Lexus has a reputation for developing ultra-serene and reliable luxury cars. If only we could all be associated with such praise. But in Lexus’ never-ending pursuit of perfection it has decided to expand its reputation by delivering a sharply designed sports coupe that not only looks the part but is more than capable of delivering in terms of power and performance.

The backdrop, as it so often is, was last month’s Detroit Auto Show. This is where Lexus decided to unveil its breathtaking 2017 LC 500. Keen-eyed Lexus enthusiasts will immediately recognize the source of the LC 500’s inspiration: the 2012 LF-LC concept. Underpinning the taut styling is a new global architecture that will also be utilized in future cars such as the popular LS sedan.

Style isn’t the only thing the LC 500 has going for it, although we suspect it could get pretty far on looks alone. Thankfully, the LC 500 packs a punch under the hood by way of a 467-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 engine that is said to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in less than 4.5 seconds. If this sounds familiar you are once again correct; it’s the same engine found in the RC F and GS F performance models. Mated to the engine is a ten-speed transmission.

There is talk of additional powertrains being offered down the road but Lexus has yet to confirm anything. However, it’s safe to assume a selection of even more powerful, grin-inducing turbocharged options at some point.

If you needed additional convincing that Lexus is determined to knock it out of the park with the LC 500 all it takes is one look at its internal design. Backing up the LC 500’s good looks and powerful engine is an all-new body structure that includes carbon fiber reinforced plastic, aluminum, and high-strength steel. Remarkably, the LC 500’s torsional rigidity is said to be better than the all-carbon fiber LF A supercar.

Just as a gourmet meal is elevated by a fine wine, so too is a gourmet platform complimented by a fine suspension and tire combination. In the case of the LC 500 the former is comprised of nearly all aluminum while the latter runs on Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires that promise new levels of lateral grip.

In terms of on-board technology, the 2017 LC 500 will debut the 2017 Lexus Multimedia package that will feature updated, faster, and more flexible software. The LC 500 will also boast Lexus’ Safety System +, which integrates several of Lexus's active safety technologies:

  • an All-speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (All-speed DRCC) that relieves stop-and-go traffic stress
  • the Pre-Collision System (PCS) helps prevent and mitigate collisions
  • Lane Keep Assist (LKA) helps prevent vehicles from departing from their lanes
  • Automatic High Beam (AHB) that helps ensure optimal forward visibility during nighttime driving

The arrival of the 2017 Lexus LC 500 heralds the brand's journey into a new era—one that we at 3Birds Template cannot wait to experience with you. 

Image: Lexus