Does the LC 500 have a dual clutch transmission?
No — the Lexus LC 500 uses a 10-speed automatic transmission with a torque converter, not a dual-clutch transmission.
The LC 500, Lexus’s flagship grand tourer, pairs its 5.0-liter V8 with a conventional automatic gearbox to deliver refined performance and smooth, long-distance cruising. This article explains the transmission setup and how it compares with dual-clutch designs commonly found in other sports cars.
Transmission details
Below is a concise breakdown of the LC 500’s gearbox characteristics.
- Type: 10-speed automatic transmission with a torque converter (not a dual-clutch design).
- Development: Co-developed with Aisin and marketed by Lexus as a Direct Shift 10-Speed Automatic.
- Gear spread: Wide range to balance rapid acceleration with comfortable highway efficiency.
- Drive controls: Paddle shifters and a manual mode to enable driver-selected gear changes.
In summary, the LC 500 favors smooth, refined shifts and ease of use over the ultra-rapid gear changes typically associated with dual-clutch transmissions.
Why a traditional automatic suits the LC 500
Automatics with torque converters are favored for their low-speed manners and long-term durability, which align with the LC 500’s grand-touring mission. While dual-clutch transmissions can offer peak performance and faster shifts in ideal conditions, they can be less forgiving in city driving and can add complexity and maintenance considerations. Lexus chose the 10-speed automatic to prioritize elegance, reliability, and a seamless driving experience.
- Shift quality: Smooth and seamless in everyday driving, including stop-and-go traffic.
- Durability: Strong long-term reliability with established maintenance profiles.
- Rider experience: Consistent feel across speeds, with refined response at highway speeds.
- Maintenance considerations: Generally less complex/more economical to service than some dual-clutch setups.
These factors help explain the LC 500’s transmission choice as a balance between performance, refinement, and everyday usability.
Summary: The LC 500 does not use a dual-clutch transmission. It relies on a Direct Shift 10-Speed Automatic with a torque converter, delivering smooth shifts and strong highway performance while prioritizing refinement over the razor-quick gear changes associated with dual-clutch systems.
