The Lexus LC 500 convertible manages to take everything we love about the standard LC coupe and offer open-sky motoring without much sacrifice. It's not the quickest or most powerful car in its class, but a silky-smooth V8 and competent handling make it one of the most entertaining. It's a beauty, too, both inside and out, with some lovely details and flair. Cargo space is extremely limited, and we're still frustrated by some of the controls and menus, but the LC convertible is so charming in other areas that it's easy to overlook its flaws.Read full review
At Carvana, we go miles beyond the extra mile. That's why we provide you with a convenient, fast, and hassle-free car buying experience that puts you ...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
18 Combined MPG (15 City/25 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTHKPAAY3MA104320 Stock: 2003016537 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 07-01-2024
At Carvana, we go miles beyond the extra mile. That's why we provide you with a convenient, fast, and hassle-free car buying experience that puts you ...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
18 Combined MPG (15 City/25 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTHKPAAYXMA101298 Stock: 2002985888 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 06-25-2024
At Carvana, we go miles beyond the extra mile. That's why we provide you with a convenient, fast, and hassle-free car buying experience that puts you ...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
18 Combined MPG (15 City/25 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTHKPAAY2MA102011 Stock: 2003093556 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 08-26-2024
Ferrari Philadelphia is pleased to offer this 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible with only 21,026 miles. This vehicle is being sold with the balance of the...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
18 Combined MPG (15 City/25 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTHKPAAY3MA102986 Stock: 102986 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 08-31-2024
Reese Counts has worked in the automotive industry since he started as an intern at Edmunds in 2015. He has written or edited thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Reese is a vehicle test editor at Edmunds and has also contributed to Autoblog. Reese has also been featured on Yahoo! Finance, Engadget and AOL reviewing cars and covering automotive technology, auto shows and more. Reese learned to drive in his father's C4 Chevrolet Corvette and now owns his grandfather's 1999 Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG. A love for cars runs deep in his family.
Pros
Cabin design and interior materials are extraordinary
Effective at being both sporty and comfortable
Generous list of standard features
Convertible top doesn't dampen the LC's quiet refinement
Cons
Touchpad controller is frustrating to use
The trunk won't hold much cargo, and interior storage space is limited
Not as customizable as other high-end sport coupes
What's new
Soft-top convertible model is new for 2021
Part of the first LC 500 generation introduced for 2018
Overview
The Lexus LC 500 debuted in 2018 as the Japanese automaker's latest flagship model. It features a striking design that's matched by a comfortable but sporty ride and one of the best sounding V8s on sale today. The LC oozes so much charm and personality that you'll probably be able to overlook the slightly tight interior and the frustrating infotainment system. .
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 10A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.98 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
For 2021, Lexus complements the coupe with the new LC 500 convertible. While it's not available with the LC 500h coupe's hybrid powertrain, we won't complain because the V8-powered model has always been the one to own. From behind the wheel, the LC 500 convertible feels just as smooth and refined as the coupe, with just a bit more road noise emanating through the convertible soft top. On rougher roads, it doesn't feel quite as buttoned down as the coupe, but it's still plenty comfortable thanks to well-shaped seats and a compliant but athletic ride.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Good
7.8
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The Lexus LC 500 convertible manages to take everything we love about the standard LC coupe and offer open-sky motoring without much sacrifice. It's not the quickest or most powerful car in its class, but a silky-smooth V8 and competent handling make it one of the most entertaining. It's a beauty, too, both inside and out, with some lovely details and flair. Cargo space is extremely limited, and we're still frustrated by some of the controls and menus, but the LC convertible is so charming in other areas that it's easy to overlook its flaws.
How does the LC 500 Convertible drive? The LC 500 convertible is more about feel and experience and less about sheer performance. For the class, raw acceleration and braking figures are somewhat disappointing. But when you're actually behind the wheel those figures are easy to forgive. The 5.0-liter V8 engine is a real standout, with smooth, linear power all the way to redline and one of the best sounding exhaust notes today. It's a real joy to rev out.
The steering lacks feel but is quick, direct and firm without feeling heavy. The suspension is tuned to provide comfort rather than sport, but it's still adequately responsive. Lexus improved on the LC's brake feel, making it easy to modulate and come to a smooth stop. The transmission is mostly issue-free, though we did encounter the occasional hiccup in low-speed traffic.
Comfort
8.5/10
How comfortable is the LC 500 Convertible? On-road comfort is where the LC 500 convertible really shines. The ride quality is smooth and refined, soaking up bumps without feeling overly soft or bouncy. On particularly rough roads, it doesn't feel quite as buttoned down as the LC coupe, but it's not far off.
The seats in the LC are fantastic, with well-shaped seat backs that are supportive without feeling confining. They're well ventilated, too, and even have a small warm-air vent below the headrests to keep your neck warm when the top is down.
The LC is quiet, too. It's easy to have a conversation with the top up or down. Plus, you get to listen to its wonderful V8. The climate-control system works well, though the vents are somewhat ill placed and require some time to aim just right.
Interior
7.5/10
How’s the interior? The LC convertible's interior is much the same as the LC coupe's. Despite the low ride height and long doors, getting in and out is fairly easy thanks to a seat that's not overly bolstered and just about the right height. The power-adjustable steering wheel offers a good deal of adjustment and moves out of the way when the car's off. The driving position is excellent, with well-placed controls and a good view of the gauges and the road ahead.
The rear window is narrow, but no worse than other convertibles in this class. Some drivers may find the interior to be tight, but the doors are shaped in a way that provides plenty of elbow room.
The LC's awkward controls and onscreen menu layout are the most significant liabilities. It's just generally unintuitive; the controls for the heated seats, for example, are inconveniently hidden in a submenu. The touchpad interface is cumbersome at best.
Technology
7/10
How’s the tech? Lexus has improved the infotainment system slightly with the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. But it still uses the cumbersome touchpad interface and menus that hide some often-used controls. The system itself looks dated, too, especially compared to the latest ones found in the LC's rivals. Voice commands work fine. While not as robust as some of the competition, the LC can understand natural language and can interface with the media, radio, navigation and climate-control system.
Lexus includes a decent suite of standard driver aids such as traffic-adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist with lane departure warning. We'd like a surround-view camera system, but the combo of parking sensors with a standard backup camera works decently.
Storage
6/10
How’s the storage? We don't expect stylish convertibles like this to offer much in the way of storage. Even with that lowered expectation, the LC convertible is quite disappointing. The cargo space is barely large enough for a few bags, and it's shallow — you really have to be careful to keep groceries from being smashed.
The cabin isn't any better. Other than the small center console, the LC lacks any real place to put small items such as sunglasses or your phone. The door pockets are tight, as are the cupholders. The only real saving grace is the rear seat. Given its small size, it is better used for cargo than for people anyway.
Fuel Economy
7.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates the LC convertible's fuel economy at 18 mpg combined (15 city, 25 highway), one mpg lower than the coupe. That's just about average for V8-powered competitors. Our car managed a hugely impressive 25.8 mpg on our 115-mile standardized test route, though conditions with weather and traffic were highly favorable during that drive. In general, we think you'll have little trouble matching the EPA's numbers.
Value
8/10
Is the LC 500 Convertible a good value? The LC 500 convertible commands a premium over the coupe, but that's generally true for any convertible with a coupe variant. The list of standard features is generous. You also get excellent build quality. Just about every surface is covered with leather, and most of the switchgear is metal or feels like metal. Lexus really focused on making sure the convertible is just as solid as the coupe. Sure, you can find more performance for the price elsewhere, but as pure luxury goes, it's hard to find a better deal in this class.
The LC's 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty are above average for the class. Lexus includes four years of roadside assistance and a year of free maintenance.
Wildcard
10/10
Looks are subjective, but we think the LC 500 convertible is one of the best looking cars on the road today. It packs flair without being loud or flashy, and has tons of little touches like the checkered pattern on the door or the mirrored taillights that show that Lexus really cares about the details.
It's fun to drive, too, despite being somewhat slow for the class. The V8 is a real sweetheart, with an exhaust note that sings like a chorus in perfect harmony. You just want to keep revving it out to redline. It's engaging enough to be fun on a winding road, yet comfortable cruising on the highway or rolling around town. Few automakers manage to put together such a charming and entertaining package.
Which LC 500 Convertible does Edmunds recommend?
The LC 500 convertible only comes in a single well-equipped trim. It commands a premium over the LC 500 Coupe but offers the same features and refinement as its hardtop sibling.
2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible models
The 2021 Lexus LC 500 convertible comes in a single trim level. As with the LC Coupe, the convertible has a small back seat. Power comes from a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 (471 horsepower, 398 pound-feet of torque) paired with a 10-speed automatic that drives the rear wheels. Feature highlights include:
LC 500 convertible Comes standard with:
20-inch wheels
LED headlights
Power-operated soft top
Power-adjustable front seats
2 USB ports
Keyless entry with push-button start
12-speaker audio system
10.3-inch infotainment screen
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa integration
4G LTE Wi-Fi (requires AT&T subscription after trial period)
It also has driver safety aids such as:
Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between vehicle and the car in front)
Automatic high-beam assist
Lane keeping assist (steers the car back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker)
Lane departure warning (alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane)
Active rolls bars that deploy automatically during a collision
Options on the 2021 LC convertible include:
All-Weather package
Heated steering wheel
Windshield wiper de-icer
Touring package
Includes All-Weather package features
Upgraded leather seating
13-speaker Mark Levinson audio system
Automatic heated and ventilated seats
Inspiration Series
Limited to just 100 units
Comes with special "Structural Blue" paint and white leather interior
Mark Levinson audio system
21-inch wheels
Limited-slip differential
Heated seats and steering wheel
Inspiration Series logos and serial number plate
Individual options include:
21-inch wheels
13-speaker Mark Levinson audio system
Torsen limited-slip differential and Yamaha performance damper for improved performance and handling
Head-up display
See Edmunds pricing data
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Just bought my LC500 convertible last week. I drove to Arizona to pick it up. I had ordered a 2021 Mercedes AMG GT stealth edition roadster. After test driving a few used GTs I realized it's too cramped and small for me (6'4" 280). I had researched the LC500 before ordering the GT and really liked it. What a great decision to buy the LC500 instead. Combination of style, comfort, power, … luxury, and WOW factor. The craftsmanship is superior. I've loved pretty much everything about this car. Many don't like the infotainment system but it's not that bad once you get used to it. Seats are comfortable but at my size my rear end doesn't fit well in the width. I bought a cushion to level it out and makes it much better. I'll write another review when I hit 10k
UPDATE 13k miles...still going great. What a fabulous vehicle. Did have brake pads replaced by dealer due to squeaking. Covered under warranty. Continue to read hundreds of glowing reviews about this car. A piece of art.
Quick, comfortable and the perfect everyday car. Nods of approval and wow nothing like it comments. Plenty of Porsche’s, BMW’s and Mercedes in the West coast. This Lexus turns heads!
I still can’t believe how smooth the ride is with the top up or down. This is definitely a looker. Lexus really took it to the next level. I will put this car up against any out there. I love this car.
After about a month of owning the LC convertible, I am convinced that this is the perfect Southwest Florida cruiser. What do I like about it? Great seats. This thing is a growler....if you want it to be. Sport+ mode is a blast. The car sounds like no other Lexus I have owned. Interior is elegant. The convertible roof is a technical work of art. The ride is comfortable.....perfect … for a run down Alligator Alley to Miami. The car is beautiful. It ain't cheap, but I think its a bargain in comparison to its competitors.
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