Lexus LC 500 - High-Output V8 with Sound and Fury

Описание: 2018 Lexus LC 500 - Interior, Exterior and Drive.

The LC 500 is powered by the latest development of Lexus’ normally aspirated V8 gasoline engine, tuned to deliver 471 hp, with improved acceleration feel to the driver and the kind of engine note that only eight cylinders can deliver. This unit is matched to the aforementioned 10-speed direct shift automatic to offer a genuinely rewarding driving experience.

The desire was to preserve the LF-LC’s defining low roof and hood lines, while ensuring the packaging allowed the LC to match the concept in accommodating a sport suspension and 21-inch forged alloy wheels. At the same time, all powertrain, chassis and safety components had to be housed and comfortable headroom had to be provided in the cabin. The teams had the benefit of working on a completely new GA-L (Global Architecture – Luxury) platform, designed for new generations of front engine/rear-wheel drive Lexus models.

As an example of the teams’ commitment to success, the front suspension components went through six months of re-working the multilink suspension control arm geometry until the required low hood line was achieved, without compromising suspension performance. Other clever solutions were developed, such as the new ultra-slim LED headlight unit design, which allowed the LC to retain exceptionally short front overhangs.

The performance heart of the LC 500 is Lexus’ high-revving (maximum 7,300 rpm), normally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 gasoline engine. It is a development of the Atkinson cycle unit which has been deployed to good effect in the GS F and RC F, its performance supported by advanced D-4S fuel injection technology.

The V8 supports the essential dynamic character of the performance coupe, providing smooth, linear throttle response and generating a stirring engine note. Maximum power of 471 hp delivered at 7,100 rpm, with maximum torque of 398 lb.-ft. generated at 4,800 rpm. This gives the LC 500 a zero to 60 mph sprint time of less than 4.5 seconds. The intent is to give the driver the responsiveness and high output customers expect from a normally aspirated unit.

The engine is designed for durability and has a lightweight construction, with high-strength, forged connecting rods and titanium valves that allow it to flourish at high revs. A dual intake inlet enables efficient breathing and contributes to the unit’s distinctive sound. Noise and vibration have been reduced by the use of a double torsional damper on the crank pulley, while fuel efficiency is supported by the use of D-4S direct fuel injection, Atkinson cycle operation, optimized VVT-i operation and a high compression ratio. Extensive measures have also been taken to reduce friction and pumping losses.

In designing a new Direct Shift automatic transmission for the LC 500, Lexus sought to avoid the drawbacks of systems where driving pleasure is diminished by the wider spacing of the higher gears, often producing an unappealing, drawn-out engine sound. It recognizes the critical role the transmission plays in generating a rhythmic drive through good feedback and quick shifts that respond instantly to the driver’s wishes.

The solution is a new 10-speed unit with close ratios that bring the gears closer together, and even spacing between each gear.

The skills and experience of the Takumi were further invested in securing excellent driving dynamics for the new performance coupe. The aim was to ensure that the promise of a great drive expressed by the car’s styling and the sound of the engine upon start up is delivered when a driver gets behind the wheel and drives away.

The sharpness and responsiveness of the steering, the strong, rhythmic progress of the transmission, the supportiveness and comfort of the seats and the position of the driver’s feet and the pedals – all these elements and more were scrutinized to produce the best possible combination, with the goal not just of a rewarding drive, but performance that actively makes one want to drive.

Prototypes were assessed on all kinds of roads, including in Europe and the USA, to help ensure that its ride and handling meet the different demands of drivers and driving conditions around the world. The Takumi master driver works exclusively on the LC to maintain a complete focus, making fine adjustments to achieve the best results, right up to the start of production.

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