By Otsile Kadiege

Lexus has added a new V6 engine to its alluring LC 500 coupe range. Dubbed the LC 500h, the new engine features the automaker’s self-charging, Multi Stage Hybrid System. The spruced up model also benefits from improved comfort, ride and handling as well as smartphone integration – Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Performance

At the heart of the LC 500h is a 3.5-litre V6 engine developing 220kW and 350Nm. Lexus’ new Multi Stage Hybrid System (a system which uses a multi stage shift device to amplify engine and electric motor output in four stages, making use of the full range of engine speeds) adds an additional 44kW making the total system output 264kW.

Lexus increased maximum engine speed from 6,000 to 6,600rpm, while the 0-100 km/h acceleration time remains at five seconds with a top speed of 250 km/h. 

Exterior and interior colour options

The Lexus LC 500h coupe is available in 10 colours, namely; White Nova, Sonic Titanium, Graphite Black, Sonic Chrome, Sonic Iridium, Solar Storm Red, Sonic Copper, Terrane Khaki, Naples Yellow and Poseidon Blue. Inside the cabin, there are three options to select from and these include Black, Dark Rose and Ochre.

New equipment and convenience features

The LC 500h comes standard with a large 12.3-inch infotainment display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Convenience features that have been adopted to the vehicle include Head Up Display, seat lumbar support, tyre inflation pressure warning, EMV & navigation system, Panoramic View Monitor and Driver + Passenger seat heaters.

Safety and assistance systems

The model comes standard with the Lexus Safety System+ which comprises a package of active safety features that include Pre-Collision System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane-Keep Assist with Lane Departure Alert and Automatic High Beam.

Pricing and warranty

LC 500h coupe – R2,542,800

The LC 500h coupe comes with a 7-years/105 000km warranty and full maintenance plan. The vehicle service intervals are pegged at every 15 000km, alternatively once a year. The LC 500h coupe furthermore comes with an additional 8-years/195 000 km hybrid battery warranty.