• Just one engine
• … and it’s a thirsty one
• You’ll need deep pockets to run an LC Convertible

Selecting your LC Convertible based on running costs is easy. Unlike the Coupe, which has a hybrid available, the Convertible comes with just a single engine – a 5.0-litre V8 petrol.

With such a large, powerful engine, it’s no surprise that fuel economy and CO2 numbers elicit a sharp intake of breath. The LC Convertible will return 24.1mpg on the WLTP combined cycle, while emitting 275g/km of CO2.

Combined with its 82-litre fuel tank, that means a cruising range of around 435 miles – if you take it gently. It also means a very hefty tax bill.

Those numbers – as difficult to swallow as they are – are actually well in line with the competition. In fact, they split the difference neatly, between the Audi R8 Spyder’s 21.1mpg and 302g/km and the Porsche 911 Cabriolet’s 28mpg and 208g/km.

Other costs to consider? Well, tyres for those huge 21-inch wheels won’t be cheap, and nor will other consumables such as brakes. The LC Convertible is in the highest insurance group, too. There’s no denying it, you pay a premium when you take on a V8 sports car from a high-end brand.

Reliability

• Reliability should be peerless – this is a Lexus
• No recalls to date
• Lexus customer service is excellent

At least one aspect of running the LC Convertible shouldn’t be expensive – if any luxury sports car is going to be reliable, it’ll be a Lexus. After two years on sale the LC Coupe hasn’t thrown up any major problems or been recalled, and there’s no reason to suspect the Convertible will perform any differently.

Lexus – and its parent brand, Toyota – frequently top the charts in reliability surveys, and even if there is a problem, Lexus dealers are known for putting customer service as their number one priority. Should anything need a repair, you’ll be treated exceptionally well.