This month marks five years that I’ve been covering automotive content for eliteGen. To celebrate this milestone, I spent a few days in the 2026 Lexus LC 500 Convertible Inspiration Series, a limited-edition model with only 29 units available across Canada, serving as the nameplate’s swan song as Lexus has officially ceased production of this sports coupe after nine model years.
This Inspiration Series model is a striking build that differs from past model years, with a unique saddle tan and white interior, Gloss Black exterior trim, dark chrome wheels, and the cement-gray exterior colour shown here, called Wind. The brown-and-silver convertible soft top is also a remarkable colour that changes depending on the time of day.
Among the many premium vehicles I’ve reviewed over the years, no other model has garnered more thumbs-ups and compliments from strangers than the LC 500. It sports semi-exotic exterior proportions and eye-catching details that still wow nearly 10 years after its unveiling, and it also turns heads because it is a rare sight (only 143 units were sold in Canada last year). While it cannot command the MSRPs of a Mercedes-Benz or Aston Martin, it punches above its weight class in presence, exclusivity, and charisma, earning respect from knowledgeable car enthusiasts who value classic V8 grand tourers, Japanese quality, and meticulous attention to detail.
Speaking of attention to detail, this is a notable strength of the LC 500, particularly in the cabin, which still delights visually while offering excellent comfort. The flowing design of the centre console and door panels is cohesive, while nearly every surface features soft-touch materials and stitching, including the front seat bases. There is an overall artisanal feel inside, and some components are indeed crafted by artisans. For example, the shifter knob features four strips of leather and requires one hour of hand-sewing by expert Japanese craftspeople, called Takumi, to conceal the threads for a smooth finish. The stylish stitching patterns on the seating surfaces are also a fine touch.
Where the exterior and interior designs earn nods of approval, the LC 500’s drivetrain raises pulses and rounds out its uniqueness on the market. 
Press the engine start button, and you hear and feel the big-engine life force of the 5.0L naturally aspirated V8 engine. The entire vehicle rocks as the engine fires up with an emphatic roar. Mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, it produces 471 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque – relatively underpowered versus competitors because the engine lacks turbochargers, but more than enough muscle to thrill. Plus, the drivetrain’s versatility is its superpower.
Drive it civilly, and you get smooth, quiet, fuel-efficient operation typical of a Lexus. But set the drive mode to Sport+ and give it some revs, and it will sprint from a standstill to 100 km/h in 5 seconds and reward you with an invigorating, masculine, muscle-car exhaust note. It’s simply a glorious engine that must be experienced.
If you want to create more of a ruckus, pull the steering-wheel-mounted downshift metal paddle a few times to produce loud, rewarding exhaust crackles as the transmission downshifts, which might even scare pedestrians.
Buy one if you want to add to a vehicle collection, or get a taste of semi-exotic vehicle ownership before considering a jump to Ferrari or McLaren territory. Here are some reasons why:
- It will cost less to run and service than European competitors since servicing is not as complex, and you can achieve highway fuel consumption well under 10L per 100 km. This is rational luxury.
- Its naturally aspirated V8 engine is tuned to produce muscle-car exhaust notes that few vehicles offer from the factory. This engine’s increasing rarity may also help the LC 500 maintain its value over time.
- The vehicle is easy to drive and not ridiculously low, so ingress and egress will be easier than with exotic sports cars, plus the front seats are very comfortable.
- You will get admirers and strangers approaching you everywhere, which will brighten your day and validate your taste in vehicles.
New and used prices are currently overinflated across North America due to the nameplate’s recent sunsetting, but if you can find a new one from a dealership and are willing to cover the premium, buy it; this car will be rare and highly desirable well into the next decade.
If you shop for a pre-owned unit, you can choose from a V8 coupe or convertible, plus a hybrid V6 coupe. I say pick a V8-powered variant for greater mechanical theatrics and resale value.
I also recommend a 2024 to 2026 V8 coupe or convertible because you’ll get a larger, more user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system and the latest driver-assist technologies. The 2018 to 2023 models are fine, but those model years feature a less user-friendly infotainment system that uses a mouse-like trackpad for navigation. However, you do get an in-vehicle CD player to enjoy your old Cantopop/Mandopop CDs while driving.
As an auto industry professional, I am often asked which vehicle is my favourite. My general answer is to buy whatever you like – as long as it’s within your means and doesn’t make your family suffer. All brands have their strengths and weaknesses; choose a vehicle that’ll serve you well and make you feel good, one where, after you park it, you turn back once or twice to look at it.
I will continue to report on the newest luxury vehicles and their most compelling features, but for me, the LC 500 is my current favourite car, and I will find one in the coming years to keep forever – just like I will my 1990s Cantopop CDs.
