Looming Departure: Potential End for Lexus LC500's V8 Engine Destruction
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💘 The iconic Lexus LC500 has been a fan favorite since its inception. With its sleek design, smooth drive, and thunderous V8 roar, it's hard not to love this beauty. While age might be catching up with it a bit, rumors suggest it's got a few more miles left in its engine. Japanese blog Creative Trend hints that the LC500 could be calling it quits after model year 2026, along with its classic V8 sibling, the IS500.
Before we start the mourning process, let's not jump to conclusions just yet. Creative Trend claims there will only be minor updates before the LC500 supposedly retires, but a limited production run of 200 Pinnacle Edition cars might be in the works. These special LC500s will be available through a lottery system, with 50 convertibles and 50 coupes reserved for both Lexus owners and the general public.
Deliveries of the Pinnacle Edition are set to begin towards the end of 2025 for current Lexus owners and early 2026 for the regular public. Creative Trend mentions that all coupes will come in matte silver, while convertibles will sport Neutrino gray paint (remember the IS500 Climax Edition? Yeah, it's the same color.) Other upgrades include Mark Levinson premium audio, 21-inch forged aluminum wheels, carbon fiber scuff plates, and a carbon fiber rear spoiler, among others.
I reached out to Lexus for a formal comment on these rumors. Their response? "Lexus products vary in each market around the world by model and/or grade. At this time, we have no news to share regarding the LC500 for our market." So there's still hope it might stick around in the U.S.
I recently spent some time behind the wheel of the LC500 convertible, which was a bloody great experience. Expect a full review soon, but let me just say now 🤐💼 - the world needs more cars like the LC500. Crossing my fingers it stays put, just as long as it keeps that growling, naturally aspirated V8 that has car enthusiasts salivating. I'm sorry, but the V6 hybrid LC500h just don't cut it, mate.
📅 Updated at 6 p.m. ET on 6/24/2025: This story now includes a statement from a Lexus spokesperson.
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In the realm of future car releases, it's suspected that the iconic Lexus LC500 and its V8 sibling, the IS500, might retire after model year 2026. As a consolation for car enthusiasts, there could be a limited production run of 200 Pinnacle Edition LC500s, featuring electric vehicles technology, car-maintenance upgrades, and a sports-inspired design.
