Lexus LC 500 Convertible
Has Lexus just created the world’s most beautiful convertible?
Following the unveiling of the fourth-generation IS sedan, Lexus has now officially announced that the stunning LC 500 Convertible will reach South African shores sometime in 2021.
The LC 500 Convertible bowed at last year’s Los Angeles Auto Show, and as expected, is based on the award-winning and equally glorious LC 500 Coupe. Whilst it retains much of the distinctive styling seen on the LC Coupe, it now gains a four-layer soft-top roof that is operable at up to speeds of 50kph. The soft top will be offered in two colours, beige and black, also takes just 15 seconds to open, and an additional second to close.
The design of the roof was key to Lexus’ goal of creating what they believed to be the ‘most beautiful’ convertible currently available, as chief designer Tadao Mori explained: “Few convertibles are stylish and elegant when the roof is open and when it is closed. We put maximum effort into realizing the same beautiful roofline for the LC Convertible as for the coupe.”
The stylish cabin is in typical Lexus fashion, “crafted”, and features a mix of leather and Alcantara upholstery. Other highlights include alloy pedals, an ambient lighting system, and a 10.3-inch infotainment system with Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Apple CarPlay compatibility. As the cabin is more open to view, Lexus used innovative colour co-ordination, enhancing the model’s special character and brave design. The seat upholstery also received special attention with a quilting pattern in the shoulder section of the front seats and perforations with three different diameters appearing to progressively fade away.
The rear-wheel-drive LC 500 Convertible shares its drivetrain with the LC 500 Coupe, meaning it will draw propulsion from a naturally-aspirated 5.0-litre V8 that produces 351kw and 540nm, whilst being paired with a DirectShift-10 automatic transmission. Lexus didn’t disclose any performance figures but expect 0-100kph in around 4.6 seconds, which is slightly slower than the lighter LC 500 Coupe. It should also be noted that while Lexus retuned the chassis and reworked the suspension, they added a rear-mounted die-cast aluminium strut brace and a performance dampener to improve ride comfort.
The LC 500 convertible will come standard with the Lexus Safety System+ which includes a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Lane Keep Assist, and All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. There’s also Intelligent High Beam Headlights and a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
Expect pricing and final specifications to be revealed closer to its launch date sometime in 2021.
Also worth a look: the 2026 Lexus RZ Launched in South Africa | Price & Specs and the Lexus RZ Becomes a Moving Canvas in Collaboration with Artis.
FAQ
Q: What does the Lexus LC 500 Convertible cost in South Africa?
The Lexus LC 500 Convertible is priced from around R2,150,000 in South Africa, making it a premium luxury convertible that competes with the likes of the BMW 8 Series Convertible and Mercedes-Benz SL-Class.
Q: How fast can you open and close the roof on the LC 500 Convertible?
The four-layer soft-top roof opens in just 15 seconds and closes in 16 seconds, and it can be operated at speeds of up to 50kph, so you don't have to pull over to enjoy some open-air motoring.
Q: What engine does the Lexus LC 500 Convertible have?
The LC 500 Convertible packs a naturally-aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine that produces 351kW and 540Nm of torque, delivering that proper V8 soundtrack you want in a luxury convertible.
Q: Is the Lexus LC 500 Convertible worth buying?
If you've got over R2 million to spend and want one of the most stunning convertibles money can buy, absolutely, but be prepared for steep running costs and limited practicality compared to other luxury cars in this price range.
Q: How does the LC 500 Convertible compare to the BMW 8 Series Convertible?
The LC 500 Convertible is more of an emotional purchase with its stunning looks and V8 drama, while the BMW 8 Series offers more advanced tech and slightly better practicality, but the Lexus wins hands down in the looks department.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, if you're after the most jaw-droppingly beautiful convertible under R2.5 million in South Africa, the Lexus LC 500 Convertible is your answer. This isn't just a car, it's automotive art with a 351kW V8 soundtrack, and while the R2,150,000 price tag puts it firmly in millionaire territory, you're getting exclusivity, reliability, and drop-dead gorgeous looks that'll turn heads from Cape Town to Joburg. Just remember, this is a weekend toy rather than a daily driver, so make sure you've got something more practical in the garage for the school run.
