2026 Lexus LC Expert Review
Reviewed by Bob Hernandez
The 2026 Lexus LC is the brand’s flagship grand tourer, created to fuse concept-car styling with everyday livability. With its mix of Japanese craftsmanship, high-revving V-8 performance, and eye-catching style, it serves as both a design statement and a performance showcase.
Luxury coupe rivals include the BMW 8 Series, Chevrolet Corvette, and Mercedes-Benz SL-Class.
What’s New
Standard Intuitive Parking Assist is new for the LC500 Coupe this year, and the 2026 Convertible is available with the Bespoke Build package. This features a mix of performance and styling components including wheels, a spoiler, roof, and exterior/interior trims and colors not possible with the standard configuration. The Bespoke Build is further distinguished by a model-specific interior badge and includes a certificate of authenticity.
New limited-run Inspiration Series models also arrive this year for both the LC500 Coupe and Convertible. They come with:
- Forged 21-inch alloy wheels
- Front bumper canards
- Blacked-out exterior accents including the grille, headlights, taillights, rocker garnishes, and outside mirrors
- Mark Levinson 13-speaker sound system
- Heated steering wheel
- Head-up display
- Model-specific door scuff plates
- Center console badge
Limited to 200 units for North America, the Coupe also includes:
- Active Rear Steering
- Carbon-fiber roof
- Smoke Matte Gray exterior paint
- Carbon-fiber rear fixed spoiler
- Red brake calipers
- Sport seats
- White and black interior treatment throughout the cabin
With 350 units slated for our market, the Convertible also features:
- Rear limited-slip differential
- Rear performance rod
- New Wind exterior paint with a brown and silver convertible top
- Saddle Tan and White semi-aniline leather seats
- Climate Concierge with upper body heating
Finally, due to low sales, the LC500h hybrid has been discontinued.
What We Think
The Lexus LC continues to dazzle with its show-stopping design, intoxicating V-8 soundtrack, and impeccable craftsmanship. Even after the better part of a decade, the LC’s design remains one of the most beautiful on the road. The interior is equally artful, with fine details and rich materials, now joined by available Inspiration Series and Bespoke Build touches that make each example feel even more special.
Performance centers solely on the LC500’s naturally aspirated V-8, which delivers effortless thrust and an unforgettable sound. We still wish for a tighter, sportier transmission, but smooth shifts and grand touring refinement remain part of its charm.
This isn’t a razor-sharp sports car, but rather a refined grand tourer with real character. Low-volume though it may be, the LC feels destined for future classic status—a car that delights today and will be treasured tomorrow.
Top-Ranked Competitors:
MotorTrend Tested
With the hybrid now discontinued, the LC500 stands alone in the lineup. Its 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V-8 delivers 471 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic to the rear wheels. In MotorTrend testing, it sprinted to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds.
The BMW Z4 M40i comes with a smaller inline-six engine that makes only 382 hp and 368 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate to 60 mph in a quicker 3.9 seconds.
MPGs and Range
Fuel economy is rated at 16/24 mpg city/highway for the coupe and 15/25 mpg for the convertible. Both have a total range of up to 391 miles.
Equipped with its automatic transmission, the M40i returns a better 23/29 mpg. Range isn’t as good, though, at just 342 miles because of the BMW’s significantly smaller gas tank.
Safety Features
Every LC features the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 suite of driver assist and active safety features. Standard equipment includes:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keep assist
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Front automatic emergency braking
- Emergency evasive steering
- Intersection collision mitigation
- Automatic high-beams
- Road sign recognition
Cargo Space and Interior Room
The Lexus LC may be a four-seater on paper, but its tiny rear seats are best for short hops, emergency use, or extra cargo space. Trunk room trails some rivals, though unlike the BMW Z4, the LC at least offers a back seat, however impractical.
Technology
Infotainment
A 12.3-inch touchscreen is standard, as is wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Two USB ports are also included.
Sound System
The base sound system features 12 speakers, and the Mark Levinson upgrade boasts 13 speakers. Rear seat-mounted speakers come with the Convertible.
Available Upgrades
An available head-up display keeps important stats within the driver’s sightline. The Dynamic Handling package includes a limited-slip differential, as well as performance brake pads, active rear steering, and a speed-activated rear wing for hardtop models.
Value
Standard Features
The LC500 delivers solid value with a blend of sharp, head-turning styling, a powerful and thrilling V-8, and a host of standard features—from adaptive suspension and power front seats to a large touchscreen and advanced safety tech. It’s a grand tourer that feels luxurious, engaging, and well equipped right out of the gate.
Recommended Trim
The LC500 Coupe, especially when equipped with the available Dynamic Handling package, offers a compelling mix of performance, luxury, and value.
