l Extraordinary Rides

The LC500 is a top model in the Lexus lineup, featuring the option of a V8 engine or a hybrid version called the 500h.

(C.A. Haire/Contributor)

Extraordinary Rides

Lexus LC500h Hybrid is a load of fun

By C.A. Haire

The LC500 is a top model in the Lexus lineup. It’s so exclusive, only 2,000 are imported from Japan each year.

The more common engine is a potent 5.0-liter V8 cranking 471 horsepower, reaching 60 mph in brisk 4.4 seconds.

Fuel economy is listed at 15/25 mpg with 19 average. This car is the hybrid version, called the 500h. Horsepower drops to 354, and 0-60 time is 5.8 seconds. The claimed advantage is improved fuel economy, at 26/34 mpg with 29 average.

This unit was loaded with plenty of options. A carbon fiber roof, floor panels and rear wing adds $3,275. How about $3,600 for “Alcantara-Manhattanhenge” leather? Add sport seats, audio and other items, we are up to a tidy $115,825.

Despite the large 21-inch wheels, and run-flat tires, the ride and sport seats are comfortable on long trips. The cornering ability on tight corners is excellent, with strong brakes to stop in a hurry. While acceleration is not as brisk as the V8 version, most drivers will find it adequate. They will appreciate the overall superb build quality that comes from the Japanese factory, too, but that is what we are paying for.

This is a true sports car, so it has practical limitations. The rear seats are tiny, just enough room for the family pet or groceries. The trunk is also small, at 5 cubic feet. The micro sun visors are not effective at blocking out sun’s rays. But who cares when you are having fun?

In a week of driving, we put about 600 miles on the clock. Real-world fuel economy was 25 mpg average, with best of 31 on highway trips. While this is less than the 25/34 claimed, it’s still better than the 19/24 we observed in the V8 car we had earlier. But the latter nonhybrid car is $6,000 cheaper to purchase, and that can buy a lot of gas. Take your pick.

The LC500 features an interior valued at $3,600. (C.A. Haire/Contributor)