Lexus LC500 Convertible revealed

Lexus has revealed the production version of the Lexus LC500 Convertible it recently teased as a concept at the 2019 Detroit auto show.

Limited to just 300 units from launch, the drop-top LC500 is only the third convertible in the history of the Lexus brand.

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Finished in Lexus’ very special colour called Morphic Blue, which the brand claims took 15 years to perfect, the convertible will also be available here in Australia with arrivals expected in the second half of 2020, though pricing and availability hasn’t yet been confirmed by Lexus Australia.

Mechanically, the LC500 convertible retains the specification of the coupe, with a 5.0-litre V8 producing 351kW and 540Nm. While the engine sounds aggressive enough on its own, Lexus says the convertible features a generator which produces “sensual engine intake sound through the dash.”

Of course, the primary difference in the design revolves around changes made to accommodate the roof, which can retract in 15 seconds up to 50km/h.

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The soft-top was designed to blend with the shape of the bodywork, keeping sleek lines without the roof’s support frame being visible through the fabric.

The LC500’s body structure was also altered for rigidity, with components like the rocker panel and underbody given additional bracing. The front ‘roof’ frame and rear suspension tower brace were also lightened through use of different materials (magnesium alloy and die-cast aluminium respectively) to keep the convertible’s weight gain minimal.

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Lexus also says its 52:48 weight distribution is slightly more rearward than the coupe.

MOTOR has contacted Lexus Australia for confirmation of local pricing and availability.