2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible Global Debut in Los Angeles

The roof can be opened or closed at speeds up to 31 mph while an animated display on the instrumentation panel shows the top’s progress.

While it was introduced at the Los Angeles International Motor Show during fall rains, the future looks sunny for the 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible. Going on sale next summer, the convertible top opens in ~15 seconds and the 471-horsepower 5-liter V8 engine is mated to a Direct-Shift 10-speed automatic transmission that will provide brisk acceleration. Given the $~94,000 t0 ~$100,000, it’s going to take a lot of fast bucks to catch one.

The LC Convertible’s four-layer soft top design comprises a folding mechanism that includes a tonneau cover for when it is stored. This allowed engineers to focus on accentuating the lines of the convertible without “significant intrusions” into the trunk and cabin space from a heavier, bulkier hard top.

Making a virtue of mechanical necessity, the trunk that is vertically enlarged, and the spoiler broadened to emphasize the low, wide stance of the car. The center brake light is now integrated into the trunk lid, unlike the coupe where it rests higher on the top of the rear windshield.

Lexus says the roof material was selected and manufactured to ensure optimal tension, to minimize wrinkling and improve sound insulation. The roof can be opened or closed at speeds up to 31 mph while an animated display on the instrumentation panel shows the top’s progress. Elapsed time is ~15 seconds to open and ~16 seconds to close. There are two colors: black and beige.

LC Convertible will come standard with Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+). This includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Lane Keep Assist, All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Intelligent High Beams. Also like the LC 500 coupe, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert come standard.

Specific to convertible are active roll bars that deploy upward when a rollover is detected. When not deployed, these roll bars are hidden from view to retain the convertible’s silhouette when the top is down.

Lexus Enform Safety Connect comes standard and is complimentary for the first three years of ownership with access to Lexus Enform response centers 24/7/365. With Lexus Enform Service Connect, complimentary for the first 10 years, the vehicle can send alerts for specific factory recommended maintenance, simultaneously alerting a preferred Lexus retailer. The Lexus app or LexusDrivers.com website can be used to set push-reminders and alerts for maintenance and service issues.

At the Los Angeles International Auto Show is the LC 500 Convertible Inspiration Series. This special edition is limited to only 100 units and will be offered in Structural Blue with white semi-aniline leather interior trim, blue top, with gray headlamp, side intake and tail-lamp accents.