Lexus Has Just Discontinued Its Hybrid Coupe For Unrestricted V8 Excitement | Carscoops

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

       15 hours ago

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

       by Michael Gauthier

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      Lexus has phased out the LC 500h hybrid for the 2026 model year.

      The brand has unveiled a new Inspiration Series.

      Base pricing starts at $101,700, with the vehicle expected this fall.

      The Lexus LC was speculated to be on its last legs, but it will be back for 2026 with several changes. The most significant update is the removal of the hybrid powertrain.

      

      

      As a reminder, the LC 500h was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, two electric motors, and a compact lithium-ion battery pack. This setup allowed the vehicle to produce a total output of 354 hp (264 kW / 359 PS). Although the horsepower was modest, the coupe could go from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.7 seconds, reach a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h), and achieve fuel efficiency ratings of 26 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway, and 29 mpg combined.

      More: Lexus Discontinues the RC and RC F Coupes After 11 Years

      For comparison, the LC 500 boasts a robust 5.0-liter V8 engine that generates 471 hp (351 kW / 478 PS) and 398 lb-ft (539 Nm) of torque. It is paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission, enabling the model to accelerate to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 168 mph (270 km/h). These figures represent a notable enhancement over the hybrid, but the V8 only offers 16 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 18 mpg combined.

      

      

      

      

      In addition, the Inspiration Series will make a return, available in limited quantities. This coupe features a Smoke Matte Gray exterior, a carbon fiber roof, and 21-inch forged alloy wheels finished in matte black. Other distinctive elements include black accents, tinted lighting units, canards, and a carbon fiber rear wing. The model is also equipped with red brake calipers and active rear steering.

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      The interior, styled in black and white, is outfitted with sport seats, unique sill plates, and a serialized badge on the center console. Buyers will additionally find a heated steering wheel, a head-up display, and a Mark Levinson premium audio system.

      Only 200 Inspiration Series coupes will be available in North America, alongside 350 Inspiration Series roadsters. The convertible version mirrors the coupe's design but features a Wind exterior with a brown and silver soft top. It also includes a limited slip differential and a Climate Concierge system for upper body heating.

      The LC 500 Coupe and Convertible are anticipated to arrive at US dealerships this fall. Pricing starts at $101,700 and goes up to $109,200 for the convertible, both prices inclusive of a $1,450 destination fee.