2017 Lexus LC500 and LC500h hybrid arrive with identical $190K pricetags

Two versions of the striking Lexus LC 2+2 coupe have arrived in Australia priced sharing a $190,000 price tag, offering buyers a choice between naturally aspirated V8 power in the LC500, and V6 hybrid efficiency in the LC500h.

The LC500 features a high-revving 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine producing 351kW and 540Nm, with a 10-speed automatic gearbox and standard LSD.

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Powering the LC500h is a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and hybrid system featuring a lithium-ion battery, with total outputs of 264kW and 348Nm. The LC500h combines a four-speed automatic with a CVT to simulate 10 gear ratios for what Lexus calls its multi stage hybrid system.

Acceleration from 0-100km/h takes 4.7 seconds for the V8 and 5.0 seconds for the V6 hybrid. Fuel economy is listed at 11.6L/100km and 6.7L/100km respectively. Lexus expects the LC will target buyers of the BMW 6 Series and Mercedes-Benz SL.

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It is a little over five years since the Japanese luxury brand wowed crowds at the 2012 Detroit motor show with the outlandish LF-LC concept coupe, on which the production Lexus LC’s design is based. It is 55mm longer, 75mm wider and 45mm lower than the Lexus RC coupe.

Only subtle hybrid badging on the outside of the LC500h separates the two models externally. Lexus has 11 paint options available, including the new Zinnia Yellow colour.

Standard equipment for both variants includes:

- LED headlights and taillights

- 21in forged alloy wheels

- 8in digital dashboard display

- Head-up display

- Ambient lighting

- Adaptive dampers

- Eight airbags and Lexus Safety System+

- 13 speaker stereo with noise cancellation

- 10.3in central infotainment display

- Glass panoramic roof

- Heated and ventilated electric front seats

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A $15,000 Enhancement Kit is the only option available. It adds:

- Four-wheel steering

- Variable ratio steering

- Active rear spoiler

- Carbonfibre roof (replacing panoramic roof)

- Alcantara upholstery

- Carbonfibre scuff plates

- Active exhaust (for V8 models)

- Limited slip differential (for V6 models)

Lexus Australia has said 35 orders have already been taken, and it expects to deliver 100 cars by the end of the year. The Lexus LC is on sale from today.