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2021 Lexus LC: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2021 Lexus LC is the arrival of the first LC 500 Convertible. It is not a full redesign, but the lineup also receives meaningful suspension, transmission, hybrid, and infotainment updates.
About the 2021 Lexus LC
1st generation (2018-2025), fourth model year; major lineup expansion year with the first convertible and a substantial mechanical refinement pass rather than a redesign.
Lexus positions the LC as its flagship two-door: a dramatic, hand-crafted luxury car built to feel special every time you see it, hear it, and drive it. The focus is not track-day aggression; it is elegant long-distance performance, rich materials, and a strong sense of occasion. That makes the LC stand out against rivals by leaning harder into design, cabin craftsmanship, and emotional appeal than pure lap-time performance.
The 2021 LC is a luxury performance car focused on dramatic design, a hand-finished cabin, and long-distance comfort. The LC 500 pairs a 471-hp V8 with a 10-speed automatic and comes as a coupe or convertible, while the LC 500h coupe uses a 354-hp hybrid V6 system. Both have a 10.3-inch navigation display, heated and ventilated front seats, and a safety suite with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
What changed, by category
Structural
The first LC 500 Convertible joins the lineup. The coupe models receive lighter suspension components, retuned damping, and Active Cornering Assist to reduce weight and sharpen handling.
Powertrain
The LC 500 gets revised programming for its 10-speed automatic transmission, while the LC 500h receives updated hybrid shift timing. The V8 and hybrid V6 powertrains otherwise continue.
Tech
Android Auto becomes standard across the lineup, joining Apple CarPlay on the 10.3-inch infotainment display.
Styling
The LC 500h’s rear spoiler changes from standard equipment to optional equipment.
2021 Lexus LC specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 5.0 Liter | V6, Hybrid, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 10-Spd Sport w/Direct Shift | Automatic, ECVT & 4-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Hybrid |
| MPG City | 15–16 mpg | 26 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 25 mpg | 34 mpg |
| Horsepower | 471 hp | |
| Torque | 398 lb-ft | 257 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 3.4–5.4 cu-ft | 4.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 28–32.5 in | 32.5 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Front & Rear Parking Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Power Retractable Soft Top | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Head-Up Display | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2021 Lexus LC?
The biggest change is the first LC 500 Convertible, which expands the range beyond the existing coupes. It uses the LC 500’s 471-hp 5.0-liter V8 and 10-speed automatic transmission.
Is the 2021 Lexus LC a full redesign?
No. The 2021 LC remains part of the first generation, but it receives a substantial update with a new convertible body style, lighter suspension parts, revised suspension tuning, and updated shift programming.
What changed on the 2021 Lexus LC coupe?
The 2021 LC coupe gets lighter suspension components, retuned damping, and Active Cornering Assist, which can gently brake an inside wheel to help the car turn through a corner. The V8 model also has revised 10-speed automatic shift logic, while the hybrid receives updated shift timing.
Does the 2021 Lexus LC have Android Auto?
Yes. Android Auto is standard across the 2021 LC lineup, joining Apple CarPlay on the 10.3-inch infotainment and navigation display.
What is the difference between the 2021 LC 500 and LC 500h?
The 2021 LC 500 uses a 471-hp 5.0-liter V8 and comes as a coupe or convertible. The LC 500h is a coupe with a 354-hp hybrid V6 system designed to combine electric response with the LC’s grand-touring character.
2021 Lexus LC Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 Lexus LC.
4.6
2021 Lexus LC
(109 reviews)
“A beautiful automobile marred by flaws in the user interface and applications that do not work properly or at all.”
“Lexus is the most reliable and dependable vehicle you will ever own. The LC 500 convertible is a vehicle I am proud to own.”
Sources
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2021 Lexus Lc Luxury Driving Evolved
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2021 Lexus Lc 500 Convertible Makes Global Debut At 2019 Los Angeles International Auto Show
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2020 Lexus Lc Flagship Coupe Refined
- pressroom.lexus.com — Whats New 2022 Lc 500 500H
- lexus.com — Models / 2021 / MY21 Lexus LC Brochure