Special new wing gets help from Red Bull Aerobatic Pilot
Aviation-themed LC limited to Japan
Lexus is building a special run of LC500s that take a little bit from the LFA and a little bit from Ryan Reynolds to make what might be one of the coolest special editions around. It’s called the Lexus LC Aviation, and it has a glorious rear wing that works to increase downforce and even improve turn-in response.
The key to the Aviation model, which will be offered in both LC 500 and LC 500h powertrains, is that carbon fibre reinforced plastic rear wing. Rather than just a flat bar, this wing arcs to follow the curved rear end of the LC. At the edge of the wing you won’t find normal endplates, but will instead find something that looks like the winglets of a jet airliner only pointed down instead of up.
It’s built by craftspersons who formerly worked on the LFA and that car’s 3D carbon loom bodywork. It was designed using knowledge and technique Lexus got from famous Japanese aerobatics and racing pilot Yoshihide Muroya.
Lexus says the rear wing creates downforce, and “ensures excellent driving stability,”, it’s those wing-tip downturns that set it apart. They control the airflow on the side of the car, giving it what Lexus calls “quick yaw response and smooth changes in vehicle posture.” the automaker says it creates a vortex that reduces air resistance and car body shaking, making it a better performer at speed.
It doesn’t hurt that the craftspersons who make the wings give each one a beautiful carbon texture.
Other changes for the 70-off Aviation LC include a black front grille and garnish along with black taillights. The interior is Aviation Black, which Lexus says is reserved for special vehicles. Lexus also says that Alcantara on the centre console and door trim gives the parts of the car you feel “a moist touch,” which we think is something that got lost in translation. There is also a Torsen limited-slip rear to help the car accelerate away from corners, and quickly get you away from that touching moistly.
