Is the LC 500 hardtop?
The LC 500 coupe is a fixed hardtop, while the LC 500 Convertible uses a retractable soft top, not a hardtop.
The Lexus LC line sits at the premium end of Lexus’ lineup, featuring two distinct roof styles: a fixed-roof coupe and a convertible with a soft top. This article breaks down how these roof configurations differ, what they mean for performance and practicality, and which version suits different driving preferences.
Roof configurations across the LC lineup
To understand what counts as a hardtop in the LC family, it helps to review the two main roof setups currently offered:
- LC 500 Coupe and LC 500h Coupe: fixed, rigid roof (hardtop). This configuration provides a traditional closed-roof silhouette and enhanced chassis rigidity.
- LC 500 Convertible: retractable soft top. The roof folds away when opened and does not involve a hardtop roof.
In practice, this means the LC 500 Coupe is a true hardtop by design, while the LC 500 Convertible relies on a soft top rather than a hard, rigid roof.
Additional considerations: performance, storage, and experience
Beyond the roof type, buyers weigh how the roof choice impacts handling, cabin quietness, and luggage capacity. The fixed roof of the coupe generally contributes to higher stiffness and refined aerodynamics, while the convertible trades some cargo space and added roof weight for the open-air experience.
- Fixed-roof LC 500 Coupe: benefits include traditional coupe styling, strong chassis rigidity, and a focused driving experience.
- LC 500 Convertible: benefits include open-air driving and striking aesthetics, with trade-offs in trunk space and roof mechanism weight.
Bottom line: if you want a true hardtop experience, choose the LC 500 Coupe. If you prefer an open-air drive, the LC 500 Convertible offers that with the expected compromises in cargo and weather sealing.
Summary
For clarity, the LC 500 Coupe is a hardtop, fixed-roof model, while the LC 500 Convertible uses a soft top and is not a hardtop. This distinction matters for factors like rigidity, aerodynamics, storage, and the overall driving feel. Prospective buyers should decide whether the traditional closed-roof experience or the retractable-top openness best matches their lifestyle and climate.
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 LC 500 a hard top?
The 2026 LC 500 Inspiration Series
The coupe commands attention with its striking Smoke Matte Gray exterior hue, while the convertible captivates with its Brown-Silver soft top and body finished in Wind.
Can the LC 500 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.
Does the Lexus LC 500 have AWD?
No, the Lexus LC 500 is not available with all-wheel drive (AWD) in most markets, including the US, and is strictly a rear-wheel drive (RWD) vehicle. All models are equipped with RWD, and there is no AWD version offered.
- Drivetrain: The LC 500 uses a rear-wheel drive (RWD) platform, which is a key part of its performance design.
- Availability: You will not find an AWD version of the LC 500 on sale.
- Confusion: Some other Lexus models, like the LS 500, do offer an AWD option, which may be a source of confusion.
- Regional variations: While RWD is the standard for the LC 500, some reports suggest that AWD options might be available in specific markets like Malaysia, but this is not the case for the US market.
