Another V8 Sports Car Is on the Verge of Being Discontinued | Carscoops

      Regrettably, it appears that the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine in the Lexus LC 500 is nearing its end.

      The Lexus LC 500 is set to receive a new Pinnacle Edition specifically for the Japanese market, limited to just 200 units as a farewell to the V8 engine.

      This Pinnacle Edition will be available in both Coupe and Convertible models, featuring unique enhancements.

      Even in an automotive landscape increasingly dominated by electrification and engine downsizing, the charm of a naturally aspirated V8 continues to resonate, albeit for a limited time. Lexus is embarking on a farewell tour for the engine that has defined its performance identity through new limited editions, signaling the conclusion of an era.

      Recently, Lexus unveiled the RC F Final Edition and the IS 500 Climax Edition in Japan, both serving as final offerings for the brand’s non-electrified V8 series. Now, recent reports from Japan indicate that the V8-powered LC 500 is set for retirement next, but Lexus allegedly intends to bid it farewell with a special edition.

      Although Lexus has not officially announced this, Japanese publication Creative Trend states that production of the LC 500, which has been available since 2017, will soon cease. A limited edition model, likely named the Pinnacle Edition, is expected to mark the final chapter for the V8 in Japan. While the production schedule has not been detailed, the edition will debut before the model is entirely phased out.

      Design Features and Color Options

      The design updates will be subtle yet recognizable. The Pinnacle Edition is anticipated to feature 21-inch forged alloy wheels, red brake calipers, and a carbon fiber rear spoiler. The Coupe will come in a new Matte Silver color, while the Convertible will be offered in Neutrino Gray with a Sand Beige fabric roof.

      As per the report, the LC Pinnacle Edition will showcase semi-aniline genuine leather seating and carbon fiber scuff plates inside. The color themes will vary by model type, with the Coupe in Black and White, and the Convertible in Saddle Tan and White. Standard features are expected to include a color head-up display and the Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System, along with various other high-end additions.

      The naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine will remain unchanged, delivering 471 hp (351 kW / 477 PS) and 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque, exclusively through a 10-speed automatic transmission. While major chassis improvements haven’t been reported, the Pinnacle Edition will reportedly include newly designed door striker plates, which Lexus claims will slightly enhance rigidity.

      Pricing and Selection Process

      The report indicates that production will be limited to 100 units each for the Coupe and Convertible versions, exclusively for the Japanese market. Buyers will be chosen via a lottery system, with half of the units reserved for current Lexus owners. Initial deliveries are anticipated for late 2025.

      The expected pricing for the LC 500 Pinnacle Edition starts around ¥16 million (about $109,000) for the Coupe and ¥16.5 million ($112,400) for the Convertible. For comparison, the standard LC 500 begins at ¥14.88 million ($101,400) and ¥15.5 million ($105,600), respectively.

      Lexus is likely to formally introduce the Japan-exclusive special edition on June 26. We will provide updates with official images and specifications once they are made available. It remains uncertain whether a similar edition will be introduced in North America for the 2026 model year, which may be the LC 500's final production year. The future of the LC 500h featuring its 3.5-liter hybrid V6 is also still unclear at this time.

      The LC (short for “Luxury Coupe”) debuted in 2017 after being showcased as a concept car in 2012. While it is produced on the same line as the high-end LFA at the Motomachi plant in Japan, it was not designed to be a direct successor to the V10 supercar. Instead, the LC established itself as Lexus’ flagship grand tourer, melding sharp aesthetics with long-distance comfort.

      Speculation suggests a successor model may be introduced later this decade, potentially sharing a platform with the next-generation Toyota GR Supra.

      Note: All images in this article depict the standard 2025 model year Lexus LC, not the anticipated special edition.