After unveiling a gearhead special called the LC 500 at the Detroit Motor Show, Lexus announced an all-new machine for the Geneva Motor Show 2016. It is not an all-new car, but rather a hybrid version of the LC 500.They simply had to do it. Lexus would not be a Lexus if they left the fantastically looking LC 500 just as it is. We are not angry, though. The LC 500h is a bit tamer beast with some other things in mind rather than putting a burnout show in front of a pub.
As a sensible cruiser, the LC 500h is as good as any Aston you may imagine. Low stance, sleek profile and aggressive face make it superior on the road, but the lettering on the side “Multi Stage Hybrid” promises something new and apparently unseen before. Working in conjunction with the 3.5L V6 petrol engine is a 60hp electric motor. What is even more surprising is that the transmission inside is actually a four-speed rig. Considering that many manufacturers of today install nine-speed automatic transmissions, seeing Lexus opting for “so nineties” four-speed automatic is a bit strange to say the least. Nevertheless, with combined output of 354hp and more than 300 torques, the LC 500h is a fairly capable 2+2 Coupe which consumes much less petrol than any other similarly powerful petrol car.
For now, we do not have a clue about the performance, or official fuel consumption figures, but we do know that 110 lbs worth of lithium-ion batteries sits at the back of a car giving all the juice to the small electric engine. Unfortunately, we are not certain what Multi Stage Hybrid really means, but Lexus was quick to say that it provides enhanced driving pleasure, more performance, and greater efficiency. This is an all new generation of hybrid systems and it will hit every new car in the Lexus line-up.
