makes a welcome appearance in the standard range of
hues.
Inside, Circuit Red leather replaces the
previous Rioja Red option, and the gorgeous Bespoke White colour scheme has
unfortunately been discontinued. The Remote Touch interface also finally gets
Android Auto connectivity, joining the already-standard Apple CarPlay in the
United States.
