Connected Services for updated Lexus LC

FROM this month Lexus will offer its Connected Services technology suite on every model following a comprehensive update to its flagship two-door LC coupe and convertible range.

Offered in conjunction with the latest Lexus multimedia system and additional safety features, the updated LC 500 coupe is now priced from $204,635 plus on-road costs, an increase of $4704 over the entry price of the outgoing model.

The former entry-grade LC 500h coupe jumps a dramatic $19,704 to now start from $212,727, while the LC 500 convertible now starts from $212,727 +ORC, also rising by $4704.

Lexus Australia says the addition of Lexus Connected Services aims to provide owners with greater peace of mind and additional connectivity.

The service offers real-time vehicle information including distance to empty, fuel quantity, odometer readout, recent trip information and vehicle location via the Lexus Connected smartphone app.

Owners may also remotely check whether the doors, windows, bonnet, and boot are closed or open, or if the hazard lights have been left on.

The system further allows owners the ability to remotely start the engine and unlock the doors or boot, while also providing cloud-based navigation, automatic collision notification, SOS emergency call function and stolen vehicle tracking.

A larger 12.3-inch infotainment display brings the latest Lexus multimedia technology to the LC’s cabin while also supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto connectivity. Lexus says the 13-speaker Mark Levinson audio system has also been updated to allow playback of high-resolution audio files from these sources.

Importantly, new active safety features have been added to the LC range including an expanded AEB offering which can now detect cyclists during daytime hours and pedestrians day or night.

Junction assist also becomes available, as does emergency steering assist which “may also support the driver with additional steering torque when performing an evasive steering manoeuvre”.

The LC’s dynamic radar cruise control is likewise enhanced with greater detection capabilities and is expanded to include speed sign recognition. Curve speed reduction is also added, suppressing vehicle speed in the event an upcoming corner requires a reduction in pace.

Other inclusions for MY24 include lane tracing assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and panoramic view monitor (360-degree camera system).

The 2024 Lexus LC is offered optionally with a single $15,000 Enhancement Pack which adds dynamic rear steering and variable gear ratio (front) steering, an active rear spoiler, carbon-fibre roof skin, 10-way power adjustable front seats, Alcantara and leather combination upholstery, and carbon-fibre scuff plates.

The previously optional Torsen limited slip differential and high-grade disc brakes are now included as standard.

MY24 hybrid (500h) coupe models now include the Enhancement Pack as standard fare.

Power continues to come from a choice of Lexus’ 2UR-GSE series 351kW/540Nm 5.0-litre V8, which arrives with new engine mounts for MY24, hooked up to a 10-speed automatic transmission, or a 3.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid and CVT combination developing 264kW/350Nm.

Paint colour choices for the LC range now include Sonic Copper and Cobalt Mica, joining White Nova, Sonic Chrome, Sonic Iridium, Titanium Graphite Black, Infrared, Zinnia Yellow and Khaki Metal. Carnelian and Deep Blue are discontinued.

Inside, Dark Rose leather upholstery replaces Flare Red while Manhattan Orange is discontinued.

2024 Lexus LC pricing*

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.