Chadwick Boseman's 2018 flick 'Black Panther' marked a major milestone for the movie industry. It was a smash hit and its cultural footprint, 2 years after the movie's release, is still enormous. The movie featured some very talented actors, some high octane action scenes, and... some supercars. We're car lovers and we couldn't help but notice the range of cool cars on display in this 2018 MCU blockbuster.
Out of all the great-looking beauties, the one that caught our attention was a beast from the chase scene filmed in Busan, South Korea. A high-octane scene - where the king of Wakanda, Black Panther is trying to chase down the bad guys - that involved 150 cars.
The stylish car that we're talking about is the Lexus LC 500. It was in the news well before the release of this MCU flick and was marketed as 'the Black Panther car'. It joined an elite list of supercars that have featured in the MCU. What is it that makes the LC 500 special? What are its key features? Does it deliver well in terms of performance?
Let's have a detailed look at the Lexus LC 500.
Key Features and Performance
Let us get one thing straight, the Lexus LC 500 is not your ordinary car. It is extraordinary in more than one way. This grand tourer has a 5.0 L V8 engine. Bearing a synchronous electric motor of 132 kW, this monster can generate a power output of 351 kW. It delivers effortless performance and the available Yamaha performance damper provides added rigidity and a lighter suspension to enhance your driving experience. Lexus is renowned for producing some speed monsters and the LC 500 is no different. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and boasts a top speed of 168 mph. It features a speed-activated wing that helps to reduce lift and optimize downforce balance. This ensures better handling and control while driving at a high speed. Then there's something called 'Active Sport Exhaust' which according to the makers results in a "pure visceral symphony". The '10-Speed Direct-Shift Transmission' has been specially designed for the LC series. It has a faster shift time compared to a conventional automatic transmission. This system has been designed with precision; it adapts to your driving style by selecting the optimum gear based on the vehicle's speed, acceleration, and driving habits. The braking systems are equipped with six-piston calipers with two-piece brake rotors.
Technology and Safety
Technology is at the threshold of everything new, and the LC 500 understands that perfectly. The LC 500 comes with the most advanced climate system that adapts to your body temperature in real-time. It has a world-class audio and navigation system that helps you stay entertained and ensures you're on the right path during your journey. Thanks to the LC's Amazon Alexa compatibility, some functions are just a 'voice command' away, whether it's listening to the latest track or audiobook or controlling compatible smart-home devices such as lighting and security systems while you're one on the go. There's a color head-up display that projects key information about your speed, RPM, audio, etc. If you think this is it, there's the exclusive Lexus app that allows you to control your vehicle on the go.
As per the makers, the Lexus LC 500's safety features surpass all its predecessors. It boasts the exclusive Lexus Safety System+, the most advanced safety system ever offered by the brand. It comes equipped with intelligent high beams that offer added illumination to help provide greater visibility. There's a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection; it helps detect a vehicle or a pedestrian under certain conditions. The enhanced braking system can automatically brake the system should it detect any potential frontal collision.
Style and Design
This supercar was gracefully designed by a team of Tadao Mori (the chief designer), Pansoo Kwon (Production Exterior, 2013), and Edward Lee, who designed the concept of this wonder car way back in 2013. The sleek and hunky supercar is a sight to behold. Heads will turn when you take this beast for a ride, thanks to its sleek design and stunning exterior. It features a soft top that opens or closes in approximately 15 seconds at driving speeds of 30 mph, should you opt for a convertible. The dimensional rear combination tail lamps look stunning and feature 80 LEDs on either side. The LC's flush exterior door handles are fascinating; inspired by the welcoming gesture of having a door held upon for you. Its interiors are equally stunning and beautiful. If you're a fan of customizing your cars, we have good news for you. Lexus' online configurator gives you the opportunity to customize the LC 500 the way you like it. We tried our hands at building the perfect Lexus LC 500 and had a lot of fun in the process.
Overall, the Lexus LC 500 is a terrific package - good enough to convince the king of Wakanda.