2021 Lexus LC 500 Review

Name: 2021 Lexus LC 500
Brand: Lexus

Price: $84,990

The 2021 LC 500 is a gorgeous car with a glorious V8 engine, a smooth ride, and a quiet, luxurious interior highlighted by advanced, even avant-garde design. It won't click with everyone, but it's tremendous fun to drive, especially on a straight open road. Its weight and handling hinder it from competing as a true sports car. But as a cushy grand-touring, road-trip style of car, the LC excels.

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Average price: $85,920

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2021 Lexus LC 500 Review

Pros

Cabin design and interior materials are extraordinary
Effective at being both sporty and comfortable
Generous list of standard features

Cons

Touchpad controller is frustrating to use
Limited cargo space in trunk and scant interior storage
Not as customizable as other high-end sport coupes

What's new

Revised suspension design for sharper handling
New Active Cornering Assist feature to further improve handling
Revised transmission tuning for a sportier feel of power
New Android Auto smartphone integration
Part of the first LC 500 generation introduced for 2018

Overview

Written by automotive expert Reese Counts

6/19/2020

The 2021 Lexus LC 500 is a sleek and stylish luxury coupe that serves as the flagship car for the Japanese luxury automaker. The LC 500, along with the LC 500h hybrid, debuted in 2018 and quickly became one of our favorite coupes around. Although it's not as sharp to drive as a Porsche 911, the LC does strike a good balance between comfort and performance. It's an excellent grand tourer.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near Ashburn, VA

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Certified 2021 Lexus LC 500
Base Coupe
$86,991
fair price
$881 above market
- 14,482 miles
- No accidents, 3 owners, personal use only
- 8cyl automatic
- Lexus of Towson (54 mi away)
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Towson, MD
Certified. 2021 Lexus LC 500 Ultra White RWD 10-Speed Automatic 5.0L DOHC---L/CERTIFIED---, ---UNLIMITED MILE CERTIFIED WARRANTY---, ---EMERGENCY ROAD...
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:
19 Combined MPG (16 City/25 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTHAP5AY9MA103286
Stock: BT1760
Certified Pre-Owned: Yes
Listed since: 08-13-2025
2021 Lexus LC 500
Base Coupe
$89,995
- 711 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
- 8cyl automatic
- J&S Mitsubishi (167 mi away)
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Ewing, NJ
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:
19 Combined MPG (16 City/25 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTHAP5AY7MA103402
Stock: B4382
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 10-28-2025

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For 2021, the LC 500 gets a few mechanical updates to the suspension and transmission that should improve performance yet maintain the car's overall comfort level. The LC also sheds some unsprung weight, which should further improve the car's performance. Lexus confirms that a new convertible variant is on the way sometime soon, though exact timing remains unclear.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Good

7.7

out of 10

We drove the 2021 Lexus LC 500 on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

7.5/10

How does the LC 500 drive? The LC 500 doesn't offer the same performance as similarly priced sports cars. But if you think of it more like a grand-touring car — a vehicle that balances power, comfort and luxury in equal proportion — its lofty price makes more sense. The burly roar of its V8 engine makes every drive a joy, especially as it climbs high in the rev range before shifting.

Acceleration, however, doesn't quite match the soundtrack. In Edmunds testing, the LC 500 needed 4.9 seconds to go 0-60 mph, which is unremarkable for this class of car. A Porsche 911 Carrera S we tested, for example, ripped to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds. The LC isn't particularly nimble on tight and twisting roads either. But it feels right at home on more gentle sweeping back roads. It's a car made for luxuriating on road trips.

Comfort

8/10

How comfortable is the LC 500? The LC 500's suspension excels at absorbing large bumps and smaller imperfections in the road, even with the big 21-inch wheels fitted on our test car. There's a good balance between sport and comfort, and the suspension insulates the cabin well enough from rough road surfaces without making the car feel disconnected from the pavement. Depending on the road surface, we noticed some tire noise and some wind noise at highway speeds. Otherwise, the LC's cabin is quiet and serene.

The only kinks we found were our test car's optional sport seats. Well-bolstered and wide, the seats are pleasantly supportive, but we found the seatback overly firm and lacking enough lumbar adjustment.

Interior

7.5/10

How’s the interior? Forward visibility is surprisingly good considering the LC 500's windswept profile. The hood's slope and the roundness of the grille, however, can make it hard to judge what's around the car's front end when parking. The rear roof pillars are bulky — typical for a low-slung coupe — but blind-spot monitoring eliminates some of the guesswork from lane changes.

Getting in and out is easier than you'd expect of a car sitting this low, and the driving position feels snug and commanding. And while there is a rear seat, it's comically small and best saved for stowing extra bags. The most frustrating aspect of the interior is the awkward touchpad infotainment interface, which can be distracting to use while driving.

Technology

7/10

How’s the tech? For a car so futuristic-looking, it's unfortunate that it's saddled with Lexus' dated technology inside. The navigation system is clunky and requires some effort simply to input a destination. Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa are standard. You'll want to use your phone, too, since the LC's voice controls require an involved voice-training process before serving up consistent results. The Mark Levinson sound system, however, is outstanding.

A full suite of driver aids is standard, including front and rear parking sensors (helpful given the long hoodline that's hard to see over) and traffic-adaptive cruise control. The adaptive cruise mostly works well but can occasionally be unpredictably overreactive.

Storage

6/10

How’s the storage? The LC 500 has little usable space given its size. There's a woeful lack of small-item storage, not even a decent spot to store your phone for easy access. The 5.4-cubic-foot trunk is larger than a Porsche 911's, but the competitive edge ends there. It's still quite small and shallow, with a high liftover height that makes loading anything more difficult. The back seat is actually the most useful storage space in the vehicle.

The rear seats provide car-seat anchor points for child seats, but access is difficult enough already. Fitting a car seat might be possible, but this Lexus is pretty much a two-person-only car.

Fuel Economy

7.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimate of 19 mpg in combined driving (16 city/25 highway) isn't out of line with figures from the LC 500's competitors. We managed 21 mpg on our standardized 115-mile evaluation route, so that estimate is achievable. That said, most drivers will likely gleefully convert a good percentage of their gas mileage directly into noise.

Value

8/10

Is the LC 500 a good value? Even at its lofty price, the LC 500 gives you a lot of car for the money. Leather, suede and metal (and metal-like plastic) abound, and overall quality and fit and finish are exceptional. It's disappointing that some of Lexus' technology feels outdated, crude or frustrating. The car's astonishing weight is also odd. We'd expect more exotic, lightweight materials at this level.

Despite its mass, we managed 21 mpg combined on our test loop, a better result than the EPA rating. The LC also offers a longer powertrain warranty than many rivals. And given the company's track record, you're unlikely to find a roaring V8 engine that will cost you less in the long run.

Wildcard

10/10

The LC 500 is a car that you'll find excuses to drive. It's unquestionably fun, it sounds great, and it looks amazing. And it's an everyday kind of fun, not just a car that needs a special road to come alive. Even its slow acceleration, relative to its competition, helps as it lets you dig into the engine a little more than you otherwise might.

We would've liked to sample the standard seats, and the LC needs a thorough infotainment and tech overhaul. But overall, it's a roaring, rumbling joy that sticks in your head. Few cars today have such undeniable presence.

2021 Lexus LC 500 trim level differences

The 2021 Lexus LC 500 is available in one trim; the LC 500h hybrid model is reviewed separately. All LC 500s use a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 (471 horsepower, 398 lb-ft of torque). It's paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. Feature highlights include:

Which LC 500 trim does Edmunds recommend?

The Lexus LC 500 is only available in one reasonably well-equipped trim, so pick one of the LC's excellent paint choices and go from there.

Compare 2021 Lexus LC 500 trim levels

Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$232/mo

$155/mo

Avg. Midsize Car

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Reliability

The 2021 Lexus LC 500 has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and no recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Recalls

There are no recalls for the 2021 Lexus LC 500

Warranty

4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 6 years / 70,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 6 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 4 years / unlimited miles
Free maintenance Warranty: 1 years / 10,000 miles

Lexus LC 500 Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.7

32 reviews

5(78%)

4(16%)

3(6%)

2(0%)

1(0%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Bought it for the looks

W.B., 06/29/2017

2018 Lexus LC 500 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 10A)

Update for July 2018: Having now had the car for a year, I can say it gets better over time. I absolutely adore this car as a daily driver and road-tripper. The highway mileage is so good it seems fake. When cruising in Eco mode I'm easily getting 30 mpg. This doesn't even make sense until you realize the car can switch between Atkinson and Otto cycles. The engine scream never gets … old in Sport+ mode. I just can't get enough. Sometimes I switch to Sport+ just to pass people with that crazy loud noise. After a year I expected to have buyer's remorse, or a wandering eye for the Mercedes AMG GT. Or the Porche 911 Carerra. But no. The LC 500 is a car that just grows on you and still turns heads. It's the supermodel you can actually live with everyday. *** Outstanding visual appeal inside and out, with disappointing acceleration. Go for the bespoke option, even though it's a 3-month wait. Neither the touring nor sport packages gives you the correct combination of options. Here's the combination you want, starting from bone-stock, in order of importance: 1. Limited Slip Differential (LSD), 2. Convenience Package, 3. Heads Up Display (HUD). Done. All other packages and options actually worsen the car's performance. Or they package excellent options (like the retractable spoiler) with unnecessary ones (like Variable Gear-Ratio steering). Basically you want the LSD to correct the flaws in the drivetrain. The stock, active, rear open-differential loses too much horsepower at the wheels. The LSD is mechanical: more horsepower, more traction. With the stock differential, you have to pay attention when you're kicking the tail loose. It's still fun, but the LSD gives you +HP +control. No-brainer option there. The Convenience Package gives you parking assist. You must have this. The dimensions of the car make it difficult to park. Parking assist will save you, again and again. Get it, save your body work, make parking garages your best friend. Option 3, the HUD, is just plain cool. It's actually an unintentional safety feature, keeping your eyes focused at near-driving distance. It even shows the song you've cued up from your phone via Bluetooth. After engine break-in, get the dealer to fix the rev limiter to 7,300rpm. It's limited to 7,000rpm off the lot. Peak horsepower is at 7,100rpm so the rev limiter is ruining the fun. Oh, and don't get the hybrid, seriously. You'll regret it. The 33% savings in mileage is not worth it. Just get a Tesla or a BMW i8. Pros: The looks, the sounds, the textures, a fantasy for the senses. True opulence. The car looks twice as expensive as it costs. Ride quality is Lexus smooth. Excellent steering feedback, in bone stock configuration. A masterpiece of emotional driving, makes you want to drive forever. Cons: Slower than a Roush Mustang 427 because the LC 500 drivetrain is not designed for performance. Handles like a Challenger SRT8 (it's that heavy). Costs more than a BMW M4. Out-of-touch infotainment controls. Why you should buy it: Honestly? Because it gives you the emotional response you would expect from a dream car. If you do not feel this way after seeing it then don't buy it. Simple. I personally would have gotten just as much raw driving pleasure from a Mustang GT. However, I have a transcendental experience every time I drive the LC 500. It just takes my breath away. Configuration reviewed: Black on black V8, Convenience Package, All-Weather Package, Touring Package, Heads Up Display.

Finest quality and most fun auto I've ever owned.

Point Man, 10/03/2018

2018 Lexus LC 500 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 10A)

When the time came to replace my aging 2008 BMW M6 (V10) the LC 500 immediately caught my eye. My wife has owned various Lexus SUVs for years, and although none of them or their sedans are my cup of tea, the new coupe was something I had to check out. We have a long first hand experience with the exceptional build quality one can expect from Lexus. My first impression was "wow, …

Best high end Sports Coupe on the Market!

Lexus LC500, 05/16/2018

2018 Lexus LC 500 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 10A)

Ive owed just about everything and purchased the Lexus LC500 recently and had to write a response and review regarding my opinion. First, this car has some of the finest fit and finish materials and unique designs throughout. It is extremely comfortable to drive and more than enough power to enjoy flashing through the 10 speed and let me tell you the sound you can generate with 10 gears …

Had a Corvette Guy High-5 me!

Doug, 08/28/2019

2019 Lexus LC 500 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 10A)

I have been a Corvette guy since the 60's This car replaces a 2013 427 Preferred / 500HP. Virtually a ZO6 with an iron frame. This car is very fun to look at and to drive. I goes like the wind albeit not quite as fast as my Corvette. It is much more fun for my wife to ride in however. That's a Plus Plus Plus! It's almost embarrassing how many people say "nice car"! Yes not …

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2021 Lexus LC 500, so we've included reviews for other years of the LC 500 since its last redesign.

2021 LC 500 Highlights

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$93,050
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	19 MPG
Cost to Drive	$232/month
Seating	4 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	5.4 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

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Safety

Our experts like the LC 500 models:

All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: 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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2021 Lexus LC 500 Review

Price & Payment

2021 Lexus LC 500 Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

For sale near Ashburn, VA

Certified 2021 Lexus LC 500Base Coupe

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

2021 Lexus LC 500Base Coupe

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

Edmunds Expert Rating

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

2021 Lexus LC 500 trim level differences

Which LC 500 trim does Edmunds recommend?

Cost to Drive

Reliability

Recalls

Warranty

Lexus LC 500 Reviews

Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Bought it for the looks

Finest quality and most fun auto I've ever owned.

Best high end Sports Coupe on the Market!

Had a Corvette Guy High-5 me!

2021 LC 500 Highlights

Safety

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Certified 2021 Lexus LC 500
Base Coupe

2021 Lexus LC 500
Base Coupe