Lexus LC 500 is a gentleman's GT

MOTORING NEWS - With the LC 500, Lexus has carved itself a niche in which luxury, performance and price converge.

The distinctive styling of the LC combines traditional Lexus traits like the spindle grille with other special features, as designers had the benefit of working on a completely new GA-L (Global Architecture-Luxury) platform, designed for new generations of front engine, rear-wheel drive Lexus models.

Engineers also faced the challenge of having to build a car that remains true to the concept of LF-LC with a defining low roof. The car also needed to match the LC concept in accommodating a sport suspension and 21" forged alloy wheels. At the same time, all powertrain, chassis and safety components had to be housed while still providing comfortable headroom in the cabin.

To make the concept reality, the front suspension components went through six months of reworking until the required low hood line was achieved without compromising suspension performance.

Another ingenious solution developed is the new ultra-slim LED headlight unit design which allowed the LC to retain an exceptionally short, sport front overhang.

The sweeping roofline tapers towards the rear between muscular, sloping fender tops which underscore the car's wide and stable stance. The characteristic Lexus spindle shape is repeated in the rear fascia.

The underbody is almost completely smooth. Even the rear muffler is angled like a diffuser, to play its part in aerodynamic sleekness.

An active rear spoiler is available to automatically deploy when the vehicle's speed rises above 80km. This reduces lift to enhance stability at higher speed.

Air ducts are featured just in front of the rear wheel arches, serving a highly practical function as well as contributing to the dynamic styling. These feed air into the wheel arch and allow it to exit smoothly across the sidewall of the tyre.

This further contributes to the car's high speed, straight-line stability and steering responsiveness. It also generates improved grip feel from the rear tyres, for example when changing lanes. The local market will be getting only the naturally aspirated V8. Since these engines are becoming increasingly rare, this configuration LC 500 might be considered even more desireable.