Lexus LC 500 & LC 500h (2017–2025) Review: Buyer’s Guide & Insights

If you’re hunting for a car that’s equal parts heart-pounding thrill and jaw-dropping luxury, the Lexus LC 500 and LC 500h are calling your name. Since their debut in 2017, these grand tourers from Toyota’s luxury brand have turned heads with their futuristic design, powerful engines, and plush interiors. Whether you’re eyeing the V8-powered LC 500 for its raw roar or the eco-friendly LC 500h hybrid for its efficiency, this car promises to make every drive unforgettable.

This buyer’s guide is your one-stop shop for everything you need to know about the Lexus LC (2017–present) before signing the dotted line. We’ll dive deep into performance, design, technology, pricing, ownership costs, pros and cons, and even tips for getting the best deal in 2025. Written for car shoppers who want all the details—explained simply enough for an 8th grader—this guide will help you decide if the LC is your perfect match. Let’s hit the road!

Why Consider the Lexus LC?

The Lexus LC isn’t just another sports car—it’s a masterpiece that blends supercar style with luxury comfort. Born from the stunning LF-LC concept in 2012, it launched in 2017 as a flagship grand tourer. Available as the LC 500 (gas-powered, 471-hp V8) or LC 500h (hybrid, 354-hp V6 plus electric motors), it offers two ways to experience driving bliss. You can also choose between a sleek coupe or a glamorous convertible (added in 2020).

What sets the LC apart in the Japanese car world? It’s not a track monster like the Nissan GT-R or a budget-friendly thrill like the Mazda MX-5 Miata. Instead, it competes with European giants like the Porsche 911, BMW 8 Series, or Mercedes-Benz SL, offering a unique mix of Japanese craftsmanship, reliability, and head-turning design. If you want a car that feels special every time you slide behind the wheel, the LC delivers.

Design: A Rolling Work of Art

Exterior: Stop Traffic with Style

The LC’s design is a showstopper. Its low, wide stance and flowing lines make it look like a concept car brought to life. The massive spindle grille (Lexus’s signature) gives it a bold, almost aggressive face, while sleek LED headlights and a sculpted hood add drama. The rear is just as striking, with slim taillights, chrome exhausts, and a subtle spoiler that screams performance.

In 2024, Lexus introduced the Bespoke Build package, letting you customize exterior colors (like Ultrasonic Blue or Nori Green Pearl), wheels, and roof options. The convertible model, with its soft-top roof, is perfect for cruising under the stars—think California coast vibes. Compared to the boxier BMW 8 Series or the understated Porsche 911, the LC’s design is pure art, guaranteed to make strangers snap photos.

Interior: Luxury Meets Comfort

Step inside, and the LC feels like a private jet. Premium leather, Alcantara suede, and metallic accents create a cozy yet upscale vibe. The front seats are supportive for spirited drives but cushy enough for long trips. Every detail, from hand-stitched upholstery to the tactile climate controls, shows off Japanese attention to quality.

However, there are trade-offs. The rear seats are tiny—better for bags than people. The trunk is small, too: 5.4 cubic feet in the coupe and just 4.7 cubic feet in the convertible. If you’re packing for a road trip, travel light or use a roof rack. Still, the cabin’s beauty and comfort make it a joy to spend time in, whether you’re commuting or cruising.

Buyer Tip: Test the trunk and rear seats at the dealership to ensure they meet your needs. If cargo space is a priority, consider a sedan like the Lexus LS.

Performance: Power and Poise for Every Driver

LC 500: V8 Thrills

The LC 500 is powered by a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8, churning out 471 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a slick 10-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive, it rockets from 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds and tops out at 168 mph. The V8’s deep, growly exhaust note is pure magic—way more soulful than the turbo engines in rivals like the BMW M850i.

Lexus sharpened the suspension in 2021 for better cornering, and the 2025 model keeps those upgrades. Optional features like a Torsen limited-slip differential and adaptive dampers make it feel glued to the road. It’s not as razor-sharp as a Porsche 911 on a racetrack, but for real-world roads, it’s a blast. Fuel economy is a downside: 16 mpg city/24 mpg highway. You’ll be a regular at the gas station.

LC 500h: Hybrid Smarts

The LC 500h swaps the V8 for a 3.5-liter V6 plus two electric motors, delivering 354 horsepower. Its multi-stage hybrid system (a CVT with a four-speed automatic) feels smooth, hitting 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds. It’s less about raw speed and more about efficiency: 26 mpg city/34 mpg highway, a big win for long drives or high gas prices in 2025. The hybrid is quieter, lacking the V8’s roar, but it still handles like a sports car.

Which to Choose?

• LC 500: Pick this for thrilling power, loud exhaust, and classic sports car vibes.

• LC 500h: Choose this for better fuel economy and a smoother, greener ride.

Buyer Tip: Test-drive both models to feel the difference. If you live in a city with heavy traffic, the LC 500h’s efficiency might save you money.

Technology: High-Tech with a Few Quirks

The LC’s tech is impressive but has some quirks. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen (upgraded in 2021) supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a crystal-clear Mark Levinson audio system (13 speakers, 915 watts). It’s a music lover’s dream. But the touchpad controller is frustrating—like using a fidgety laptop trackpad while driving. Rivals like the BMW 8 Series have easier-to-use touchscreens or dials.

Safety tech is robust, with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 including:

• Adaptive cruise control (great for highway drives).

• Lane-keeping assist (nudges you back if you drift).

• Automatic emergency braking (helps avoid collisions).

The 2025 model adds a digital key, letting you lock or start the car with your smartphone. The optional heads-up display projects speed and navigation onto the windshield, keeping your eyes on the road. The digital gauge cluster, inspired by the Lexus LFA supercar, moves physically for a cool, retro-futuristic effect.

Downsides: Rear visibility is poor due to the sleek roofline, so you’ll lean on the backup camera and parking sensors. The infotainment lag can annoy tech-savvy buyers.

Buyer Tip: Practice using the touchpad during your test drive. If it feels too clunky, budget for a phone mount to use your smartphone’s navigation instead.

Driving Experience: Built for Joyful Journeys

The LC is a grand tourer, meaning it’s designed for long, spirited drives rather than hardcore track days. On winding roads, it feels nimble despite its 4,300-pound weight, with precise steering and a suspension that balances comfort and control. The 10-speed automatic shifts smoothly in normal mode and snaps off quick changes in Sport+ mode. Sorry, manual fans—no stick shift here.

The convertible adds open-air excitement, but its extra weight (about 4,500 pounds) slightly slows acceleration. Compared to a Porsche 911, the LC is less track-focused but comfier for daily driving. It’s smoother than a Nissan GT-R and more luxurious than a Toyota GR Supra, making it ideal for road trips or weekend getaways.

Buyer Tip: Take the LC on a mix of highways and curvy roads during your test drive to feel its grand tourer magic. Bring a passenger to test seat comfort.

Pricing and Ownership Costs: What to Expect

The 2025 Lexus LC is a premium purchase, but it’s competitive for its class:

• LC 500 Coupe: ~$102,000.

• LC 500h Coupe: ~$104,000 (hybrid tech adds cost).

• LC 500 Convertible: ~$108,000.

• Fully Loaded (Bespoke Build, premium options): Up to $120,000.

Ownership Costs

• Fuel: LC 500 (~$2,500/year at 15,000 miles, $3.50/gallon); LC 500h (~$1,600/year).

• Insurance: ~$2,000-$3,000/year (varies by driver and location).

• Maintenance: ~$1,000-$1,500/year (tires, brakes, premium fuel add up).

• Depreciation: Strong resale value compared to European rivals, thanks to Lexus reliability.

Compared to rivals:

• Porsche 911 Carrera ($100,000-$120,000): Similar price, higher maintenance.

• BMW 8 Series ($90,000-$110,000): Slightly cheaper, less distinctive.

• Mercedes-Benz SL ($140,000+): Pricier, more upscale.

Lexus’s legendary reliability means fewer repair bills than a BMW or Mercedes. The 5-year/60,000-mile warranty and 6-year/unlimited-mile corrosion warranty add peace of mind.

Buyer Tip: Shop around for deals—Lexus often offers financing specials (e.g., 2.9% APR) or lease options. Check certified pre-owned LCs (2018-2020) for savings, starting at ~$70,000.

Pros and Cons: The Full Picture

Pros

• Gorgeous Design: Turns heads everywhere, coupe or convertible.

• Thrilling Performance: V8 power (LC 500) or efficient hybrid (LC 500h).

• Luxurious Interior: Plush, high-quality cabin for long drives.

• Reliability: Lexus’s bulletproof build saves on repairs.

• Customization: Bespoke Build lets you make it your own.

• Resale Value: Holds value better than many luxury rivals.

Cons

• Clunky Infotainment: Touchpad frustrates tech fans.

• Limited Cargo Space: Small trunk and tiny rear seats.

• Not Track-Focused: Less sharp than a Porsche 911.

• Pricey Options: Fully loaded models hit $120,000.

• Poor Rear Visibility: Rely on cameras for parking.

Who Should Buy the Lexus LC?

The LC is ideal for:

• Enthusiasts craving a stylish, powerful car for weekend adventures.

• Luxury Buyers wanting a unique alternative to BMW or Mercedes.

• Eco-Conscious Drivers (LC 500h) who still love performance.

• Empty Nesters seeking a fun, impractical dream car.

It’s not for:

• Families: Tiny rear seats and trunk limit practicality.

• Track Junkies: Better options like the Porsche Cayman exist.

• Budget Shoppers: Consider a Toyota GR Supra for half the price.

Buyer Tip: If you need more space, test-drive the Lexus LS sedan. For track days, look at the RC F or a used LFA (if you’re lucky!).

Tips for Buying Your Lexus LC

1. Test-Drive Both Models: Feel the V8’s roar vs. the hybrid’s smoothness.

2. Check Options: Decide if extras like the Mark Levinson audio or heads-up display are worth it.

3. Negotiate: Dealerships may offer discounts or throw in free maintenance.

4. Consider Certified Pre-Owned: Save $20,000-$30,000 on a 2018-2020 LC with a warranty.

5. Plan for Costs: Budget for premium fuel, insurance, and tires.

6. Join Enthusiast Groups: Check X or forums like ClubLexus for owner tips and deals.

The Future of the LC in 2025

As of 2025, the LC remains a Lexus flagship, with no redesign announced. Minor updates (new colors, tech tweaks) keep it fresh. Lexus’s push for electrification—seen in the 2021 Electrified Sport Concept—hints at a possible electric LC by 2030. For now, the LC 500 and LC 500h are modern classics, blending old-school V8 charm with hybrid smarts.

Final Verdict: Your Ticket to Driving Bliss

The Lexus LC 500 and LC 500h (2017–present) are dream cars that live up to the hype. With stunning looks, thrilling performance, and a cabin that pampers, they’re perfect for drivers who want to stand out. The LC 500’s V8 delivers raw excitement, while the LC 500h offers efficiency without boredom. Yes, the infotainment is clunky, and cargo space is tight, but those are small flaws in a car this special.

Ready to make the leap? Visit a Lexus dealer, test-drive both models, and ask about financing deals. The LC isn’t just a car—it’s a lifestyle. Get behind the wheel, and every drive will feel like a movie scene.