2024 Lexus LC 500 Swaps its Annoying Trackpad for Enhanced Ultimate Edition

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Towards the end of this year, the 2024 Lexus LC 500 will address its most significant drawback—the widely criticized infotainment trackpad. Over the past few years, Lexus has been gradually shifting away from its trackpad system, opting instead for a sleeker touchscreen setup. While the LC 500 is among the last Lexus models clinging to the old and burdensome controller, this year will signal its much-anticipated departure.

Aside from parting ways with its trackpad, Lexus has upgraded the infotainment display from a 10-inch unit to a more expansive 12.3-inch screen. Moreover, the screen has been shifted 86mm (3.4 inches) nearer to the front occupants for improved usability now that it operates as a touchscreen. Furthermore, Lexus has enhanced the voice recognition system, which can now be activated by uttering “Hey Lexus” and is responsive to approximately 100 different directives. Thankfully, the climate controls in the LC 500 remain physical.

However, Lexus didn’t merely swap screens and call it a day. The center console switches are now laid out longitudinally, there is a new aluminum volume knob conveniently accessible to both front occupants, Apple CarPlay now supports both wireless and wired connections (while Android Auto remains wired-only), and a new cloud-based navigation system has been added.

Furthermore, the 2024 Lexus LC 500 introduces two fresh paint colors and two additional interior selections. The new exterior hues include Heat Blue Contrast Layering and Sonic Copper, with interior options now featuring Blue & White and DK. Rose. The LC 500 is now equipped with a digital rearview camera, and opting for the Sport Package grants carbon fiber sill plates.

The sleek two-door vehicle is now safer than ever, with updates to Lexus’ Safety System+ enabling it to detect cyclists, alongside other vehicles and pedestrians, and apply brakes accordingly. Additionally, the system can guide the LC to stay within its lane and reduce speed upon noticing a lower speed limit indicator.

Perhaps the most thrilling enhancement lies in its suspension, which has undergone improvements to its shocks, springs, and underbody braces. It also features upgraded steering, enhanced engine mounts, and a refined brake-by-wire system.

A novel addition to the LC 500 range is the Ultimate Edition, which introduces several unique elements. This includes an exclusive Hakugin White paint with a matte finish inspired by Japanese porcelain. Additionally, it comes with integrated canards molded into the bumper, rather than attached on top, a design Lexus claims is unprecedented worldwide. Inside, the matte white paint is complemented by a Kachi-Blue interior, reportedly influenced by samurai armor and recognized as a kachi-iro (victorious color).

Lexus could have chosen to discard the trackpad alone, satisfying customers. However, besides scrapping the trackpad, Lexus incorporated various new features and subtle adjustments that are expected to maintain the LC 500’s appeal as a compelling and engaging option in the realm of high-performance GT cars. Standard 2024 Lexus LC 500 models will commence production in May 2023 for the European market, though there’s no timeline for their arrival in North America. Ultimate Edition models for the European market will enter production in September 2023.

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