“Excellent vehicle overall. Braking system is my only complaint, its poor for the cost of the vehicle.”
2018 Lexus LC: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2018 Lexus LC is an all-new flagship coupe and the model’s first year in the U.S. Its debut on Lexus’s new rear-wheel-drive GA-L platform makes this a full new-generation launch, not a light update.
About the 2018 Lexus LC
1st generation LC coupe, first model year / U.S. launch year.
Lexus positions the LC as its flagship luxury performance coupe: a dramatic, hand-crafted car meant to feel special every time you see it, hear it, and drive it. Compared with rivals, the LC leans heavily on design, cabin craftsmanship, ride comfort, and emotional appeal rather than raw lap-time obsession. The model’s core promise is long-distance comfort and premium finishes paired with serious performance, with either a V8 soundtrack or a high-tech hybrid setup.
The LC 500 is the more theatrical version, pairing a 471-hp V8 with a 10-speed automatic, while the LC 500h uses a 354-hp V6-based hybrid system for better fuel economy and a more technical driving feel. Both are 2+2 coupes with adaptive suspension, a 10.3-inch navigation display, heated and ventilated front seats, a glass roof, and a standard driver-assistance suite.
What changed, by category
Structural
The LC debuts on Lexus’s new GA-L rear-wheel-drive platform as a flagship 2+2 coupe.
Styling
The new model launches with concept-car-inspired exterior design and a hand-crafted cabin.
Powertrain
The launch lineup consists of the LC 500 with a 471-hp 5.0-liter V8 and 10-speed automatic, plus the LC 500h with a 354-hp V6-based Multi Stage Hybrid system.
Safety
Lexus Safety System+ is standard on both versions, bringing forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping help, and automatic high beams.
Tech
Both versions have adaptive suspension, a 10.3-inch navigation display with a touchpad controller, heated and ventilated power front seats, and a glass roof.
2018 Lexus LC specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 5.0 Liter | V6, Hybrid, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 10-Spd | Automatic, (2) ECVT & 4-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Hybrid |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 26 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 26 mpg | 35 mpg |
| Horsepower | 471 hp | |
| Torque | 398 lb-ft | 257 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 5.4 cu-ft | 4.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 22.5 in | 22.5 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Head-Up Display | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
Is 2018 the first model year for the Lexus LC?
Yes. The 2018 Lexus LC is the coupe’s first U.S. model year and the beginning of its first generation.
What is the main difference between the 2018 LC 500 and LC 500h?
The powertrain is the main difference. The LC 500 has a 471-hp 5.0-liter V8 and a 10-speed automatic, while the LC 500h has a 354-hp V6-based hybrid system designed to deliver better fuel economy.
Does the 2018 Lexus LC have standard driver-assistance features?
Yes. Every 2018 LC has forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping help, and automatic high beams through the standard Lexus Safety System+ suite.
What comfort and cabin features are standard on the 2018 Lexus LC?
Every 2018 LC has a 10.3-inch navigation display, heated and ventilated power front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a glass roof with a power sunshade.
Which 2018 Lexus LC suits a driver who wants the V8 experience?
The 2018 LC 500 is the V8 model. Its naturally aspirated 5.0-liter engine makes 471 hp and works with a 10-speed automatic and an active sport exhaust, while the LC 500h uses a V6-based hybrid system.
2018 Lexus LC Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Lexus LC.
4.4
2018 Lexus LC
(73 reviews)
“You will not be invisible in the LC500. I have owned 2 Ferraris, 4 Porsches, 6 Jaguars, 4 BMWs, and many other sports cars. But this car turns heads like no other. It has a perfect balance of styling, performance, and build quality that not many cars can equal and none at this price. Driving it briskly brings a smile to your face.”
“The vehicle is style all the way; it makes you feel good to drive it; innovative but classy and conservative all in one.”