Lexus Lc
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a luxury grand tourer that makes every journey feel special? The Lexus LC might be exactly what you’re looking for. This stunning flagship coupe combines dramatic styling with exceptional build quality, delivering a taste of automotive artistry that few rivals can match. While Lexus has discontinued the LC in the UK, used examples remain available, offering buyers a chance to own one of the most visually striking cars ever produced.

From the moment you see it, the LC commands attention. Its bold spindle grille and flowing lines create a presence that turns heads wherever you go. The interior feels like a luxury lounge, with premium materials and meticulous attention to detail that puts many competitors to shame. This isn’t just transport, it’s automotive theatre. Whether you choose the naturally aspirated V8 LC500 or the hybrid LC500h, you get a car that prioritises refinement and comfort over outright pace.

Driving the LC is a serene experience. The engines are smooth and cultured, making long distance cruising effortless and enjoyable. It handles with surprising grace for such a large car, giving you confidence on winding roads while remaining comfortable for everyday use. The LC aims to be the ultimate expression of Japanese luxury craftsmanship. While it commands a premium price, you’re investing in a piece of automotive art that delivers an unmatched ownership experience every single day.

How Does the Lexus LC Drive?

The Lexus LC is designed to be a refined grand tourer rather than an outright sports car. The LC500 features a naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 that produces 471 horsepower, delivering smooth and linear power delivery. It reaches 60mph in around 4.4 seconds, which feels effortless rather than aggressive. The LC500h hybrid combines a 3.5-litre V6 with electric motors for 354 horsepower, prioritising efficiency over raw performance. Both engines are paired with sophisticated transmissions that prioritise smoothness over sharp responses.

Where the LC truly excels is in its driving refinement. The steering is light and precise, making this large coupe surprisingly manageable in tight spaces. The suspension strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control, soaking up road imperfections while maintaining composure through corners. The cabin remains whisper quiet at motorway speeds, thanks to extensive sound insulation. This creates a serene driving environment that makes every journey feel special, whether you’re commuting or touring across continents.

Inside the Lexus LC: Comfort & Features

Step inside the LC and you’re greeted by one of the most beautiful interiors in any car. The dashboard flows in sculptural curves, with premium materials throughout including soft leather, real wood, and brushed metal accents. The seats are exceptionally comfortable, offering excellent support for long journeys with multiple adjustment options. Every control feels solid and well damped, reinforcing the sense of quality and craftsmanship. The 10.3-inch infotainment screen dominates the centre console, though the interface can be challenging to use while driving.

Space is generous for a two door coupe, with adequate headroom and legroom for most adults. The rear seats are best suited to children or occasional use by smaller adults. Climate control is excellent, with precise temperature control and effective ventilation. Road noise is virtually absent, creating a calm sanctuary that makes the LC perfect for relaxed cruising. Standard equipment includes premium audio, smartphone integration, and comprehensive safety systems. The overall ambience is one of understated luxury and meticulous attention to detail.

The Lexus LC stands as one of the most visually stunning cars ever created, successfully translating concept car drama into production reality. Its interior sets new standards for luxury and craftsmanship, making every journey feel like an occasion. The driving experience prioritises refinement and comfort over outright sportiness, creating a uniquely serene grand touring character. Build quality is exceptional, and the attention to detail is evident throughout. The trade offs are a high purchase price, limited practicality, and running costs that reflect its luxury positioning. It’s not the sharpest handling coupe available, but that’s not its purpose. Its purpose is to be a rolling work of art that delivers an unmatched sense of occasion every time you drive it. If you appreciate automotive beauty and Japanese craftsmanship at its finest, the LC is an easy car to recommend. With production now ended, it represents a rare opportunity to own something truly special.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Lexus LC?

As a luxury grand tourer, the LC comes with premium running costs that reflect its flagship status. Fuel economy varies significantly between models, with the V8 LC500 returning around 25mpg in real world driving, while the hybrid LC500h achieves closer to 35mpg. Insurance premiums will be substantial due to the high purchase price and powerful engines. Servicing costs are reasonable for a luxury car, with Lexus offering competitive service packages and extended warranties for peace of mind.

The main consideration is depreciation, as luxury coupes can lose value quickly in their early years. However, with production now ended, well maintained examples may begin to hold their value better. When considering car finance options, expect monthly payments to reflect the premium positioning. Parts and repairs can be expensive, though Lexus has an excellent reputation for reliability. For those who can afford the running costs, the LC delivers an ownership experience that few cars can match.

Is the Lexus LC Practical for Everyday Use?

For a luxury coupe, the LC offers reasonable practicality considering its dramatic styling priorities. The 172-litre boot is small by conventional standards but adequate for weekend bags or a weekly shop. The opening is quite narrow due to the sleek roofline, making loading bulky items challenging. Storage inside the cabin is limited, with small door pockets and a modest centre console. The cup holders and phone storage areas are well thought out for daily essentials.

Where the LC shows its limits is in rear passenger accommodation. While adults can fit in the back seats for short journeys, legroom is tight and headroom restricted by the sloping roofline. It’s really a 2+2 rather than a genuine four seater. For couples or small families who prioritise style and luxury over outright practicality, the LC strikes an acceptable balance. Its compact dimensions make it easier to park than you might expect, and the excellent visibility aids daily usability. This is a car for those who want something special compared to typical used Lexus cars.

The Lexus LC represents the pinnacle of Japanese luxury and design, wrapping stunning looks around exceptional refinement and build quality. It successfully combines dramatic styling with genuine usability, creating a grand tourer that makes every journey feel special. The interior is arguably the best in its class, with materials and craftsmanship that justify the premium price tag. While not the most practical choice, it delivers an ownership experience that few cars can match.

You choose the LC because you want something truly distinctive that stands out from the crowd. With production now discontinued, it offers exclusivity that will only increase over time. It’s perfectly suited for those who appreciate automotive artistry and want a car that delivers luxury and refinement in equal measure. If you’re looking for a grand tourer that prioritises beauty and comfort over pure performance, the LC should be at the top of your list, especially when considering used luxury cars under £50,000.