Lexus Manila unveils flagship coupe at the 2016 PIMS

By Alvin Uy September 21,2016
PIMS 2016-17

LEXUS adds the LC500 to its lineup of performance vehicles. Ardie lopez

Lexus Manila unveiled its flagship LC 500h coupe and a full lineup of its other models including the RX 350 F-Sport, NX 200t F-Sport, LX 570, ES 350, GS F, and the RC F at last weekend’s Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS).

Inspired by Lexus’ LF-LC concept that debuted in 2012, the LC500 impressed with its styling, performance and craftsmanship.

“When the Lexus LF-LC concept debuted at the 2012 North American International Auto Show, the press, our loyal customers and car enthusiasts wondered if the concept’s arresting styling and dramatic proportions could really ever evolve into a production vehicle.

“Now, four years after the debut of the breakthrough concept that inspired it, we reveal our flagship luxury coupe, shattering all those doubts.

“Our proven, high-revving 5.0-liter V8 uses a dual intake inlet to help improve breathing and allow the engine to produce its aggressive exhaust note.

“Because at Lexus, not only do we want to transport you, we want to transport your senses as well. Making the strongest statement yet about Lexus’ future product direction, feast your eyes on the provocative athletic LC500 flagship coupe,”  said Giri Venkatesh, general manager for Brand Management of Lexus Asia-Pacific Division, who flew in for the launch.

He added that the Philippines is an extremely important market for Lexus in Asia, especially for its performance vehicles.

He said that the Philippine market accounts for the highest number of sales from its performance lineup than any other market in the region.

Although Venkatesh was initially referring to LC 500 with the V8 engine variant, what was showcased at the PIMS was its hybrid variant, the LC500h, with a new 3.5-liter V-6 multistage hybrid engine.

It features the instant torque and efficiency of a powerful electric motor, with the direct response of a multistage transmission, elevating the high performance nature of an otherwise docile-sounding hybrid unit.

The chassis is crafted with a variety of materials that enhance structural rigidity, including high-strength steel, lightweight carbon fiber and aluminum.

It combines quality with sophistication befitting a flagship Lexus premium coupe matched with high driving pleasure and passenger comfort.

Like in all Lexus vehicles, the LC500’s all-new interior design is a showcase of its future direction for transforming functional experiences into an emotional connection.

“We aim to show that Lexus is a vigorous and electrifying brand, more than capable of creating an emotional connection between the driver and the vehicle. We aim to show that while there are those who push boundaries, Lexus ignores them altogether. Lexus consistently goes beyond limits in the race towards excellence,” said Ariel Arias, Lexus brand champion and Marketing vice president for Toyota Motors Philippines.

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