The first of the Lexus LF (Lexus Future) line of cars debuted in 2003 as the LF-X, or Lexus Future Crossover. It would give the public and press a glimpse of things to come from the Lexus division and be followed by other concepts that would turn into production cars, or very close. Using the L-Finesse design language developed by Lexus, vehicles such as the LF-CH, LF-A, LF-C and LF-FC might be most familiar with enthusiasts, with the LF-A taking the company into the realm of the absolute supercar. Extremely limited and very expensive, the LC500 differed from the LF-A, largely creating an opportunity for consumer to purchase a more affordable, similarly styled car while maintaining an exclusive demeanor. The LC500 was developed between 2011 and 2016, and it was designed in Newport Beach, California, at Calty Design Research with work transferred to Toyota Technical in Aichi, Japan, later on. Delays and revisions ensued, and the first LC500 debuted in 2017 for 2018. Described as fluidly styled, the new LC sustained the overall design language of the company while providing the level of luxury expected of the brand. In terms of performance, the LC was on par with some of the more well-known grand touring cars, showing 0-60 MPH times in the sub-5-second range and top speeds approaching 170 MPH. While those numbers are impressive, Lexus never made a fuss about it, preferring instead to tout its materials, build quality, comfort, refinement, design and styling over all else. This 2018 LC500 is finished in red with a carbon fiber roof panel. Powered by the 5.0L V-8 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission, the luxurious coupe coddles passengers in a custom environment of white and black leather upholstery with all the technology and amenities for which Lexus has become known, such as an AM/FM stereo system, navigation, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, power seats with memory, air conditioning and much more. Rolling on Bridgestone Potenza tires with polished wheels, the LC500 provides a stunning and rare alternative to the usual suspects.
