Lexus to Make a Hybrid LC 500h Version

The days of hybrid vehicles being behind the curve in terms of design are over, and Lexus plans to prove how far it’s taken the hybrid concept when they unveil the hybrid LC 500h at the Geneva Motor Show this month. The standard LC 500 began turning heads in January of this year when it was revealed at the Detroit Auto Show, and we here at Lexus of Highland Park recently brought you the news on the luxury coupe’s features.

And trust us, a hybrid luxury coupe is a big deal for the current market. The Verge reports that the Lexus LC 500h will be one of the only hybrid GT offerings available next to the BMW i8. But a hybrid LC 500 is more than just a game changer for the hybrid market—it’s a testament that Lexus is focusing on the fulcrum where sporty meets efficient. With fuel efficiency arguably being one of the most, if not the most, important car factor on carmakers’ minds as we progress further into the 21^st century, it’s clear that Lexus has its sights in good order.

The specs on this efficient coupe will feature a new Multi-Stage Hybrid System that beautifully marries efficiency with power, a match that’s difficult to pull off. Under the hood, you’ll find a new four-speed automatic transmission added to a 3.5-liter V6, electric motor and lithium-ion battery pack. But if an automatic isn’t your choice when it comes to sporty driving, have no fear; the Lexus 500h marks the first time that a full-hybrid Lexus can switch to manual mode for direct shifting.

Although Lexus continues to push the envelope on high-powered hybrids, the Lexus LC 500h takes a cut in horsepower when compared to the standard LC 500, with a horsepower of 354 and 467, respectively. However, Giz Mag assures us that there’s enough power to go from 0-62 mph “well into the sub-5 second range,” which isn’t far off the mark from the standard LC 500’s “less than 4.5 seconds” feat.

If you’re worried that other features might be missing from this hybrid luxury coupe, our short answer is: don’t be. The Lexus LC 500h will still boast top-end driver assistance features with the new Lexus Safety System +, and the car’s lightweight components, such as aluminum, carbon and glass, will be thrust forward on a newly developed premium rear-wheel drive platform. This platform has a lower center of mass meaning better handling capability and sharper turning from the driver’s seat. You can still expect all of the deluxe interior design points that will be packed into the standard LC 500, such as a next-generation touch pad and a new multimedia infotainment system that’s faster and better than those before it.

If you can’t make it to the Geneva Motor Show this month to see the Lexus LC 500h in person, please visit us at Highland Park Lexus for more information on this luxury sport coupe and to see other Lexus models currently available.