Lexus Kills A Hybrid But Keeps The V8 Alive

Since its debut back in 2017, the LC lineup has included the LC500h, a V6 hybrid that aimed to blend efficiency with performance. Now, as Lexus announces details about the 2026 LC500 coupe and convertible, there’s no mention of the hybrid—because the LC500h is dead.

Its departure marks the end of a unique experiment. The LC500h was powered by the so-called Multi-Stage Hybrid System: a 3.5-liter V6 paired with two electric motors, a planetary gearset, and—unlike other Toyota hybrids—a traditional four-speed automatic transmission. The setup was meant to mimic the rising and falling engine notes of a conventional car while retaining the hybrid's efficiency.

The LC500h hybrid delivered a total system output of 354 horsepower while managing to deliver an impressive 0–60 mph time of 4.7 seconds, and a 155 mph top speed. By comparison, the standard LC500 and its 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 make 471 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a ten-speed automatic transmission, the V8 coupe sprints to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 168 mph.

Unfortunately, in a segment where buyers prioritize character, sound, and performance, the V8 LC500 made the better case—and did so for less money.

Besides bidding farewell to the hybrid, the LC500 returns largely unchanged, save for a new limited-run Inspiration Series trim. Lexus will produce just 200 coupes and 350 convertibles for the U.S. market, each finished in exclusive hues: a matte “Smoke Gray” for the coupe and a pearlescent “Wind” white for the convertible.

Otherwise, the core formula remains the same—rear-wheel drive, a 5.0-liter V8, and a fabulous exhaust system.

Despite being almost a decade old, the LC still turns heads like few other cars. But its time is nearly up. Lexus is already working on the LFR, a new front-engine sports car meant to succeed the LC and take aim at the Chevrolet Corvette and Porsche 911. That car is expected to debut in early 2026, arriving in showrooms as a 2027 model.

So while the LC's hybrid era ends with little fanfare, the simple naturally aspirated V8 lives on—at least for now—until the LFR arrives with a more complex twin-turbo V8 meant to satisfy modern emissions standards.

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