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Bold styling for the Lexus LC 500h (pictures)

Lexus shows off the hybrid version of its all-new LC sport coupe, a potentially impressive and economical performance car.

Wayne Cunningham
Wayne Cunningham reviews cars and writes about automotive technology for CNET's Roadshow. Prior to the automotive beat, he covered spyware, Web building technologies, and computer hardware. He began covering technology and the Web in 1994 as an editor of The Net magazine.
Wayne Cunningham
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Lexus intends to add performance to its reputation with the all-new LC 500h.

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The new car joins its sibling, the LC 500, which was previously shown at the Detroit auto show.

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Under the hood, the LC 500h gets a newly developed hybrid drivetrain, with fuel economy likely above 30 mpg and zero to 60 mph times of under 5 seconds.

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With a front engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, the LC 500h follows a classic sports car format.

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Bold styling helps to distinguish the LC 500h.

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Quad tailpipes are hidden by ports in the rear fascia.

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As a coupe, the LC 500h has two doors and four seats.

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The spindle grille has become a standard Lexus design feature, but LED headlights add drama.

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The LC 500h measures about 15 and a half feet long.

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Lexus went with run-flat tires to save the weight of a spare.

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An adaptive suspension should improve handling.

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Hybrid badges adorn the sides.

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The cabin tapers in at the rear, emphasizing the look of the fear fenders.

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With its performance look, the LC 500h could go a long way towards changing Lexus brand perceptions.

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This taillight design is unique to the LC 500h, but could find its way to other models.

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These sport seats look comfortable, and able to hold passengers in place during fast turns.

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The dashboard emphasizes a horizontal look, making the cabin seem wide.

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Electric power steering will change its feel depending on the car's drive mode.

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Lexus gives the LC 500h 10 shiftable gears, created by the hybrid driveline through a combination of its fixed and variable transmissions.

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