When it comes to blending luxury, performance and style, the 2023 Lexus LC 500 Convertible is an exceptional creation. The topless sibling to the Coupe version, it embodies a seamless combination of elegance, power, and craftsmanship.
With its eye-catching design, refined interior, and exhilarating driving dynamics, this convertible promised to deliver an unforgettable driving experience. To find out if it did just that, you’ll have to read on.
We drove the Lexus north along the beautiful windy coastal roads from the Central Coast to sunny Port Stephens in NSW, for a few days of rest and relaxation. This provided a great opportunity to stretch the legs of the naturally aspirated V8 engine, as it were.
The distinctive sound that emanates from the Lexus’ active exhaust system is just awesome. The 2023 LC 500 Convertible sports an unmistakable design that is a perfect fusion of aggressive sportiness and refined elegance.
From its sharply contoured lines to its low-slung stance, it exudes an aura of sophistication and athleticism. The bold spindle grille, accentuated by chrome accents and mesh patterns, dominates the front fascia and sets the tone for the entire vehicle.
Flared wheel arches, a sculpted rear end, and a retractable soft-top further enhance the car’s aesthetics. Whether the roof is up or down, the LC 500 Convertible grabs attention from every angle, making it a true head-turner on the road.
Lexus provides the car in ten very cool exterior colours, including Graphite Black, Deep Blue, Khaki Metal, Zinnia Yellow, Sonic Chrome, Sonic Iridium, Infrared, White Nova, Titanium and Carnelian (as tested).
It’s a surprisingly surreal looking colour that when combined with 21-inch forged alloy wheels, gives the Lexus an extraordinary look. Slip into the driver’s seat, and you’ll be greeted by a cabin that exemplifies luxury and attention to detail.
Premium materials, such as hand-stitched accented leather trim, and aluminium accents, adorn the interior surfaces, creating an environment that feels opulent. The seats provide excellent support and comfort no matter the purpose of your trip.
The driving position is superb, with all controls conveniently placed and within easy reach. A four-seater, the LC 500 Convertible has ample space up front, and almost none for rear occupants. It’s a parcel shelf situation back there.
An analogue clock offers a nod to its luxurious persona up front, while the front seats are heated and ventilated, with memory. There’s even heated headrests and a similarly warmed steering wheel. Dual zone climate control and a head-up display feature.
An 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster includes a sliding tachometer for added sportiness, and there’s an array of other tech too, although some of it is quite dated by today’s standards.
The centrepiece is a vibrant 10.3-inch high-resolution infotainment system. It’s not touchscreen, and is driven by a control unit in the console. It does support wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Its standout functionality though is to connect you to the 915-watt 13-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system that offers a truly immersive audio experience. There’s even a CD player.
Additionally, the LC 500 Convertible incorporates modern safety features, such as blind spot monitoring, crash avoidance, forward collision warning, hill hold, electronic brake force distribution, adaptive cruise control and a reversing camera.
Lane keep assist and parking assist round out a pretty reasonable suite of driver aids. Under the hood is a 351kW 5.0-litre V8, offering up 540Nm of torque. That’s mated to a uniquely designed 10-speed automatic transmission.
Able to sprint to 100km/h in just over 4.5 seconds, the LC 500’s engine emits a sonorous growl as it propels the car forward, providing an exhilarating soundtrack to accompany the swift acceleration.
Running solely on premium unleaded, with an 82-litre tank, it’s good for 12.7-litres/100km in terms of fuel economy. That means you should get about 645km out of a tank if you don’t leave it in angry Sport+ mode. Keep it there, and you’ll be drinking juice faster.
There are five other options though, including Eco, Comfort, Custom and Sport S. It’s worth noting that for 2023, Lexus has modified the car’s coil springs and recalibrated its AVS adaptive dampers, improving both the touring and sporting aspects of the car.
The well-tuned suspension system and a stiff chassis work in harmony to deliver precise handling and exceptional road grip. Whether you’re cruising along the coastline or attacking a twisty mountain road, the LC 500 Convertible responds eagerly to every input.
All-in-all there’s a lot to like about the 2023 Lexus LC 500 Convertible, including that engine, its limited slip diff, the fact it’s rear-wheel drive, and its 245/40 front and 275/35 rear tyres.
Tipping the scales at a little over 2000kg, it promises a lot of fun, while also blending luxury and performance. Like the LFA supercar it draws some of its inspiration from, this writer reckons it’s a future collectible.
If you want to own one, you’ll need to part with just under $228,000 drive away though. It comes with a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty, capped price servicing and Lexus’ ownership program. You can find out more on the Lexus Australia Website.
If you’re keen on one, and need finance, talk to CreditOne.
Our test vehicle was provided by Lexus Australia. To find out more about the 2023 Lexus LC 500 Convertible, contact your local Lexus dealer. Images courtesy of MHM.
