2016 Detroit Auto Show: Lexus LC500 is as sexy as they come

The 2017 Lexus LC500 is one of the most spectacular seen at the 2016 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. It’s a direct evolution from 2012’s LF-LC, and is impressive as a result. Indeed, it was enough to win the prestigious EyesOn Design award, given to the world’s most talented automotive designers. In fact, it managed to win the double, earning the laurels for both exterior and interior design.

It’s indeed remarkable how Lexus has managed to maintain its design fidelity over these three years since the LF-LC debuted. It’s quite an achievement, and a historical success. In 2012, the LF-LC won in the Concept category.

And the EuesOn Design jury is not just some mishmash of members of the motoring press; designers, art professors and automotive executives are all represented on the judging panel. The fact that both peers and experts that are making the decision adds tremendous value to the award.

On addition to its sensational styling, the 2017 Lexus LC500 packs quite the punch in the power department. A 5.0-litre V8 resides under that long, sculpted hood and it’s good for 467 horsepower and 389 lb.-ft. of torque, reflecting the figures made by the RC F and GS F models already in Lexus’ line-up.

While the V8 lump may be nothing new, the transmission surely is; for the first time, a Lexus model is getting a dual-clutch automatic. It’s not just any dual-clutcher, either, considering it’s got 10 speeds with which to work. Lexus is promising exceptional performance from the ‘box.

Of course for now, the big question of the LC500’s price remains. Judging by the fact the car is aimed directly at the Porsche 911, we’re probably looking at $100,000-125,000, depending on spec.