Is the LC 500 convertible a hardtop?
No. The LC 500 Convertible is equipped with a power-retractable fabric soft top, not a hardtop.
Launched for the 2019 model year, the LC 500 Convertible uses a three-layer fabric roof that folds away into the trunk. This open-air configuration preserves the coupe’s styling and performance while prioritizing a luxurious convertible experience rather than a metal hardtop system.
Roof design and mechanism
Soft-top details
Here's a snapshot of how the LC 500 Convertible's roof works and what it means for practicality and driving experience.
- Type: Power-operated fabric soft top
- Opening/closing time: roughly 15–16 seconds
- Operational speed limit: can be opened or closed while driving up to about 31 mph (50 km/h)
- Cargo impact: top folds into the trunk, reducing available luggage space when lowered
- Comfort amenities: multi-layer fabric insulation to enhance cabin quiet and climate control
In short, the LC 500 Convertible relies on a soft top for open-air capability, trading some trunk space for convenience and acoustics.
How it compares to the LC 500 Coupe
To understand the full picture, here are the key distinctions between the convertible and the fixed-roof coupe.
- Roof type distinction: fixed metal roof (coupe) versus soft-top (convertible)
- Structural reinforcement: convertibles require additional bracing to preserve rigidity
- Trunk and interior space: the convertible generally offers less cargo space, especially when the roof is down
- Performance and dynamics: core powertrain remains similar, but added weight and rigidity considerations can influence handling
- Pricing and market position: convertibles typically carry a higher price due to the roof mechanism and equipment
These distinctions help explain why the LC 500 Convertible delivers the same V8 excitement with a different roof and usability profile compared with the coupe.
Summary
The LC 500 Convertible is not a hardtop; it uses a power-operated fabric soft top. The roof opens and closes in about 15–16 seconds and can operate at driving speeds up to around 31 mph. While it shares the same engine and luxury DNA as the LC 500 Coupe, the convertible weighs more and sacrifices some trunk space for open-air driving. As of today, there is no hardtop LC 500 Convertible in production.
Is the Lexus convertible a hardtop or soft top?
Sophisticated Retractable Hardtop Convertible
In addition, the top completely retracts with no elements remaining in view. The four-link roof assembly, also made of aluminum for a lightweight design, provides smooth even movement.
Is the LC500 a convertible hardtop?
There is no hard top option. Green is rare, so you would need to custom order it. My 2022 LC 500 convertible has a mica blue exterior and camel interior with a black soft top.
Is the Lexus LC 500 AWD?
No, the Lexus LC 500 is not available with all-wheel drive (AWD); it is exclusively rear-wheel drive (RWD). All LC 500 models, including the coupe and convertible, come standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission and RWD.
- Drivetrain: The LC 500 is a rear-wheel drive vehicle.
- Transmission: It is equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
- Hybrid model: The hybrid LC 500h also uses a rear-wheel drive system.
Can the lc500 convertible top be opened or closed going up to?
From a technical standpoint, the LC 500 Convertible's roof can be opened or closed at speeds up to 31 mph. An animated display on the multi-information display shows the top's progress and provides warning messages to confirm the status of the soft top roof.
