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Lexus LC 500 Hybrid Option Dropped

Lexus will not offer the LC 500h hybrid in the U.S. for 2026, focusing instead on the V8 model.

July 22, 2025 at 07:17 PM

Lexus LC 500 Drops The Hybrid Option For 2026 Because Literally Everyone Wanted The V8

Lexus will not offer the LC 500h hybrid in the U.S. for 2026, focusing instead on the V8 model.

Lexus LC 500 Drops Hybrid Option for 2026

Lexus has announced that the LC 500h hybrid will not be available in the United States for the 2026 model year. Since its launch in 2018, only 248 hybrid models have been sold in the U.S., a number that reflects a weak demand compared to its V8 counterpart. For 2026, Lexus will focus on the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine in both the coupe and convertible versions of the LC 500, continuing to offer a more powerful option with 471 horsepower.

Key Takeaways

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The LC 500h hybrid is discontinued in the U.S. for 2026.

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Only 248 hybrid models were sold since 2018.

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The 2026 LC 500 will feature a powerful V8 engine.

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The hybrid offered fewer horsepower compared to V8 models.

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Hybrid models remain available in other markets.

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This decision reflects changing consumer preferences.

"The LC Hybrid isn't completely dead and will still be offered in other markets."

A Lexus spokesperson confirmed the hybrid's discontinuation in the U.S. market.

"Give up more than 100 hp to spend less time at the gas station is a hard sell."

The power disparity made the hybrid less appealing to consumers.

The decision to eliminate the hybrid option appears to stem from a clear preference among buyers for the traditional V8 engine. This trend raises questions about the broader appeal of hybrid vehicles in the luxury market, where performance often takes precedence over fuel efficiency. Lexus's choice signals a shift towards catering to consumer preferences rather than pushing eco-friendly technology, highlighting an ongoing challenge for automakers.