Does the LC 500 have a CVT?
The short answer: no. The Lexus LC 500 uses a traditional 10-speed automatic transmission, not a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The LC 500 is Lexus’ flagship grand tourer powered by a 5.0-liter V8, and its drivetrain is tuned for performance and refined highway cruising. This setup prioritizes immediate throttle response and defined gear shifts over the smooth, endlessly variable ratios typical of CVTs.
What kind of transmission does the LC 500 use?
Key facts about the LC 500's gearbox are:
- 10-speed automatic transmission (10AT) developed for performance, commonly marketed as Direct Shift 10AT by Lexus.
- Engineered to handle the V8's torque with quick, decisive gear changes.
- Discrete gears produce a sporty driving feel, unlike a CVT which alters ratios continuously for smoothness.
In short, the LC 500 relies on a conventional automatic rather than a CVT, aligning with its performance-oriented character. The absence of a CVT means more immediate throttle response and defined shifts at higher speeds.
How this choice fits within the LC lineup
To provide context, Lexus aligns the LC family around drivetrain styles that match their design goals. The LC 500's V8 and 10-speed automatic emphasize performance and responsiveness, whereas hybrids in the LC family (notably the LC 500h) use different hybrid systems and transmissions designed for efficiency—without a CVT in the LC 500 segment.
The bottom line is that if you're seeking a CVT-equipped vehicle, the LC 500 is not that model; its transmission is a traditional automatic tuned for high-performance driving.
Summary
The LC 500 does not use a CVT. It features a 10-speed automatic transmission designed to pair with its 5.0-liter V8 for strong performance, quick shifts, and a driving character that favors engagement over CVT-smoothness.
