Exclusivity And Practical Luxury On Four Fast Wheels

Fukuoka is considered the economic and political centre of Northern Japan.

- S.Muralidhar

It is the capital of Kyushu island and is culturally rich with a history in weaving and hand craftsmanship. It is also the birthplace for some of the world’s most luxurious cars. Located in the prefecture, Lexus’ Miyata plant manufactures popular models from the Japanese luxury car brand. It is also the training ground for the company’s famed ‘Takumi’ craftsmen.

A few weeks ago Lexus India took a bunch of Indian motoring journalists to get a curated experience, a sort of peek into the brand’s world. And the meat I was waiting to lay my hands on was not at the meal in Fukuoka’s only Michelin star restaurant approved by the Emperor’s chef himself, but it was parked outside, and on four wheels. Getting to drive the Lexus LC 500h was supposed to be the highlight of the trip. The fact that this Lexus flagship is coming to India next year, just made it even more interesting.

Design

Despite the shared alphabet, the LC 500 is not really a successor to the legendary LF-A — the limited production supercar from the brand that ended its run in 2012. But, it is the most capable sports car that you can buy from Lexus today. What I was being offered a spin in was the LC 500h with its V6 Hybrid engine (compared to the other one’s V8). With its long hood, low, aerodynamic, sports car profile and rear-set passenger cabin, the LC 500h is one sensuous flagship coupe. Lexus calls its design theme ‘seduction and technology’. I found it also to be a mix of beauty and purpose, very typical for many Toyota and Lexus cars.

One thought in my head before I got to see the LC 500h in the flesh, was how would the brand trademark spindle grille sit on a low slung sports car. Often overbearing, the execution of the spindle grille is so good that it is a surprisingly great fit for the LC 500h’s front design.