A Brief Look at the Lexus SC
The Birth of the Lexus SC
In the mid-1980s, Toyota noticed that the luxury vehicle market in the United States was dominated by European automakers. Toyota decided to challenge the status quo by launching a luxury division, which gave birth to the Lexus brand in 1989. The Lexus SC, which stands for Sport Coupe, was one of the two original models launched by the brand, alongside the flagship LS.
The First Generation Lexus SC (1991-2000)
The first generation of the Lexus SC was introduced as a replacement for the Toyota Soarer. It was offered in two versions: the SC 300 with a 3.0L dual overhead cam (DOHC) inline-6 engine producing 225 horsepower, and the SC 400 with a 4.0L DOHC V8 engine producing 250 horsepower. It was available with a four-speed automatic transmission on both models and a five-speed manual transmission only on the SC 300.
The exterior design of the first-generation Lexus SC was inspired by the 1989 Tokyo Motor Show concept car, the Toyota AXV-II. The car featured a sleek, aerodynamic shape, a long hood, and a short deck. The interior was just as luxurious as the exterior, made from high-quality materials and featuring advanced features such as automatic climate control, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and a premium sound system.
The Second Generation Lexus SC (2001-2010)
The second generation of the Lexus SC was introduced at the 1999 Tokyo Motor Show and went on sale in 2001. It was based on the Toyota Soarer platform and was designed to be a more refined and powerful version of the first generation.
The second-generation model was offered in two versions: the SC 430 with a 4.3L V8 engine producing 288 horsepower and the SC 430 Pebble Beach Edition that included a unique exterior color, custom wheels, and exclusive leather interior. It was only available with a five-speed automatic transmission.
The exterior design of the second-generation Lexus SC was even more bold and futuristic than the first generation, with the front grille featuring an aggressive “L” shape. The car also featured distinctive circular taillights, a retractable hardtop, and a unique one-touch power window that opened and closed with a single button.
The Third Generation Lexus SC (2021-present)
The third generation of the Lexus SC was reintroduced in 2021 with a completely redesigned model. It is smaller, has sharper lines, and a more muscular appearance than its predecessors. It features a GT-inspired design with a long hood, short overhangs, and a wide rear end.
The new Lexus SC is offered with three powertrain options: a V6 engine, a hybrid V6 engine, and a twin-turbo V8 engine. The hybrid V6 is expected to be the most efficient, with an EPA rating of 30 mpg. It is also equipped with the latest technology features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a Lexus Safety System, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen display.
The Lexus SC: A Legacy of Luxury and Performance
Since its introduction in 1991, the Lexus SC has become an icon of luxury and performance in the automotive industry. Its sleek design, powerful engines, and advanced features have made it a popular choice among enthusiasts and luxury car buyers.
The Lexus SC has evolved over the years, with each generation bringing new technology, features, and design elements. However, one thing that has remained constant is the commitment to excellence that Lexus has shown with every model.
Despite being discontinued in 2010, the legacy of the Lexus SC lives on through the introduction of the new third-generation model in 2021. With its bold design, powerful engines, and advanced features, the latest incarnation of the Lexus SC is sure to continue the tradition of luxury and performance that the brand has come to be known for.