By: Krish Persaud
April 24, 2025
Some cars demand attention the moment you see them—and the 2025 Lexus LC500 Convertible is one of them. With the roof down, its flowing silhouette and Ultrasonic Blue Mica paint command presence in a way few modern grand tourers can match. But this Lexus isn’t just about looks. It offers a rare kind of driving experience that blends a soulful naturally aspirated V8 with precision-built luxury and everyday usability. For a week, we lived with the LC500 Convertible to find out if its dramatic looks are backed by genuine substance—and whether it’s more than just a showstopper.
The Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0 finish on our test vehicle, provided by Toyota Canada Inc., looked radiant under varying light. Complementing the exterior is a standout Blue & White semi-aniline leather interior and a matching blue soft top that retracts smoothly into the trunk with a single touch. The overall design makes a lasting impression—whether parked or in motion, the LC500 Convertible doesn’t go unnoticed. Its proportions, elegant curves, and distinctive rear light signature regularly invited double takes from passersby throughout the evaluation week.
Power comes from the same robust 5.0-litre V8 (2UR-GSE) found in the coupe, delivering 471 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, it’s an engine that favors engagement over brute force. Acceleration is linear, and the naturally aspirated soundtrack—especially with the top down—turns highway tunnels and suburban roads alike into mini amphitheatres. The exhaust note has a rich tone at idle and builds to a controlled roar as the revs climb, without ever feeling overdone.
Our test vehicle was equipped with the Performance Package, adding dynamic enhancements such as a rear performance damper, active rear sport differential, and adaptive variable suspension (AVS). The multi-link setup at all four corners worked seamlessly across different road surfaces, maintaining composure while absorbing imperfections with ease. Even with the larger 21-inch wheels wrapped in P275/35R21 (rear) and P245/40R21 (front) tires, the ride was surprisingly compliant, balancing firmness with comfort. The forged alloy wheel design deserves special mention for its sculptural aesthetic and how well it frames the massive brakes beneath.
Inside, Lexus’s craftsmanship is immediately evident. The 8-way power adjustable front seats are trimmed in supple semi-aniline leather, finished in a two-tone Blue & White that lends a bespoke feel to the cabin. The seats offer outstanding support, whether cruising with the top down or on longer drives with the roof up. And with the top in place, the LC500 Convertible remains impressively quiet. The roof seals well against wind and road noise, creating a serene, coupe-like environment—an achievement not all convertibles can claim.
The Lexus Climate Concierge enhances comfort with heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and neck heaters integrated into the seatbacks, making top-down driving feasible even on chillier days. The Mark Levinson premium sound system, with 13 speakers and 915 watts of output, is tailored specifically to the LC’s cabin acoustics, ensuring clarity and richness whether the roof is open or closed.
Fuel efficiency is rated at 15.1L/100km city, 9.6L/100km highway, and 12.6L/100km combined, according to Natural Resources Canada. In our combined driving cycle, we observed an average of 12.3L/100km—respectable given the performance and weight of the vehicle.
Pricing for the 2025 Lexus LC500 Convertible begins at $131,450 in Canada. Our as-tested model included premium paint and the Performance Package, bringing the total to $141,326.30 before tax. For buyers seeking exclusivity, craftsmanship, and an emotional driving experience, the LC500 Convertible offers a compelling proposition.
There’s something rare about a car that can stir the senses before it even moves. The 2025 LC500 Convertible does exactly that—with a naturally aspirated V8 that’s becoming increasingly hard to find, impeccable build quality, and a sense of presence that makes every drive feel like an event. It’s not just about the speed or the sound, though both are exceptional—it’s about how cohesive the entire experience is. From the quiet comfort of the cabin with the roof up to the immersive drama with it down, the LC delivers a level of satisfaction that’s difficult to replicate.
For those who still value design purity, mechanical connection, and timeless craftsmanship in a rapidly digitizing world, the LC500 Convertible isn’t just worth considering—it’s worth remembering.
Vehicle Specs
Segment: Luxury grand touring convertible
Powertrain: 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8
Horsepower: 471 horsepower
Torque: 398 lb-ft.
Transmission: 10-speed automatic transmission
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Suspension: Multi-link with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS)
Brakes: Aluminum monoblock calipers, 2-piece front rotors
Wheels: 21-inch forged alloy wheels
Tires: P275/35R21 (rear), P245/40R21 (front)
Observed Fuel Efficiency: 12.3L/100km (combined)
Rated Fuel Economy (NRCan): 15.1L/100km city, 9.6L/100km highway, 12.6L/100km combined
Curb Weight: Approx. 2,045 kilograms (4,508 pounds)
Base Price: $131,450 CAD
As-Tested Price: $141,326.30 CAD