Exclusive: Lexus LC now available to pre-book in India, to be launched in Q4 2019
The Lexus LC has been confirmed to be launched in India. Sources have told IAB that pre-bookings have commenced for an amount of INR 25 lakh and that the launch will take place between October and December this year, most likely in October. Customers pre-booking their Lexus LC now will get their unit delivered in about 20 days from launch, while those ordering after the launch will have to wait for about two months.
The Lexus LC is basically the production version of the Lexus LF-FC concept. It is based on the new GA-L platform which underpins even the Lexus LS. Internationally, it is available in two variants, namely LC 500 (petrol) and LC 500h (petrol-electric hybrid). The latter will be launched in the Indian market since Lexus has a preference for hybrid models in India and all its models excluding the LX are hybrids. Speaking of which, Lexus India portfolio currently comprises two sedans - ES (300h) and LS (500h), and three SUVs - the NX (300h), RX (450h) and LX (570).
The Lexus LC 500h's powertrain combines the 8GR-FXS 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine (299 PS/356 Nm) with the 2NM electric motor (180 PS/300 Nm). The net power of the hybrid system is 359 PS. The powertrain works with a Multistage hybrid transmission, which, theoretically, is a 10-speed unit like in the LC500. Multistage hybrid transmission is a combination of a 4-speed automatic transmission with an eCVT for the responsiveness of a 10-speed automatic transmission. It transmits power to the rear wheels. A 0-100 km/h sprint takes 4.7 seconds and the top speed is electronically restricted to 250 km/h.
The Lexus LC 500h measures 4,770 mm in length, 1,920 mm in width, and 1,345 mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 2,870 mm and a ground clearance of 140 mm. Its standard equipment comprises a 10.3-inch infotainment system display, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, Lexus LFA-inspired 8-inch driver information display, a colour head-up display, 915-watt, 13-speaker Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound audio system and every other bit you can expect a grand tourer to have.
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The LC is undoubtedly the most stellar offering produced by Lexus since the LFA supercar. Our sources tell us that its price will fall in the range of INR 2-2.5 crore (ex-showroom), and at this price point, it will rival the likes of the Maserati GranTurismo and the BMW M8 Coupe. The latter will not be a direct threat to the LC considering it is more of driver's enthusiast model than a style statement, with a completely different level of performance.
