Talk about feeling like a million bucks (and then some!) All it takes is some time in the absolutely stunning - inside and out - 2024 Lexus LC 500 Convertible. This, my friends, is the stuff dreams are made of. And as if it wasn't a supremely special vehicle already, this year the LC 500 Convertible adds an available Bespoke Build customization option where you can mix and match performance and styling components.
Exterior
To start, the LC 500 Convertible's design is absolutely breathtaking. It's unarguably one of the most gorgeous luxury two-door luxury sports convertibles on the road today. And in a new-for-2024 Copper Crest hue, you'd better believe it turns heads. Sunlight gives it just this glorious glow.
A sleek front end emphasizes the LC 500's low stance and center of gravity. Lexus' hallmark grille is flanked by Triple-Beam LED headlights. And wow check out those wheels! All-new, optional 21-inch forged alloy wheel with a gloss black metallic coating and machined finish definitely dazzle. Flush door handles add to its sleek profile.
The tail end sweeps up slightly and features dimensional combination rear taillights, a spoiler and a light integrated into the trunk lid.
Performance
Power lurks beneath the rear-wheel drive LC 500's sculpted hood. Specifically, 471-horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque thanks to a naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8 with an incredible roar to back it up. The engine is paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. While the convertible is heavier than the coupe, its 471-horses are more than up to the task and acceleration is amazing.
Interior
Quality, craftsmanship and impeccable attention to detail cannot escape immediate observation when opening the driver's side door.
The Bespoke Build option is really something else. Case in point. I don't typically sit and stare a photos of door panels. But that's exactly what I did while writing this review. Their design and mix of textures is simply exquisite. The Bespoke Build is a customization option that allows you to mix certain performance and style features. These models come with a unique interior badge on the center console and include a signed certificate of authenticity printed on Japanese washi paper.
This Bespoke Build features a new White and Blue interior option that is absolutely gorgeous. Stitching is perfection. Heated and cooled Semi-Aninline leather power front seats are incredibly designed and feature Lexus logo on the back of the cushy headrests.
The Convertible's interior is suited for colder temps thanks to the optional Lexus Climate Concierge with Upper Body Heating. It manages the AC, seat heaters neck heaters and steering-wheel heater. The leather-wrapped steering wheel is heated to thanks to another optional package.
New to the LC 500 this year: a standard 12.3-inch high-definition touchscreen display. With a Drive Connect trial you get the "Hey Lexus" Intelligent Assistant as well as navigation. The multimedia system is compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Dual Bluetooth Connectivity and is capable of over-the-air updates. A WiFi hotspot is also available.
As you might imagine, practicality isn't what the LC 500 is going for. So it's no surprise the rear seat isn't suitable for much. However, you can certainly fit some groceries in the trunk, just avoid any bulk shopping.
Soft-Top
A four-layer lightweight soft-top in black operates seamlessly from controls on the center console. It's really impressive to watch. It opens in approximately 15 seconds and closes in roughly 16 seconds and can do so at up to speeds of 30 miles an hour. It does so quietly, too.
Ride and Drive
It's an incredible experience to be behind the wheel of the LC 500 Convertible, a vehicle that begs to be driven with the top down. Wind blocking mechanisms are quite impressive. They include a removable wind screen as well as a built-in wind deflector.
You'll enjoy Comfort Mode on long stretches. Sport and Sport+ modes amp up the performance and handling factor by tightening the steering response and stiffening the suspension. Its suspension by the way is tuned specifically for the convertible and the LC 500 convertible features Adaptive Variable Suspension and standard rear performance damper.
The performance brakes are on point delivering confident braking for a vehicle weighing in at over 4,500 pounds.
Safety
The LC 500 benefits from standard Lexus Safety System 2.5+. It includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Intelligent High Beam Headlamps.
Blind Spot Monitor is also standard as is a Panoramic View Monitor and Intuitive Parking Assist.
Options
Options include the White and Blue interior ($1,900), Bespoke Build Package ($5,500), Semi-Aninline leather-trimmed front seats (no charge), and All-Weather package ($250), 21-inch forged gloss Black Metallic Alloy Wheels with Machined Finish, a Head-Up Display ($900), a Mark Levinson Premium Audio System ($1,220), Climate Concierge with Upper Body Heating ($920) and Premium Paint. ($595)
MSRP with all these additional goodies, as equipped, is $117,675.
Verdict
The 2024 LC 500 Convertible Bespoke Build is a stunning and undeniable masterpiece in design and performance. But it's also much more than that. it connects with the driver in a way few vehicles can, delivering a feeling of true joy to those who sit behind the wheel, if only for a brief while, only to dream of doing so once again.
- What I liked most: Stunning design, soft-top, impeccably crafted Blue and White interior and incredible performance.
- What I would change: Not a thing.
- MSRP: Base price: $105, 200; as equipped with transportation $117,675.
- Fuel Economy: 15 city/25 highway/18 combined.
- Odometer reading when tested: 133 miles.
- Weight: 4,550 pounds.
- Spare Tire: Tire Repair Kit.
- Length-Width-Height: 187.4” long/ 75.6” wide/53.2” high.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.7 gallons w/filler on the driver's side. (Premium required.)
- Official Color: Copper Crest.
- Towing Capacity: N/A.
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2024 Lexus LC 500 Convertible in a few words: Perfection in a two-door luxury convertible that is a pure joy to drive.
- Warranty: Four-year/50,000-mile Lexus Limited Warranty. Six-year/70,000-mile Powertrain Warranty. Six-year/unlimited-mileage Corrosion Perforation Warranty.
- Final Assembly Location: Aichi, Japan.
- Manufacturer's Website: Lexus
