2022 Lexus LC 500h — Luxuriously posh, visually stunning, now with a hybrid



By Jim Prueter
MotorwayAmerica.com

(August 14, 2022) First introduced for the 2018 model year, the LC 500 is offered as a sports coupe, a a gorgeous grand touring 2+2 power-retractable soft top convertible was added last year and there’s also a hybridized LC 500h tested here, the world’s first vehicle with Multi Stage hybrid capability.


There’s little debate the LC 500 is one of the most beautiful looking, luxurious and sports cars produced today competing in the same grand touring arena as the BMW 8-Series, Porsche 911 and Jaguar F-TYPE albeit with a driving demeanor favoring luxury over track performance and handling.

Offered with a choice of two powertrains, a 471 horsepower 5.0-liter V-8 and a 354 horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 and a pair of electric motors with a 1.1-kWh lithium-ion battery and a unique continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) pairs with a four-speed automatic transmission sending power to the rear wheel drive. The hybrid acceleration of 0-60 mph is reached in 4.8 seconds with an estimated top speed of 155mph.

The big new for the 2022 LC 500h is a new Bespoke build trim customization to fit buyers personalized expectations. Bespoke offers a wide variety of eleven exterior color choices, our Ultra White coupe included a striking Manhattanhenge orange and black interior color that Lexus says suggests the distinctive New York City skyline. It also included an active carbon-fiber rear wing and roof, polished 21-inch spoke wheels and sport seats with deeper cushions along with a unique Bespoke badge is affixed to the center console.

We’ve driven both the more powerful V-8 powered LC 500 and the hybrid LC 500h and we much prefer the non-hybrid over the heavier and $5,000 more expensive hybrid even though you’ll save bucks at the pump with improved gas mileage. Our biggest decision would be in choosing the coupe or drop top but if you like Bespoke know that it is only offered in coupe form.

Coupe or convertible, hybrid or not, the Lexus LC is luxuriously posh and visually beautiful, distinctive with exceptional driving dynamics with stage presence and savior-faire that’s nearly off the charts.

Vital stats

2022 Lexus LC 500h
Base price: $99,050
Price as tested: $115,285
Engine: 3.5-L V6 hybrid
Horsepower: 354
Fuel economy: 26/34 mpg city/highway
Seating: 4

Fab features:
Bespoke customization
Efficient hybrid power
Head turning design