Lexus LC to Get Convertible, Hybrid and High Performance Variants
It appears the Lexus LC 500 that debuted at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show is just the beginning for the new nameplate.
As previous rumors suggest, Lexus is also working on a convertible variant of the LC 500, as well as a high-performance LC F and a hybrid model. In December 2014, the Japanese automaker filed trademarks for LC 500 and LC 500h, further hinting that a hybrid model would eventually join the lineup once the LC 500 debuted. Past speculation pointed at the hybrid model having even more performance than the LC 500’s 467 horsepower.
According to a senior executive at Lexus in an interview with The Detroit Bureau, “a number of additional variants” are in the works for the Lexus LC, all of which have been approved by Toyota President Akio Toyoda.
SEE ALSO: 2018 Lexus LC 500 is a Spicy 467 HP Flagship Coupe
A Lexus LC F convertible is a natural extension to the coupe offering, and considering how much focus Lexus has been placing on its F models, an LC F is almost a guarantee. Rumors suggest that Lexus is looking at a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine for the high-performance LC F, a model that could offer over 600 hp. For now, the company is focused on cutting its weight, targeting around 4,100 pounds for the coupe. A member of the development team however has said that it will more likely be around 4,200 lbs.
[Source: The Detroit Bureau]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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