NZ date set for Lexus LC 500 launch

Lexus has announced its New Zealand launch of the LC 500 coupe, with the vehicle to hit domestic dealerships from mid-July. The new LC 500 contains a 5.0-litre V8 engine, which generates 351kW of power and 540Nm of torque, and is matched to Lexus’ first direct shift 10-speed close ratio automatic transmission. 0-100km/hr takes 4.7 seconds. The 500h is powered by a 264kW 3.5-litre V6 hybrid engine containing a lithium-ion battery and two electric motors paired with a new multi-stage hybrid transmission. Engineers have combined a CVT gearbox with a conventional four-speed automatic to emulate a 10-speed automatic transmission. Reaching 0-100km/hr is a fraction slower than the V8 500, at ‘under five seconds’, according to Lexus. An ‘EV-only mode’ has been included, where the driver can switch off the petrol engine at speeds up to 140km/h, although there’s been no confirmation of driving range. Pricing will begin at $215,000 for the glass-roof model in both the V8 and hybrid powertrain, and $220,000 for the carbon-fibre roof option, which contains four-wheel steering and variable gear-ratio steering. Ten vehicles have already been pre-ordered in New Zealand. In Japan, buyers face a three-year waiting list due to high demand.