2022 Lexus LC Convertible Review: The Right-Brained Drop-Top

The 2022 Lexus LC Convertible is a drop-top for right-brained individuals. It's said that this side of the brain focuses on aspects like intuition, imagination, and emotions. Well, if any car appeals to the emotions at the expense of some logic, it's this one. The thirsty, 471-horsepower, 5.0-liter naturally-aspirated V8 can't compete with the turbocharged units in the Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet or BMW 8 Series Convertible, but the LC's engine is more evocative by some distance. The Lexus also has striking styling, a sumptuous cabin finished in the finest materials, and eschews fast lap times for a buttery smooth ride. The more sensible left side of the brain tells us that the 911 is faster, more dynamically talented, and more fuel-efficient - and it would be right. Both it and the 8 Series also have the option of a secure all-wheel-drive system. But the way the rear-wheel-drive Lexus panders to the senses is second to none. It's an object of desire first, and everything else follows. For that reason, it's hard not to love.

What's the Price of the 2022 Lexus LC Convertible?

The 2022 Lexus LC 500 Convertible's price starts at $102,275, including the destination charge. At $116,655, the LC 500 Convertible Inspiration Series is quite a bit pricier than some other similar convertibles for sale in the USA. The base Lexus LC Convertible will cost well over $110,000 with a few options added. By comparison, the BMW 840i xDrive Convertible - as fast as the Lexus but more efficient - starts at a $97,300 MSRP. There is also a rear-wheel-drive 840i with pricing for this model starting at $94,400.

2022 LC Convertible Exterior

Dimensions

2022 LC Convertible Performance

Handling and Driving Impressions

Lexus and luxury may as well be synonyms, so closely associated is the marque with comfort and effortlessly shutting out the annoyances of the outside world during every commute. Most of the time, the LC Convertible supports this sterling reputation. Despite the large wheels, the Lexus soaks up bumps and rough patches of tarmac with aplomb, with no jostling of driver or passenger to detract from the premium experience. When the layered fabric roof is up, it does a remarkable job of isolating occupants from road noise. When it's down, it's possible to speak to your co-pilot at over 60 mph without shouting.

As a GT, then, the LC Convertible is quite excellent. But what about as a sports car? Here, the weight of the Lexus and some shudder visible via the rearview mirror are reminders that it isn't as athletic or rigid as a 911. Despite this, the steering's weighting is spot-on and, as long as the bends aren't too acute and the speeds illegally high, the LC is enjoyable to drive. Extending the V8 on open stretches of road is hugely fun, but try to keep your eye off the fuel gauge when doing so.

A Torsen limited-slip rear differential and Yamaha rear performance dampers are available optionally, and although these do make for a more dynamic car, we don't believe the LC Convertible needs them.

2022 LC Convertible Interior

2022 LC Convertible Trunk and Cargo Space

Warranty

Verdict: Is the 2022 Lexus LC Convertible A Good car?

For the right kind of buyer, the Lexus LC Convertible is a wonderful car. Let's say, for instance, that the driver of an LS sedan is looking for something more exciting now that the kids have left the nest. In this case, the LC Convertible will be an absolute joy with its charismatic V8, tidy handling, and ravishing styling. The more hardcore enthusiast will prefer the razor-sharp responses of a 911, but not everyone wants to go tearing across a mountain pass at every opportunity. The LC Convertible delivers a measured amount of entertainment but wrapped in the classy veneer that is expected of a Lexus. Its engine is now one of the last of a dying breed without either forced induction or electrification, which is almost reason enough alone to buy the car. We lament the high price and the fussy infotainment system, but the LC Convertible remains a stellar drop-top. So long as you think of the LC as a grand tourer in the same vein as an Aston Martin DB11 rather than a sports car like the 911, you'll be in for a treat.

What Lexus LC Convertible Model Should I Buy?

Getting hold of the Inspiration Series model won't be easy so we'll start with the normal LC 500 Convertible as a base. To this model, we'd add Infrared paint at $595, the Toasted Caramel interior, and the 13-speaker Mark Levinson sound system at $1,220. That would bring the total to just over $104,000. We'd be tempted by the Touring Package's semi-aniline leather, upper body heating, 21-inch wheels, and other extras, but it's priced at a considerable $7,940.

The Inspiration Series adds 21-inch 3D machined wheels, black and Dark Rose trim elements, a Dark Rose soft-top, serialized badging as a 1-of-150 limited edition, and a few bits of extra kit like a head-up display and the 13-speaker Mark Levinson sound system.

2022 Lexus LC Convertible Comparisons

2022 Lexus LC Convertible vs Lexus RC

At less than half the price of the LC Convertible, the RC Coupe is far more affordable than its bigger brother. Because of the massive price differential, we'll ignore the cheaper RC models entirely for the sake of this comparison. At the top of the range, the RC 350 F Sport begins at just over $50,000 and comes with a 311-hp V6. It's 1.2 seconds slower than the LC 500 Convertible to 60 mph and, of course, it doesn't have the novelty of top-down driving. The RC 350 F Sport is a little sportier to drive and has a comfortable cabin, but the LC feels a lot more special with its superlative quality and full list of features. Both cars have a minuscule back seat but the RC's trunk is far more practical. The RC is not a bad way to save $50,000 but the LC is the more desirable car here.

2022 Lexus LC Convertible vs BMW 8 Series Convertible

BMW has taken a much more modern approach to the 8 Series Convertible. It has a smaller turbocharged engine that provides comparable performance to the LC's V8 in xDrive guise, yet is a lot more economical. The 8 Series also starts off at a cheaper price, is a more agile and responsive car overall, and has superior integration of the latest technologies in its cabin. Despite all of this, the LC feels more unique. The 8 Series is a bit more anonymous and clinical than we expect a high-end drop-top to be, whereas the Lexus draws you in with its seductive design, beautifully tailored interior, and sonorous V8. It also promises to be more dependable than the German in the long run. The head says that the BMW is the superior car here but the heart aches for the Lexus.