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 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.
Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to Edmunds, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.
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
Minor suspension adjustments designed to improve handling
Part of the first LC 500 generation introduced for 2018
Overview
Glancing at the spec sheet for the 2022 Lexus LC 500 Convertible might leave you feeling a tad underwhelmed. For the six-figure sum it commands, you might expect more than 471 horsepower, or more than 4 cubic feet of storage space. You might reasonably expect a usable rear seat, or even a less clever touchpad-style tech interface.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2022 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 $3.92 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
But the LC 500 is a car that's really more than the sum of its numbers. The LC 500 is all about feel, starting with the curves and pronounced angles of its bodywork, continuing with the luxurious expanse of cabin leather, and galvanized by the wash of power from its silky V8. We wouldn't call it exhilarating, but it is very satisfying. This year, the convertible gets a handful of new color choices and subtle suspension adjustments aimed at improved handling. It's a commendable gesture from Lexus, but riotous changes in direction are not the LC 500's forte. Rather, it's a car you point forward, press on the gas and choose a destination many miles away. And lower the top when the sun's out. Read our Expert Rating below to learn more about where the LC 500 Convertible ranks among other sport-luxury convertibles.
Edmunds Expert Rating
good
7.8/10
Edmunds 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.
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 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 adequately responsive. Lexus improved on the LC's brake feel, making it easy to control 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 seatbacks 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 not ideally placed and require some time to aim just right.
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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 it's no worse than what's in other convertibles in this class. Some drivers might 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
7.0/10
How’s the tech? Lexus has improved the infotainment system slightly with the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. But it 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 they're 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
6.0/10
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), 1 mpg lower than the coupe. That's just about average for V8-powered competitors. Our car managed an 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
8.0/10
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 four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and six-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
10.0/10
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 it has tons of little touches like mirrored taillights and the checkered pattern on the door that show that Lexus really cares about the details.
It's fun to drive too even though it's 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 it's 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. A pricey optional Touring package adds 21-inch forged wheels, upgraded leather seats and a premium audio system among other items. It's tempting, but we'd just opt for the audio system on its own. For those in cold climates, the All-Weather package might be worth it for the heated steering wheel.
Lexus LC 500 Convertible models
The 2022 Lexus LC 500 Convertible comes in a single trim level. Power comes from a 5.0-liter V8 (471 horsepower, 398 lb-ft of torque) paired with a 10-speed automatic that drives the rear wheels. Like the LC Coupe, the convertible is nominally a four-passenger car. Realistically, the back seat is small and inhospitable to humans.
Feature highlights of the LC 500 Convertible include:
20-inch wheels
Adaptive suspension
LED headlights
Power-operated soft top
Keyless entry with push-button start
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Power-adjustable front seats
Heated and ventilated front seats
10.3-inch infotainment screen
Navigation
12-speaker audio system
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa integration
Two USB ports
4G LTE Wi-Fi (requires AT&T subscription after trial period)
It also has driver safety aids such as:
Automatic emergency braking
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 for the LC 500 Convertible include:
All-Weather package
Heated steering wheel
Windshield wiper de-icer
Touring package
Includes All-Weather package features
21-inch forged alloy wheels
Upgraded leather seating
Automatic heated and ventilated seats
13-speaker Mark Levinson audio system
Individual options include:
21-inch wheels with run-flat summer tires
Torsen limited-slip differential and Yamaha performance damper for improved performance and handling
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.
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.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2022 Lexus LC 500 Convertible, so we've included reviews for other years of the LC 500 Convertible since its last redesign.
The Porsche 911 convertible has evolved through decades of success and desirability, and today's 911 is the most refined and well appointed yet. It's more expensive than the Lexus and lacks many of the LC's standard features, but it's more of a precision-handling sports car and offers a wider array of engine choices. All-wheel drive is also available, as is a Targa model with a removable roof section that splits the difference between coupe and convertible.
The 8 Series convertible is larger than the LC 500 and offers more interior and cargo space, and like the Lexus, it's made for covering long distances in exceptional comfort. The 8 Series is also remarkably agile given its heft (though it weighs less than the LC), and its standard turbo six-cylinder engine delivers excellent performance and better fuel economy than the LC's V8. The 8 Series also offers an optional V8 and all-wheel drive, though both come at a bit of a wallet-busting price that ends up well over the LC 500's.
It’s amusing to think of a $70,000 car as a terrific value, but in the context of sport-luxury convertibles, the Corvette really does offer tremendous bang for the buck. It lacks a rear seat like the LC (small as it may be), as well as the Lexus' luxury touches and refinement. But the Corvette's V8 engine is meaty and slightly more powerful than the LC's, and it offers nearly four times the cargo space. While the Corvette may not be as sophisticated as the Lexus, it strikes an impressive balance between performance and comfort.
Maintains a set distance between the LC 500 and the car in front, automatically adjusting speed. Can bring the LC 500 to a full stop.
Pre-Collision System
Sounds an alert if a front collision with a vehicle or pedestrian is deemed imminent. Can also automatically apply the brakes.
Intuitive Park Assist
Sounds an alert as the LC 500 approaches an object in front of or behind the car.
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FAQ
Is the Lexus LC 500 Convertible a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2022 LC 500 Convertible both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.8 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2022 LC 500 Convertible gets an average rating of 5 stars out of 5 (based on 13 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the LC 500 Convertible has 3.4 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Lexus LC 500 Convertible. Learn more
What's new in the 2022 Lexus LC 500 Convertible?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2022 Lexus LC 500 Convertible:
Minor suspension adjustments designed to improve handling
Part of the first LC 500 generation introduced for 2018
To determine whether the Lexus LC 500 Convertible is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the LC 500 Convertible. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the LC 500 Convertible's 5-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2022 Lexus LC 500 Convertible a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2022 Lexus LC 500 Convertible is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2022 LC 500 Convertible and gave it a 7.8 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2022 LC 500 Convertible gets an average rating of 5 stars out of 5 (based on 13 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2022 LC 500 Convertible is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2022 Lexus LC 500 Convertible?
The least-expensive 2022 Lexus LC 500 Convertible is the 2022 Lexus LC 500 Convertible 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 10A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $101,200.
Other versions include:
2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 10A) which starts at $101,200
What are the different models of Lexus LC 500 Convertible?
If you're interested in the Lexus LC 500 Convertible, the next question is, which LC 500 Convertible model is right for you? LC 500 Convertible variants include 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 10A). For a full list of LC 500 Convertible models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
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