Lexus Sports Cars

Discontinued Lexus Sports Cars

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If you want a Lexus sports car, you are in luck, because we are fortunate to have several of Lexus’ fastest cars to choose from in the USA. As befits a premium brand that has to compete with the European royalty, there have to be proper performance cars in the mix, and a few of the fast cars from Lexus certainly fit the bill. Here is a quick rundown of the new 2021 Lexus sports car lineup and what each brings to the table in this highly competitive market.

Best Lexus Sports Car Models

The automaker’s list of sporty automobiles currently comprises sedans, coupes, and a cabriolet - there is a noticeable lack of a performance-focused SUV bearing the Lexus badge. We don’t know if there are plans afoot to fill this niche, but for now, we will have to make do with the existing lineup, some of which are getting on in life. The old GS F has also finally been dropped from the list of active nameplates but is worth a mention. Here are the current models, and one that will arrive in the near future:

  • Lexus GS F: Discontinued after the 2020 model year, Lexus’ rear-wheel-driven, V8-powered sports sedan proved delightful to drive, although being quite thirsty at the pumps. It’s fitted with a premium interior and a long list of standard features, and despite being pricey as new, could be an excellent choice when bought second-hand.
  • Lexus LC: The LC family includes a 2-door coupe, a coupe hybrid, and a convertible. It offers arresting looks, a top-quality interior, very comfortable seats, and good handling. However, being a large GT, it is also heavy, especially the hybrid, with its battery and electric motor. The rear seats are virtually useless and the infotainment remains a bit of a mystery to the uninitiated. Interior storage for oddments is lacking and the trunk is subpar.
  • Lexus RC F: Nearly as old as the GS, the RC’s main drawcard next to the LC is its significantly lower starting price. It’s as well built as any Lexus and sports a premium cabin, but it’s heavy, doesn’t offer the performance of turbocharged rivals. Still, it comes as an exclusive Fuji Speedway Edition too, for a touch under $100k.
  • Lexus IS 500: Expected to launch in the fall of 2021, the 4-door Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance not quite a replacement for the missed IS F, but we are eagerly awaiting the reintroduction of an IS with a V8 in the US. The attractive styling and upscale cabin are pluses, and the infotainment system is much improved, but it suffers from the same foibles as other IS models, namely tight rear-passenger and cargo space.

The New 2021 Lexus Sports Car Price List

We’re not yet sure what the new IS 500 will cost, but it’s likely to be between $60,000 and $70,000. The rest of the Lexus sports-car price list for 2021 is available, though:

Model Power Engine Base Price
Lexus IS 500 472 hp 5.0L V8 Gas $56,850
Lexus GS F 467 hp 5.0L V8 Gas $85,010
Lexus LC Coupe 471 hp 5.0L V8 Gas $93,050
Lexus RC F 472 hp 5.0L V8 Gas $66,220
Lexus LFA 552 hp 4.8L V10 Gas $375,000
Lexus IS F 416 hp 5.0L V8 Gas $63,600
Lexus LC Hybrid 354 hp 3.5L V6 Hybrid $99,050
Lexus LC Convertible 471 hp 5.0L V8 Gas $101,100

What to Consider When Buying Fast Cars From Lexus

Before you drive home in one of the best Lexus sports car models, you’ll want to see exactly what they offer, and where they stand in comparison to the competition. CarBuzz’s buyer’s guide is a great way to do this. Our extensive reviews cover everyone from detailed specs to creature comforts and safety ratings. The comparison tool also lets you stack one model up against another, with a BuzzScore summary to give you an idea of which is the best value for your money.

If you are considering one of Lexus’ fastest 2021 models, look out for the following:

Pros

  • Staple naturally aspirated V8 is soulful and potent
  • Ride and handling mostly strike a good balance
  • High-quality, premium interiors
  • Smartphone mirroring has finally arrived
  • Hybrid offers competitive economy

Cons

  • Most models are heavy, hindering dexterity
  • Cramped rear seats and little trunk space
  • Infotainment systems can be complicated and unintuitive
  • Turbocharged rivals offer better power and 0-60 times

FAQs

How much power will the upcoming IS 500 have?

The IS 500 F Sport Performance will be fitted with Lexus’ naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine that develops 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque.

Can I have any of the Lexus sports cars with AWD or a manual gearbox?

No, the RC F, IS 500, and LC models are all restricted to RWD. The same goes for the transmissions: the IS 500 gets an eight-speed auto, with the RC F and LC coupe/convertible get a ten-speed auto. As with most hybrids, the LC Hybrid receives a CVT, though there is a backup four-speed automatic transmission.

Why are there two different coupe models with similar drivetrains?

The RC F is essentially a coupe version of the IS sedan, while the LC500 is a larger vehicle and a purpose-designed GT. It is also the most expensive Lexus sports car line. The RC F is significantly lighter with a starting price around $37k less than the LC, giving more people access to the V8 engine in a cheaper, lighter, more compact package.

Will there be a next-generation GS F?

At the moment, it seems unlikely. There has been talk of Toyota using the RWD Mirai platform for the next GS, but the sedan segment is in decline and even if this happens, a performance GS F is not guaranteed. It could even turn out to be a hybrid or electric car.

For more information on every car new or used car for sale in the US, complete with the features, acceleration figures, top speed, and MPG figures, be sure to read our in-depth reviews.

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