The Second-Best Lexus LC Is Dead

The Lexus LC500 has won many enthusiast hearts for its gorgeous design and sonorous 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V-8. Since its 2017 launch, the LC has also been available as a V-6 hybrid, the LC500h, but hardly anyone bought it. For 2026, Lexus has quietly killed off the hybrid model. If you want an LC, it’ll have to be a V-8, which to most will be no great sacrifice.

Carscoops first brought our attention to Lexus killing the LC500h. In announcing the 2026 model-year LC500 coupe and convertible, Lexus made no mention of the hybrid variant.

The LC500h featured a unique powertrain that Lexus only ever used on this coupe and the LS500h sedan. This “Multi-Stage Hybrid System” pairs a 3.5-liter V-6 with two motors and a power-split planetary gearset as in a typical Toyota hybrid (albeit with six cylinders instead of four). Where the system differs from other Toyota hybrids is by pairing all that with a separate four-speed automatic transmission. The idea is to provide a more conventional driving experience than a typical Toyota Hybrid System, with engine revs rising and falling, while also retaining some of THS’s inherent efficiency benefits.

Novel, but luxury coupe buyers aren’t necessarily looking for low emissions and fuel efficiency. Especially when the V-8 alternative offered more performance and character for a few thousand dollars less.

Other than the end of hybrid availability, the LC500 is mostly unchanged for 2026. Lexus has a new Inspiration Series trim package for coupe and convertible, with Lexus planning to make 200 and 350 units, respectively, for the US market. Each Inspiration Series features a new, exclusive exterior color, Smoke Matte Gray, while the convertible gets a pearl white called Wind. 

It might look as fresh now as it did eight years ago when Lexus began production, but the LC’s days are ending soon. Lexus is working on a new sports car, the LFR, which it’s positioning as a front-engine rival to the likes of the Chevrolet Corvette and Porsche 911. We’re expecting that car to debut some time early next year, replacing the LC when it goes on sale as a 2027 model.