Lexus LC Convertible Concept Preview – Exhilaration Reimagined at the Detroit Auto Show

By Steve & Tamami Laser

Nearly 18 months ago, we completed a weeklong test-drive of the new Lexus LC 500 coupe. We summed up our review by saying, “We love the styling, the performance, the handling; we love everything about it.” And now we’re falling in love all over again with a new concept car that Lexus plans to premiere next week at the Detroit Auto Show.

Previewed in a series of photos and a teaser video, the new LC Convertible concept opens up a whole new dimension of exhilaration. Lexus says the goal of the concept is the expression of “ultimate beauty.”

As an aspirational halo vehicle for the luxury brand’s lineup, Lexus says that the concept was designed to evoke an emotional response; from the rake of the windshield to the contours of the decklid that encloses the retractable top.

Like the coupe, the LC Convertible concept features a wide, low and aggressive stance. It retains the mesh-style Lexus signature grille flanked by ultra-compact LED triple-projector headlights and L-shaped “arrowhead” LED daytime running lights, while also sporting unique 22-inch wheels.

The coupe is available as the LC 500 with its high-output V8 engine and 10-speed direct-shift transmission, and the LC 500h that teams a V6 with a Multi Stage Hybrid system and two electric motors via the Lexus Hybrid Synergy Drive.

Inside, the LC Convertible concept retains the 2+2 seating configuration of the coupe. The seats are dressed with white leather trim and snazzy gold accent stitching. We also notice anchor points on the windshield header for the top. That could indicate the concept is more than just a styling exercise and may preview a future production model.

Other details shared with the coupe include built-in grab handles for the front seat passenger, a small diameter thick-rimmed three-spoke steering wheel, and 10.3-inch center display with an easy-to-use Remote Touch controller.

The big question that remains: Will Lexus build it?

News source and photos courtesy of Lexus Division of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Story (commentary) © 2019 CarNichiWa.com