Last week we had a 2021 Lexus LC 500h tester car. It is a luxury car with a fun, fast V6 hybrid powertrain that makes a gas tank stretch surprisingly far. The smooth transmission moves power to the rear wheels and you glide effortlessly through the city or down the highway. The entire experience is absolutely peaceful. But to own one of these it’s definitely pricey.

Not for everyone

Although I was able to fit two child safety seats in the back seat of the 2021 Lexus LC 500h, I still wouldn’t categorize it as a family car. It’s a peaceful and powerful way to go from point A to point B. Luxury amenities and safety features awaited me in the red leather and faux suede cabin. Everything in this car is soft.

The seats are comfortable, and plastic would feel completely out of place in the LC. Everything is ergonomic. I don’t love the Lexus infotainment set up with the touch toggle. When you reach to touch the screen and nothing happens, the realization quickly descends that this system is not, in fact, a touch screen. But it’s one of the only features in this machine that really feels amiss.

The Lexus LC 500h is an expensive way to drive to the yoga studio

For right around $100 grand, the 2021 Lexus LC 500h will have you feeling nice and Zen on the way to the yoga studio. And if this fits in your budget, I’d definitely recommend giving it a test drive. It feels like every inch was thought out and the flow of the design is graceful, yet somehow still seems to allude to the performance side of this stately-yet-sporty touring coupe.

The LC would be the perfect car to drive to the yoga studio for daily practice and pop into the market on your way home. However, while it would serve well as a daily driver for the right person, it would really shine as a vehicle for long commutes or road trips. It’s only going to be the right luxury car for some people. But for them, it will serve its intended purpose and beyond.

Is the Lexus LC 500h a hybrid?

Yes, it’s a hybrid. Other models have the 5.0-liter V8. The 2021 Lexus LC500h employs a V6 hybrid system called the “Lexus Multistage Hybrid.” The V6 engine works together with a set of strong electric motors powered by a “lightweight lithium-ion battery” according to Lexus.

Driving in the LC 500h, there’s definitely more than just a longer-lasting fuel tank. The 10-speed transmission feels smooth. The driver is witness to the connection between the hybrid system and the transmission. Though it’s a bit whiney at times, the powertrain is overall silky and peaceful. Plus, owners of the 2021 Lexus LC 500h get the increased fuel economy without sacrificing too much in terms of performance––in theory, I haven’t driven the V8, yet.

If it’s right, it’s right

If something like the Lexus LC 500h is in your car shopping wheelhouse, it’s absolutely worth test driving. This is a quality machine with a highly efficient and engaging powertrain. But if you’re choosing between something like the BMW i8, you’ll definitely want to try each option out and choose the one you like the most. The decision ultimately comes down to preference.