Long live the V8 as the LC 500h hybrid is dead

- Lexus has discontinued the LC 500h hybrid for 2026.
- The company has also introduced a new Inspiration Series.
- Pricing starts at $101,700 and the car arrives this fall.
The Lexus LC was rumored to be living on borrowed time, but it’s returning for 2026 with a handful of changes. The biggest development is the elimination of the hybrid powertrain.
As you may recall, the LC 500h featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine, two electric motors, and a small lithium-ion battery pack. This enabled the model to produce a combined output of 354 hp (264 kW / 359 PS). Despite the modest horsepower rating, the coupe could accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.7 seconds, hit a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h), and return 26 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 29 mpg combined.
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To put those numbers into perspective, the LC 500 has a glorious 5.0-liter V8 developing 471 hp (351 kW / 478 PS) and 398 lb-ft (539 Nm) of torque. It’s connected to a ten-speed automatic transmission, which allows the model to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 168 mph (270 km/h). Those are notable improvements over the hybrid, but the V8 only returns 16 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 18 mpg combined.
The other big news is the return of the Inspiration Series, which will be offered in limited numbers. The coupe features a Smoke Matte Gray exterior with a carbon fiber roof and 21-inch forged alloy wheels with a matte black finish. They’re joined by black accents, tinted lighting units, canards, and a carbon fiber rear wing. The model also has red brake calipers and active rear steering.

The black and white interior comes equipped with sport seats, special sill plates, and a serialized badge on the center console. Buyers will also find a heated steering wheel, a head-up display, and a Mark Levinson premium audio system.
Only 200 Inspiration Series coupes will be offered in North America, but they’ll be joined by 350 Inspiration Series roadsters. The drop top version follows in the footsteps of the coupe, but features a Wind exterior with a brown and silver soft top. They’re joined by a limited slip differential and a Climate Concierge system with upper body heating.
The LC 500 Coupe and Convertible are expected to arrive at US dealerships this fall. Pricing starts at $101,700 and climbs to $109,200 for the convertible, both including a $1,450 destination fee.

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