The Lexus LC is still an utterly gorgeous machine despite looking virtually identical to the model we first saw in 2018. That's the benefit of a groundbreaking design that retains many of the styling cues previewed by a wild concept, but everything needs a refresh now and then. The LC seems to get some styling changes on an almost monthly basis, thanks to the fact that its manufacturer doesn't seem to think that there is such a thing as too many special editions. The car is now starting to reach the end of its life, but before that happens, the 2022 LC 500 model has been lightly refreshed, keeping it fresh enough for another year of special models and unusual collaborations.
Lexus has tried to improve athleticism through the enhancement of the grand tourer's suspension setup in both coupe and convertible forms, albeit with specific tuning for the convertible. "From its dampers and coils to its bushings and the unique Yamaha performance damper placed transversely at the rear, the convertible's specially designed components are designed to help ensure comfortable, yet sharp, road-going performance," says Lexus, while the coupe's suspension focuses on linear steering response and steering effectiveness when cornering under high G forces.
The coupe gets an additional Sport Package for added performance, including a Torsen limited-slip differential, Yamaha performance dampers, high-performance brake pads, and Alcantara seats. But new for 2022 is a glass roof and 21-inch forged alloy wheels. You can still get last year's carbon fiber roof, but it will be an option under a new category called LC Bespoke Build.
Available for the coupe and hybrid, Bespoke Build is a new customization program for LC buyers. All LC Bespoke Builds are based on the Sport Package, but buyers can tailor their style with exterior design items like wheels, spoilers, and roof finishes, while the interior can be fully customized from an array of bespoke finishes. An all-new Manhattanhenge interior color is exclusive to Bespoke Build. Features like the carbon fiber air wing spoiler and 21-inch forged alloy wheels with Black finish were previously reserved for the Inspiration Series but can now be added to a regular LC.
LC Bespoke Build models will receive a unique interior badge and a certificate of authenticity printed on Japanese washi paper. The certificate will be signed by Yasushi Muto and Vinay Shabani, Lexus' LC chief engineer and VP of marketing.
The rest of the car remains largely the same for the new model year, but there are some changes in terms of color options. The soft top is offered in only Black or Sand, but the paint palette has been revised too and includes Ultra White (a $500 option), Atomic Silver, Smoky Granite Mica, Caviar, Nightfall Mica, and Nori Green Pearl. Spend $595 and you can have Infrared, Flare Yellow, or Cadmium Orange. As always, the color you choose for the body will dictate which of the three interior colors - Black, Circuit Red, and Toasted Caramel - you can have for the cabin.
Pricing for the 2022 LC 500 starts at $93,050 for the LC500 coupe and $99,050 for the LC500h hybrid. The convertible starts at $101,100 excluding a $1,075 delivery, processing, and handling fee. That means that the base MSRP has stayed the same while the delivery fee has risen by 50 bucks. Unfortunately, there's still no word on the long-rumored LC F.