[Auto] 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible First Look

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Lexus has expanded its LC 500 model line with the 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible. As Lexus’halo model, the LC 500 coupe already serves as the brand's style, luxury and technology showcase. For the 2021 model year the LC 500 Convertible will add an open-air option with new features specifically designed to enhance top-down driving.

Arriving in showrooms in the summer of 2020, the new LC 500 Convertible will retain the coupe's 5.0-liter V8 engine, offering 471 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. Power travels to the rear wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission, while driving dynamics are enhanced with retuned suspension settings and convertible-specific chassis bracing to ensure uncompromised structural rigidity.

Top tucks away in 15 Seconds

The Lexus LC 500 Convertible features a 4-layer soft top that retracts in 15 seconds and deploys in 16 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph. A hard tonneau cover is part of the folding mechanism, providing an uncluttered look when the LC 500's top is stowed. Subtle exterior changes for the convertible include a "kicked up" trunk line and wider rear spoiler with integrated third brake light.

The soft top is offered in two colors, black or beige, while the LC 500 Convertible's exterior colors include Ultra White, Smoky Granite, Liquid Platinum, Atomic Silver, Obsidian, Caviar, Infrared, Cadmium Orange, Flare Yellow and Nightfall Mica. Interior color choices range from Black to Circuit Red to Toasted Caramel. There’s also a special launch edition of the 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible, dubbed the “Inspiration Series” and limited to 100 units. This model features Structural Blue exterior paint, a blue soft top, and a white semi-aniline interior, plus chrome / black 21-inch wheels.

Convertible-Friendly Features

Lexus is touting the LC 500 Convertible's all-weather, top-down functionality through the use of climate control technology like neck heaters, seat heaters and cabin ventilation that can focus on the passengers’ upper body to counteract cold temperatures when the top is down. There are even dedicated vents to blow cold or warm air on the back of the driver’s hands.

Reduced cabin noise and air buffeting was another engineering goal, with the LC 500 offering a transparent wind deflector and a deployable wind screen. Active Noise Control technology, leveraging sound insulation and specific absorption materials, are designed to quell wind and road noise. Conversely, the 5.0-liter V8's engine note is emphasized when the top is stowed through a sound tube and tuned exhaust system delivering the engine's rumble to the cabin (without the use of electronic amplification).

Top-down technology

The LC 500 Convertible's 10.3-inch display screen will feature Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It can connect with Amazon’s Alexa, allowing drivers to control smart home devices, listen to audiobooks, stream music, make lists and check weather. Drivers can also leverage Lexus Enform Remote and Destination services, including remote door locking / unlocking, remote engine starting and a personal concierge offering directions and destination planning.

Lexus Safety System + (LSS +) technology comes standard on the LC 500 Convertible. This package includes pre-collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist with lane departure warning, smart cruise control and automatic high beams. The convertible also comes with active roll bars that deploy if a rollover is detected.

What will the 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible cost?

Pricing for the 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible will start at around $ 100,000 when it goes on sale in the summer of 2020.