Lexus launches LC500 Convertible at RM1.35mil


PETALING JAYA: Lexus Malaysia has officially introduced a new stablemate for the LC500 Coupe with a Convertible variant for the Malaysian market.

“The new LC500 Convertible brings with it specific attributes that can only be associated with open-top driving,” said Lexus Malaysia deputy chairman Akio Takeyama.

“Armed with dynamic performance and handling as well as a sexy silhouette, the new model not only elevates the sensorial experience for the driver but also allows them to feel more closely connected to the car, the road and their surroundings,” he added.

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Deliveries for the LC500 has been scheduled to begin in early February 2021 and has been priced on-the-road with sales and service tax but without insurance at RM1.35mil.

This is accompanied by a five-year unlimited mileage warranty and five-year free service (up to 100,000km whichever comes first).

The LC500 Convertible is offered in 11 colour options namely White Nova Glass Flake, Deep Blue Mica, Sonic Silver, Terrane Khaki Mica Metallic, Naples Yellow Contrast Layering, Blazing Carnelian Contrast Layering, Radiant Red Contrast Layering, Black, Graphite Black Glass Flake, Dark Gray Mica and Sonic Titanium with roof coloured options of black and beige.

For interior colours, the cabin can be had in Flare Red, Black or Ocher.

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Drawing inspiration from the LC-LF concept car, the LC500 comes fitted with a pair of tri-beam LED projector headlights that flank the signature Spindle Grille

The rear also features LEDs for its light clusters and its third brake light that's been integrated into the edge of the boot lid.

For "bling", the LC500 rolls on 21-inch lightweight forged alloys that's been given a black two-tone polished finish.

Being a convertible, Lexus has gone to great lengths to ensure the integrity of its structural rigidity has been maintained with the employment of structural bracing, reinforcement of welding points and the use of body adhesive joints.

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The Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) is said to have been optimally tuned and provides up to 650 different levels of damping force.

This convertible uses a 5.0-litre (4,969cc) naturally aspirated 2UR-GSE V8 engine with port and direct injection to produce 470hp at 7,100rpm and 540Nm of torque at 4,800rpm.

Power for the rear wheels is managed by a 10-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission with Artificial Intelligence Shift Control (AISC).

The AISC is said to help predict a driver's intention and selects the appropriate gear for the best driving experience.

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Despite weighing 90kg more than its coupe stablemate, sprinting from 0 to 100kph takes just 4.9 (+0.5) seconds and can reach an electronically-limited top speed of 270kph.

The powered roof tucks itself away into the 149-litre boot in 15 seconds (closes in 16 seconds) and can be operated up to 50kph.

The roof's four-layered material uses three layers of fabric with a final insulating material to dampen out noise, vibrations and harshness.

A tonneau cover has also been incorporated to cover the roof storage space - helping to neaten the LC500's appearance when the roof is down.

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Inside, the 2+2 driver-centric cabin features eight-way powered sports seats that have been wrapped in semi-aniline leather.

The front seats can be heated during cold mornings or ventilated during a hot day.

To further boost ergonomics, a Takumi-designed gear knob has been included.

While an 8.0-inch Digital Combination Meter stares back at the driver who incidentally has a Heads-up Display for added safety and convenience.

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Entertainment comes from a large 10.3-inch high-resolution split-screen multimedia display that provides access to audio and climate controls.

Also included are a voice-activated navigation system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Android Screen Mirroring.

Sound emanates from a 13-speaker Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound System.

With the brand's "Omotenashi" (Japanese hospitality that brings together integrity, commitment and entertainment), the sound system will automatically adjust the acoustics based on the ambient sounds.

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In short, a rich audio experience can be expected regardless of whether the roof is up or down.

The combination of a unique beltline and rear moulding helps to reduce wind noise from entering the cabin.

The effect is further enhanced by a transparent wind deflector, located behind the rear seats, which help to reduce wind buffetting up to 60kph.

For safety, the LC500 comes equipped with six airbags as well as the Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+) which is a suite of advanced safety systems as standard.

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This includes Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert with Lane Keep Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Automatic High Beam and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.

Active roll bars are also included which will swiftly deploy when a roll-over is detected and until then, they remain hidden from sight.

“The arrival of the new LC500 Convertible demonstrates Lexus Malaysia’s commitment in delivering the very best in performance, luxury and exclusivity, which discerning drivers crave for in today’s automotive market,” said Lexus Malaysia president Ravindran K.

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