ANYONE with even the slightest interest in cars couldn’t help but lap up the gorgeous, throaty rasp of the V8 engine that graces the Lexus LC500. Electric and hybrid cars whisper, diesels rumble but the five-litre unit in this stunning coupe growls its power.

With the signature Lexus spindle-grille, unique lighting configurations, and low bonnet-line, the car exudes dynamism. To the rear, the cabin roof-line tapers between broad wheel arches reinforcing the motor’s muscular stance.

The good looks are underpinned by top technology: Incredibly strong, lightweight carbon fibre-reinforced plastic is used for the LC’s roof and door frames. The doors, boot and bonnet panels are made from lightweight aluminium, and the body frame is made from ultra-high tensile strength steel.

Press the key fob as you approach the car and it greets you - the flush-fitting door handle pops out automatically, welcoming you into a cabin which gets full marks for craftsmanship - from hand-stitched detailing, magnesium shift paddles and Alcantara door trims, to the, tactile leather-trimmed gearshift lever. Clever technology abounds including a multimedia screen with touch-pad and a colour head-up display.

The interior layout has an ergonomic intelligence, with controls and displays intuitively positioned. Frequently used controls, such as drive mode select, are close to hand on the steering wheel.

Features include heated steering wheel, heated/cooled front seats, rain-sensing wipers, posh satnav and connectivity, DVD player, DAB, Bluetooth, dual-zone climate control, 10-way power-adjustable front seats with memory setting for driver’s seat, LED interior lighting, aluminium sports pedals, aluminium scuff-plates, LED headlights with auto high-beam and follow-me-home function, LED daytime running lights and cornering lights, glass roof with sunshade, and heated auto-dimming, auto-folding door mirrors with memory and reverse-tilt functions.

Sophisticated safety features include vehicle stability control, traction control, hill-start assist, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, traffic sign recognition, and advanced lane-keep assist.

The driving experience is both exhilarating and reassuring, with bags of go and delightful handling. The big engine lays down its power via a 10-speed automatic gearbox (0-62mph, 4.4 seconds; top speed, 168mph).

Price: £79,265 inc options.