LEXUS: Sleek LC Coupe updated for 2020

The Lexus LC Coupe loses weight, gains tech and receives suspension tweaks, a reconfigured gearbox and new styling options.

Lexus has given its flagship LC sports car a raft of updates for its 2020 model year, making it lighter and more comfortable than before. It has also upgraded the gearbox and infotainment system, as well as introducing new colours and alloy wheels.

The suspension has received the most comprehensive overhaul, with new parts contributing to the LC’s weight reduction of 10kg. This has been achieved through the use of aluminium lower arms, hollowed-out anti-roll bars and a new high-strength material for the coil springs. Opt for the 21-inch alloy wheels, and they’re lighter, too.

The updated suspension has also been tweaked to deliver a more comfortable ride, while the rear anti-roll bar’s rigidity was increased to improve turn-in. Cornering stability has been improved with the addition of a new ‘active cornering assist’ function, which uses the brakes on the inner wheel of a turn to keep the front end from washing out.

Transmission upgrades include updated software in the V8 model that holds on to gears a little longer under everyday acceleration rather than shifting regularly, while the hybrid’s system is now more likely to shift to second than third out of a tight bend to improve acceleration.

On the outside, a new Blazing Carnelian colour is available, while the Terrane Khaki (previously offered exclusively on the LC Limited Edition) can now be chosen across the range. Inside, a new Flare Red leather package replaces Dark Rose, while a new Manhattan Orange Alcantara option has been added.

More good news is that the infotainment system finally gets Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard.

Engine choices on the Lexus LC remain unchanged, with the LC 500 housing a 5.0-litre V8 engine making 458hp, while the LC 500h hybrid has a 3.5-litre V6 and an electric motor combination making 349hp.

Leasing rates for the 2020 Lexus LC Coupe will be known at the beginning of May, with the first customer deliveries due in July.