When we last met the Lexus LC convertible, it was earlier this year at the North American International Auto Show. While the cold weather, and Lexus’s vague statements on whether it was indeed production bound or not kept us guessing, there was no secret that even in concept form, Lexus had a very stylish entry on its hands. Fast forward to the 2019 L.A. Auto Show, and the company has unveiled the production version of the LC 500 convertible which has thankfully retained a lot of its show car charm in the transition from concept to production bound vehicle.
The exterior styling of the LC 500 convertible looks very similar to its coupe counterpart, with a key exception being the revisions that were made to the rear deck that were needed for it to accommodate the convertible top. Lexus also revealed that engineers went through a great deal of effort to fit the platform with the extra bracing necessary to help reduce chassis flex, as well as tweaks to the front suspension to help reduce unsprung weight. Buyers will have a diverse menu of colors to choose from including Ultra White, Smoky Granite, Liquid Platinum, Atomic Silver, Obsidian, Caviar, Infrared, Cadmium Orange, Flare Yellow, and Nightfall Mica. The LC 500 convertible’s attention grabber is a four layer fabric top, with Lexus discreetly hiding the framing for it underneath the material so you shouldn’t be able to see it when the top is fully raised. Drivers can open the top in 15 seconds, or 16 seconds when it comes time to close it. The assembly can be operated at speeds up to 31 mph, and Lexus engineers even tweaked the HVAC system to adjust the temperature when the top is down while neck heaters help keep occupants even warmer on chillier days.
Performance for the convertible will be very familiar to those that have had experience with the coupe. A big naturally aspirated V8 sends 471 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels via a ten-speed automatic transmission. To help hear the engine better, a special pipe runs helps channel the sound directly into the cabin, with the company quickly pointing out that the soundtrack is indeed real with no electronic trickery to be found. When the LC 500 convertible begins production, it will launch with a limited run of Inspiration Series models, with Lexus only building a scant 100 units. These examples feature a Structural Blue paint scheme with a blue roof and gray trim all around the body. The interior meanwhile wears an all white semi-aniline leather interior.
While Lexus did not reveal when the LC 500 will begin production, the company did reveal that it will auction the first LC 500 convertible at the Barrett Jackson Auction in Scottsdale, Arizona in January, with all proceeds going towards charity. Look for official production to formally kick off shortly after this, with final pricing and other information to be released closer to its official launch.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.