Lexus’ longstanding tradition of crafting exclusive vehicles through their Inspiration Series continues to elevate the status of the LC flagship coupe, an already exceptional automobile, into an even more exclusive realm. By limiting production numbers and attaching a significant six-digit price tag, the LC Inspiration Series stands as a coveted piece for enthusiasts looking to possess one of the most remarkable V8 grand tourers ever manufactured, particularly before the transition away from internal combustion engines.
In the upcoming year, the Inspiration Series makes a return with a fresh, distinctive color combination – a hallmark of this special line. Named Polar Surge Satin, this shade, akin to a matte white, graces both the LC500 coupe and convertible. Complementing this exterior hue is the Deep Blue interior, referred to as Katsuiro in Japan, drawing inspiration from traditional indigo dying techniques.
Interestingly, the pairing might ring a bell, as it closely resembles the Lexus LC500 Edge unveiled in Japan earlier. While Japan saw a mere 60 units allocated via a lottery system, Lexus has earmarked 125 for the North American market, bearing the name “Edge” like its Japanese counterpart. This moniker is tied to the inclusion of canards on the front bumper fascia, distinct from the regular LC, enhancing aerodynamics by managing airflow along the body sides and minimizing lift. A unique feature of the Edge version is the innovative process wherein finished fascias from the assembly line undergo a resin molding procedure, marking a pioneering advancement in the world of production cars.
For the coupe variant, the LC500 Inspiration boasts a rear carbon fiber wing, a familiar feature seen in previous Inspiration Series models. Additionally, the coupe is equipped with a standard carbon fiber roof, whereas the convertible boasts an exclusive blue top, harmonizing with the interior.
Beyond the exterior enhancements, the fixed-head Inspiration benefits from the convertible’s underfloor bracing, rear performance dampers by Yamaha, and a Torsen limited-slip differential. Select items, like the Sport or Dynamic Handling packages, which come at an additional cost, contribute further to the driving experience. The car rests on matte black wheels with a simple yet sporty 5-spoke design.
Under the hood, the power output remains unchanged, relying on the sonorous 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 that delivers 471 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque – an ample offering of performance.
Inside the cabin, the luxurious experience is elevated by the inclusion of a Mark Levinson 13-speaker, 915-watt surround sound system, typically a premium add-on. Moreover, the 2024 Inspirations feature Lexus’ improved 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen.
The 2024 iteration of the Lexus LC500 Inspiration Series continues the lineage of its predecessors, each identified by distinct colors such as Structural Blue, Flare Yellow, Nori Green, and Obsidian, all of which were produced in limited quantities. The coupe version of the 2024 series starts at $116,700, while the convertible variant is priced at $121,900, both figures encompassing a $1,350 destination charge. Enthusiasts can anticipate the arrival of these exceptional vehicles in showrooms during the early months of 2023’s fall season.
