2023 Lexus LC 500 test drive review

When people think of luxurious, high-powered sports cars, they think Corvette. It’s always on the bucket list, and why wouldn’t you want to experience the two-seat, V8-powered sports car legend? Well, because you haven’t driven the 2023 Lexus LC 500. 

The LC 500 has been out for several years but has never been a big seller. Lexus continues to make it, and admittedly, I wasn’t sure why. But then I finally drove it, and holy mackerel, it’s a joy. Everything about the LC is superb, from its supermodel styling to its strong and exotic-sounding 5.0-liter V8 to its ease of daily drivability. This Lexus is one of the most underrated, truly excellent cars on the market today — and I really want one. 

Curious about the LC 500? Find it on KSL Cars. 

Price and value 

Let’s get this out of the way: the LC 500 isn’t cheap. The starting price is $95,800 and crests over the $100,000 mark for the hybrid and convertible versions. That said, it might just be worth it if you’re in the market for a V8-powered, rear-wheel drive sports car. Lexus's reliability is legendary, and the build quality and materials in the LC are exceptional. It’s a lot to pay, but you really do get what you pay for with this one. 

It’s available in three configurations, with a suite of standard features that includes rear-wheel drive, a 5.0-liter naturally-aspirated V8 or a hybrid 3.5-liter V6 and a 10-speed direct-shift automatic transmission or continuously variable automatic transmission. Some of the major differences are noted below. 

• LC 500: $95,800 See listings

4.4-second 0-60 mph time 

10-speed direct-shift automatic transmission 

471 horsepower

• LC 500h: $101,800 See listings

Lexus multistage hybrid drive 

354 total system horsepower

34 highway mpg 

• LC 500 Convertible: $103,850 See listings

471 horsepower 

Soft-top design 

5.0-liter V8

Performance 

The LC 500 is not going to be the star of the track. But, for 90% of buyers, this car will perfectly handle most of what you throw at it. The V8 is glorious. Put it in Sport+ mode and let it rip all the way to redline — you’ll notice a sound and thrust typically reserved for exotics. And since the engine is essentially a Toyota product, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that the drivetrain isn’t going to break when pushed hard. 

The 10-speed direct-shift automatic transmission is likewise excellent, snapping off shifts intuitively and with authority. It’s supremely well suited to the car’s demeanor, whether toddling around town or accelerating down an on-ramp. I only had it a week, and I’m ready to declare that downshifting in this car is one of the life’s great joys.   

Car and Driver clocked the 471 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque LC 500 from 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds. It feels faster than that, but this car isn’t about the spec sheet. It’s about the smooth and comfortable power delivery. Shop 2023 Lexus LC 500 models. 

Contributing to the experience was our tester’s $9,570 Dynamic Handling Package. This expensive yet worthwhile package includes performance goodies such as active rear steering, a speed-activated rear wing, a Torsen limited-slip differential, performance brake pads, a carbon fiber roof and more. 

In addition to the mesmerizing engine, the adaptive variable suspension makes this a supremely comfortable daily driver. It feels confident and grounded, never unsettled by imperfections in the road. You’d likely be more than satisfied having the LC 500 as your only car. 

Not sure about having rear-wheel drive on your only car? It’s a fair concern for car buyers, especially those concerned with inclement weather. While I didn’t drive it in the snow, I was able to experience the LC’s handling in some torrential summer rain storms. And while I expected to slip all over the freeway as I white-knuckled it home from work, I couldn’t have been more wrong. Not once did the LC lose its grip. It was impressive. A lot of credit probably goes to the Bridgestone Turanza tires, but still, it was very reassuring to know you can enjoy this car in nearly every season and driving condition.

Interior comfort and convenience 

The interior of the LC 500 is a special place to be. Everything from the seats to the driving position, to the dash design and the materials are all in a class of their own, even when compared to others in the Lexus lineup. It’s so unique, well-styled and comfortable that I was sad every time I had to exit it. Two full-size adults will have plenty of space to stretch out, even for long road trips.

On the downside, interior storage space is almost non-existent. There’s enough for some smaller items here and there, but don’t expect much in terms of cubbies and compartments. The rear seat space, however, is surprisingly useful — just not for humans. The legroom is very tight, but the seats are deep enough to squeeze two smaller children (albeit mostly in cross-legged fashion). What the rear seats do offer is a much-appreciated space to put bags, some groceries or other cargo.

As for the infotainment system, it was frustrating to operate. The screen is not a touch screen and is shielded behind plastic, so the menus are only accessed by an underwhelming touchpad near the center armrest. It’s not user-friendly, and we found ourselves avoiding it as much as possible. Thankfully, for the 2024 model year, the LC 500 receives an all-new infotainment touchscreen we can’t wait to try. Shop 2023 Lexus LC 500 models.

Exterior appearance and functionality 

When the LC 500 showed up in my driveway, my jaw literally dropped. Sure, the design is a few years old, but few things have captured my eye quite the way the LC 500 has. It’s stunning. It’s sultry yet muscular. It’s presence is svelte, suave and confident. It’s timelessly beautiful, and will surely be a show-stopper at car shows decades from now.

Our tester was finished in Cadmium Orange, a $595 option that is well worth the extra dough. Lexus offers the LC 500 in several other eye-catching colors including Infrared, Flare Yellow and Nori Green Pearl. 

Safety 

The LC 500 features eight airbags and a bevy of modern safety features, including forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. As of the time of this writing, it has not yet been tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. 

In addition to these safety features, the LC 500 has the pieces in place to be a reliable and long lasting ride, given Lexus’s legendary reputation for building cars with longevity. For extra peace of mind, though, Lexus offers strong warranty coverage. Options included a limited warranty that covers four years or 50,000 miles, a more expansive powertrain warranty that lasts for six years or 70,000 miles, and complimentary maintenance for one year or 10,000 miles. Shop 2023 Lexus LC 500 models. 

Awards and ratings 

This sleek and stylish Lexus has won numerous awards over the years. Some of these include: 

• The Best Luxury Car of 2021 in the Women’s World Car of the Year awards.

• The Luxury Performance Car of Texas and the Luxury Car of Texas by the Texas Auto Writers Association. 

• Named to Wards’ 10 Best Interiors list. 

• Numerous other design awards. 

Final impression 

The Lexus LC 500 is what happens when style and substance are taken to their most impressive ends. It’s the car everyone wants, but nobody knows about. Its V8 engine, superb driving experience and endlessly beautiful styling (both inside and out) make it an extremely compelling option — if you’re willing to look past its more popular competitors. 

The LC won my heart, and I wouldn’t hesitate to buy one if I were in the market — and had $100,000 to indulge myself with. It may not be American muscle, but this Japanese superhero is so good, you won’t even care. In short, the 2023 Lexus LC 500 is one of the most underrated vehicles on the market today.

Shop 2023 Lexus LC 500 models.  

FAQs 

Who is the 2023 Lexus LC 500 for? 

This is an excellent car for people with money to spend on what is essentially a two-seat, V8-powered, rear-wheel drive grand tourer. It’s not the most dynamical or hardcore vehicle, but what it lacks in track performance it more than makes up for in comfort and excellent daily drivability.  

Is the 2023 Lexus LC 500 practical? 

Not really. There is just enough room in the backseat for small children but is better used for bags and groceries. The trunk isn’t all that large, either, but should swallow just enough luggage for a weekend getaway.

*KSL Cars does not endorse any vehicles. The views or opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer and do not reflect the views or opinions of KSL.com or its employees.

About the author: Having owned everything from a DeLorean to an E46 BMW M3 and a Toyota Land Cruiser, Jason Bell is a lifelong car enthusiast who loves sharing his passions as a teacher, automotive journalist and social media manager. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press where he serves on the Board of Directors. Contact him at jasonbellcars@gmail.com