Limited-run Lexus LC Hokkaido Edition revealed
The charming Lexus LC grand tourer has been given a special edition makeover inspired by a volcanic Japanese island
Lexus has launched a special edition LC inspired by the volcanic island of Hokkaido in northern Japan. Featuring a range of visual tweaks over the standard car, a total of 80 examples will be delivered to customers across Europe, with order books set to open next month.
Not only is the island of Hokkaido home to numerous volcanoes, it’s also the location of the firm’s Shibetsu proving ground where it developed the LC and icons such as the LFA supercar. To pay homage, the LC Hokkaido Edition will be built in limited numbers with just 40 coupes and 40 convertibles available.
The cabin is where the biggest changes lie, with Lexus applying an exclusive black and ‘dark rose’ scheme designed to echo Hokkaido’s volcanic landscape. Rather unusually, this design is different on each side, with the driver’s zone surrounded by red tones, while the passenger area is primarily black – a numbered special edition plaque can also be found inside.
The most notable exterior change is the use of new 21-inch wheels, exclusive to the special edition with an intricate spoke design and two-tone black and silver finish. All examples will be available only in Flare red, Sonic platinum, F white or Graphite exterior shades, with more aggressive black trim, LED headlights and, on the convertible, a roof in either red or black fabric coming as part of the package – each example will feature an identical interior.
Buyers can opt to have the LC Hokkaido Edition in either 500h or 500 forms, providing the option of 3.5-litre V6 hybrid or naturally-aspirated V8 powertrains. The latter is our pick of the lineup, with the marque’s incredible 2UR-GSE 5-litre V8 sending 471bhp and 398lb ft of torque to the rear wheels for a 4.4sec 0-62mph time and 168mph top speed. No performance upgrades come as part of the special edition package.
The Lexus LC Hokkaido Edition will go on sale in Europe next month. Pricing is to be announced, but with the standard LC 500 Sport Pack priced from over £91,000, don’t expect it to start from much below the £100,000 mark.