The Gentleman Magazine Issue 18 | December 2019 | Page 21

The brace is made of lightweight die-cast aluminium to
minimise added weight, while a performance damper
ensures a high level of ride comfort. There is further
under-body bracing, which makes use of magnesium and
aluminium in its construction to obtain both high rigidity
and light weight. The result is dynamic performance true
to the driver’s intentions.
The naturally aspirated V8 engine is mated to Lexus’s
10-speed direct shift automatic transmission, giving linear
yet invigorating acceleration. Power output is tuned to suit
the road, with smooth acceleration in everyday driving
and acceleration to the limit when the driver desires and
the occasion permits.
The fabric has been manufactured and selected to ensure
optimal tension, free from wrinkling and to provide excellent
sound insulation.
The attention to detail includes colour choices for the exterior,
soft-top and interior to match the tastes and diverse lifestyles
of LC customers. Interior details include a pattern of graduated
quilting and perforations on the upper sections of the seats and
the Lexus “L” emblem embossed on the headrests.
The opening and closing action of the soft-top is carefully
controlled, particularly at the start and finish, conveying a sense
of quality and safety. Movement of the roof and tonneau cover
is precisely synchronised and accomplished with class-leading
speed. The top can be raised or lowered while the vehicle is
in motion, at speeds up to 31mph (50km/h). An animation
display in the instrument binnacle allows the driver to monitor
the operation’s progress.
To make driving even more enjoyable with the top down,
the LC 500 Convertible is fitted with a sound generator
that transmits sounds from the engine intake through
the dashboard, and an exhaust valve that enhances the
powerful engine note.
Human-centred cabin design
Lexus focused on aerodynamic elements such as the beltline
and rear moulding, and a transparent polycarbonate wind
deflector to manage wind flow and maintain quietness
in the cabin. This preserves the special feel of open-air
driving while still making conversation possible. Sound
management is key: the LC 500 Convertible is equipped
with Active Noise Control and benefits from sound
insulation and absorption measures to suppress unwanted
noise and unpleasant sound frequencies.
Exhilarating Performance and the convertible driving
experience The audio system faithfully reproduces the original sound
of instruments, vocals and recording environment. Its
acoustic design automatically changes when the top is up
or down, so listening quality is maintained.
The LC 500 Convertible has a new body structure designed
to achieve a level of rigidity that supports the same signature
driving quality as the coupe, while maintaining beautiful
styling and appropriate luggage space. Precise design and
location of the rear suspension tower brace has been key to
gaining the desired structural rigidity. Similarly, the Lexus Climate Concierge adapts heating
and ventilation according to whether the roof is raised or
lowered, automatically controlling the air conditioning,
seat heaters, neck heaters and steering wheel heater to
ensure comfort for everyone on board, regardless of the
temperature outside.
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