The Lexus LC 500 and Scion FR-S: Shared Character Beyond Design

Instructions

Earlier this year, I embarked on a remarkable road trip, covering nearly 1,000 miles in a Lexus LC 500 coupe. This car became not just a means of transportation but a true companion during those days on the road. There was something more to it than just the miles covered; it was a sense of familiarity that washed over me.

Discovering the Familiarity

At first glance, the $111,550 Lexus LC 500 seemed like a world away from my daily drives. However, as the miles piled up, I began to understand how it connected with my past. The character of the Lexus harkened back to the Scion FR-S I once owned. Despite the vast differences in price, performance, and design, there was a common thread that bound them together.The Lexus' suspension, softer and more compliant, yet communicating through the steering wheel like its stiffer counterpart. It was a paradox that defied logic. While the Lexus is a high-dollar exercise in comfort and luxury, it never lost the sports-car spirit of its little brother. Its 471-horsepower V8 engine mated to a laggy automatic transmission was a far cry from the manual gearbox of the Scion. But in the way they interacted with the driver, they were one and the same.The Lexus comes from Toyota City, while the Scion hails from a Subaru plant in Gunma. Yet, when behind the wheel, a blindfolded driver would sense the familial ties. Their character is not just a result of design and assembly but of the countless little choices made during their development by Toyota.In conclusion, the Lexus LC 500 is more than just a car; it's a journey through time and a reminder of the connections we make with vehicles. It shows that even the most disparate of cars can share a secret language, a bond that transcends price and performance.
READ MORE

Recommend

All