A Decade Later, the V8 Lexus LC500 Continues to Make the Future Seem Overrated | Review | Carscoops

      We spent a week with the naturally aspirated V8 coupe and observed how aging can indeed be a form of luxury.

      by Brad Anderson

      PROS ›› Gorgeous design, excellent engine, premium interior CONS ›› Annoying cameras, pricey, could use a louder sound

      According to most standards in the automotive industry, the Lexus LC500 is virtually a classic at this point. By January, it will have been a full ten years since it first made an impression at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show, a milestone that feels almost surreal in today's rapid automotive landscape.

      While it's not completely unusual for cars to still be around a decade after their debut, with the Nissan GT-R lasting even longer, the LC500 is notable because it hasn't undergone a significant redesign to rejuvenate its image during that time.

      Remarkably, it continues to resonate with buyers. The LC500 remains one of the most stunning vehicles available, and after experiencing the latest model, it feels increasingly relevant.

      Essentially, the LC500 is a vehicle that has withstood the test of time, and it's all the better for it. In an era where new electric vehicles are frequently emerging and naturally aspirated V8s are becoming rare, it distinguishes itself from other grand tourers on the market.

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      Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops

      What Maintains Its Timelessness?

      It has been six and a half years since I first became enamored with the LC500 after spending a week with a Zinnia Yellow model. So, when Lexus Australia offered me the chance to drive the 2025 version, I eagerly jumped at the opportunity to see how the two-door has aged and how it compares to its rivals.

      For the most part, the formula for the LC has remained impressively consistent since its debut. It is still powered by the 2UR-GSE 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 (unless you choose the less exciting LC500h hybrid) and continues to produce 471 hp (351 kW) at 7,100 rpm and 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque at 4,800 rpm. The familiar 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive are also present.

      In Australia, the starting price for the 2025 LC500 is A$227,164 ($147,400), although the model we tested featured Enhancement Pack 1, which added dynamic rear steering, variable gear ratio steering, and an active spoiler. It also included a carbon fiber roof, 10-way power-adjustable front seats, carbon fiber scuff plates, and additional leather and Alcantara throughout the interior.

      Total cost: AU$243,514 ($158,000). While expensive, it certainly feels like an experience it should be. U.S. customers can expect a starting price of $101,700.

      Lexus has sensibly kept the exterior design of the LC500 mostly unchanged since its launch but has implemented some minor interior updates over the years.

      Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops

      Interior Enhancements

      The most significant of these changes occurred in 2024 when Lexus discarded the confusing center console trackpad from earlier models and introduced a new infotainment system boasting a 12.3-inch display.

      This was arguably the only necessary update to the cabin to keep it feeling current, and it's a welcome change. Unfortunately, the larger screen resulted in the removal of the elegant analog dash clock.

      Similar to current Toyota vehicles, the infotainment software of the latest LC500 remains quite basic, but the touchscreen responds promptly to inputs. It comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay, although sadly, Android Auto remains a wired connection.

      The familiar digital instrument cluster is still present, including the LFA-inspired central gauge that can slide sideways with the press of a button.

      The interior's fit and finish are absolutely exceptional. Despite its age, it still boasts the highest-quality cabin of any current Lexus model. The steering wheel features metal paddle shifters, while plush leather adorns the dashboard, door panels, and center console. It also has dedicated climate control buttons, which are becoming increasingly rare today.

      Read: Lexus Future Lineup Includes Supercar Speeds And An SUV That Could Replace Gas Giant

      The seats are superb, offering just the right amount of thigh and side support to keep you secure during spirited driving while remaining comfortable on long journeys.

      The 13-speaker Mark Levinson audio system has also seen improvements that enhance its sound quality, although I cannot vouch for it much since I preferred to enjoy the music of the V8 over the audio system.

      One aspect I found bothersome was the parking cameras. Each time I stopped at an intersection or red light, the infotainment screen would switch to the camera view, and I couldn't locate a setting to turn this off.

      There are two rear seats, but they are so small that they are practically useless for transporting passengers over any significant distance.

      Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops