2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible Review: The Ultimate Lexus Flagship?

The 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible may just be the most alluring vehicle in the brand’s lineup. Take the already striking coupe, chop the roof off, and retain all of the mechanical goodness and you get one of the most eye-catching cars on the road. The concept car-like design language works quite well even without a roof and there aren’t many odd angles even with that controversial spindle grille and swooshy head- and taillight clusters.

Think of the 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible as a 2+2. Although it has belts for four, there’s very little room in the rear for anyone but a child. Even then, you wouldn’t t put a human of any size back there for more than a quick lunch run. It’s best to treat the rear seats as an extension to the tiny trunk. What you will find in the LC 500 is impeccable build quality. Nearly everything you touch is soft or padded; every control operates with a level of tactility you expect out of a six-figure luxury car. Unfortunately, the LC still has the old infotainment system, which is finicky to use because of the inconsistent touchpad responses. You can also get the fantastic Mark Levinson audio system on the convertible.

Despite its looks, the LC lineup is not about all-out performance. It’s more of a grand tourer than a raw sports car. The four-layer soft top, which stows and opens in 15 to 16 seconds, provides excellent levels of sound insulation. Power comes from a 5.0-liter V8 with 471 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque. The only transmission available is a 10-speed automatic. EPA fuel economy ratings are 15/25/18 mpg city/highway/combined. A 354-hp  hybrid powertrain is also available; however, you must get the coupe because the convertible is only available with the V8. Go fast goodies include a standard adaptive suspension and a limited-slip differential, the latter of which is a must-have option. The standard active exhaust system gives you fantastic sounds to go with the car’s brisk acceleration as the engine revs to redline. Despite driving like a big grand tourer, the LC possesses excellent handling and is happy to carve up corners without sacrificing ride comfort. Connected, accurate steering further adds to the car’s willingness to carve up your favorite winding road.

Even though the 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible starts at well over $100,000, it still manages to top out fully loaded under $120,000. Equip a competing European-branded competitor and you’re likely going to see it crest past $150,000 or higher. This means the LC Convertible is the ultimate irrational purchase for the rational buyer. The big bonus? Nothing else looks like it thanks to its incredibly stylish looks and it’s got two personalities. If you’re down to just cruise and chill, the Lexus LC is up for that. Want to carve up your favorite mountain road enthusiastically? It’ll do that just as adeptly, too, and it won’t crush your kidneys in the process because of balanced the suspension is.

To put it simply, the 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible is an easy car to live with. As long as you’re able to make it work for your life, this is a great all-around convertible complete with an awesome soundtrack, a great interior, and incredible looks.

0 to 60 mph: 4.5 seconds
60 to 0: … ft
Handling: A-
Ride: A
Cabin Noise: A-; 72 dB
Fuel Economy: …