Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (270 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2026
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment centered on the vehicle's unique character as a comfortable, reliable, and emotionally engaging grand tourer.
4 problems reported (4 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- IsolatedSevere dashboard reflection with light-colored interiors
Significant glare from tan dashboard onto windshield in sunlight, impairing visibility.
- IsolatedMultiple electronic system malfunctions (isolated case)
A 2021 model exhibited a recurring cascade of errors including pre-collision, blind-spot monitor, lane keeping, and brake system malfunctions that dealers could not consistently replicate or diagnose.
- IsolatedUnrefined hybrid powertrain (LC 500h)
Described as not suited to the car's character, with a transmission that is "something to get used to" and can feel rough during shifting; the hybrid system is seen as better suited to sedans like the LS.
+ 1 more issueShow fewer
- IsolatedWater leak into cabin
Mentioned in a general warranty complaint post (specific model not confirmed as LC).
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim or package. One owner specifically sought a hardtop coupe (over the convertible) with rear steering and a tan interior, though they noted significant dashboard reflection issues with the light-colored interior. Another commentary suggested the Touring package might be the logical choice for those prioritizing the car's comfort-oriented grand touring mission over sportiness.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Porsche 911, Porsche 718 Cayman/Boxster, Audi R8, Aston Martin V8 Vantage and BMW 8 Series.
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Overall sentiment
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment centered on the vehicle's unique character as a comfortable, reliable, and emotionally engaging grand tourer. It is consistently praised for its stunning design, exceptional build quality and solidity, plush and comfortable ride, and the glorious exhaust note from its naturally aspirated 5.0L V8 engine. The car is celebrated for offering a "special" and rare driving experience that prioritizes sensory pleasure and long-term ownership peace of mind over outright performance metrics. A recurring theme is deep affection and pride of ownership, with many describing it as an "achievable dream car." Criticisms are present but less frequent, focusing on its weight and handling dynamics not matching its sports car appearance, a transmission that can feel unrefined in the hybrid variant, and its high cost. The announcement of its discontinuation after the 2026 model year has generated significant disappointment, with owners and enthusiasts viewing it as the end of an era for Lexus's traditional design and engineering philosophy.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a uniquely comfortable and reliable grand tourer in a segment dominated by more focused sports cars. It is frequently compared to Porsche models (911, 718) and is acknowledged to be less engaging, nimble, and communicative on a twisty road or track. However, it is favored for its superior daily driving comfort, more distinctive and rare presence, and vastly perceived long-term reliability. Against German competitors like the BMW 8 Series, it trades cutting-edge performance for a more visceral V8 sound and traditional luxury build quality. Compared to the Aston Martin V8 Vantage, the trade-off is seen as brand cachet and drama versus Lexus's renowned reliability and lower cost of ownership. It is considered a more special and emotionally resonant vehicle than its corporate sibling, the RC F, despite potentially being slower in a straight line.
Recommended configurations
Specific configuration advice is limited. One owner strongly recommends the hardtop coupe over the convertible. Caution is advised regarding light-colored interiors (specifically tan) due to severe dashboard reflection in sunlight, with a suggestion that a black interior may be preferable. Rear steering is mentioned as a desirable option. Prospective buyers are advised to test drive extensively to understand the car's grand touring character versus sports car expectations.
General recommendations
Highly recommended for buyers seeking a comfortable, reliable, and emotionally engaging daily-drivable grand tourer with stunning design and a fantastic V8 soundtrack. It is ideal for those who prioritize sensory experience, build quality, and long-term ownership peace of mind over lap times or the latest tech. It is explicitly *not* recommended for driving enthusiasts seeking a sharp, communicative, and lightweight sports car; it is described as feeling "big and heavy" when pushed. Buyers should test drive thoroughly, preferably on a sunny day to evaluate interior reflections, and ensure they are comfortable with the car's grand touring dynamics. Given its discontinuation and rarity, finding a specific desired configuration may require a nationwide search.
Remarks
The LC 500's 5.0L naturally aspirated V8 is universally highlighted as a core strength, with owners expressing strong confidence in its long-term reliability based on the proven track record of Lexus/Toyota NA V8s. The car's rarity and low production numbers are seen as a positive by owners who value uniqueness, though it limits aftermarket support. The overwhelming emotional connection owners have with the car is a defining characteristic of the feedback; it is repeatedly described as "special." The sentiment regarding its 2026 discontinuation is one of loss, with the LC viewed as a last bastion of Lexus's traditional values of build quality, sensibility, and naturally aspirated engines. Analysis based on approximately 15 substantive owner discussions and commentary.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearNo year grades F. Best year: 2020Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score.
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 6 | 2 | structure |
| 2021 | 4 | 0 | exterior lighting |
| 2020 | 1 | 0 | engine |
| 2018 | 7 | 0 | unknown or other |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices2 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2024 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 24V124000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Mirai, Lexus LS500, LS500H, 2023-2024 Lexus ES250, ES300H, ES350, 2024 Lexus LC500, and LC500H vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Due to incorrect programming of the parking-assist electronic control unit (ECU) software, the rearview camera image may not immediately display within a couple of seconds after the shifter is placed into reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2024 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 25V744000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru Solterra vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may cause the rearview camera to freeze or display a blank screen when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Specifications
500 V8
5.0L 8-cylinder · 477 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2020–2026