Lexus has revealed more details about the Geneva-bound LC 500h, confirming the hybrid version of its range-topping LC coupe will come with a new V6 hybrid.
A “Multi Stage Hybrid” system pairs a 220kW 3.5-litre V6 to an electric motor and battery pack, for a total system output of 264kW. This is down on the 348kW and 527Nm of the 5.0-litre V8-powered LC 500 shown at Detroit. As a result, it is half a second slower across 0-100km/h, rated at a still-respectable “sub 5.0 seconds”.
Inside, the hybrid gains Lexus’s next-gen user interface pad – or Remote Touch Interface (RTI) as it calls it – and the latest suite of driver assist technologies within “Lexus Safety System +”. It includes All-speed Adaptive Cruise Control, automatic high-beam, lane-keep assist, and a millimetre-wave radar. Other standard equipment includes a Mark Levinson sound system.
The new model model is shown in a striking blue, in contrast to the vibrant red shown on the LC 500. A different interior colour scheme is shown as well, with schematics of the hybrid system also made available. It shares dimensions with its non-hybrid brother, at 4.76m long, 1.92m wide and 1.34m tall, on a 2.87m wheelbase.
Some of the other interesting highlights include a four-speed automatic transmission, 20- or optional 21-inch forged alloy wheels, a carbon fibre body structure and roof, and an all-new GA-L platform which will be used for other future high-end rear-wheel drive Lexus models.
Lexus Australia has previously confirmed the LC will go on sale locally. It is yet to officially confirm if both the LC 500 and LC 500h will be offered, but it does very likely.
