Are we about to lose another V8 sports car?

The Lexus LC grand tourer appears to be nearing the end of its production run, according to new reports from Japan.

Following earlier claims that the LC and the smaller RC would be replaced by a single model, a fresh report suggests the LC will conclude its journey with a special “Pinnacle” edition slated for 2026. This would mark the end of Lexus’ iconic naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine, which currently powers the LC500, IS500 sedan, and RC F coupe.

Production of the LC500 and LC500h coupes, as well as the LC500 convertible, is expected to wrap up after the IS500 concludes in November 2025. The Pinnacle edition will reportedly be announced on June 26 and sold exclusively in the Japanese market via a lottery system.

The final edition LC500 coupe is said to feature a matte silver exterior, black-and-white interior, and 21-inch forged aluminum wheels with red brake calipers. Additional features will include a carbon-fibre rear spoiler, scuff plates, and a luxurious mix of semi-aniline leather and Alcantara inside.

For the convertible, reports point to a Neutrino Grey paint finish with a sand beige roof and a saddle tan and white interior. It will share the coupe’s wheels, brakes, spoiler, and scuff plates.

Apart from cosmetic details like brake caliper colors and paint options, no major updates are expected for 2026. The LC will not receive Lexus’ latest 14-inch infotainment touchscreen, a feature introduced in other models.

The last update to the LC occurred in 2023, adding connected services, a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and updated safety tech.

Long-term plans for Lexus’ flagship coupe remain uncertain. In 2021, the brand teased a convertible that resembled a next-generation LC and revealed the Electrified Sport Concept, pointing to an electric performance model. More recently, speculation has focused on a potential new flagship supercar dubbed the LFR—rumored to be powered by a twin-turbo V8 and built on a platform inspired by Toyota’s GT3 GR concept, intended as a spiritual successor to the legendary LFA.

Despite its low production volumes, the LC continues to hold its ground in the luxury grand tourer segment, outselling rivals such as the BMW 8 Series and Mercedes-AMG SL in some markets. Lexus has delivered 29 LCs in Australia so far this year, exceeding the totals for the LS sedan and coming close to the brand’s new electric SUV.

Originally introduced in 2017, the LC represented a return to the luxury coupe segment for Lexus. It followed the SC430, which had exited production several years earlier. The LC was also notable for adopting the prestigious ‘L’ prefix, historically reserved for Lexus’ flagship sedan (LS) and SUV (LX), although it’s now used more broadly across the brand’s lineup.

While the LC’s journey may be coming to a close, its legacy as a beautifully engineered, naturally aspirated performance grand tourer will remain. The Pinnacle edition aims to send it off in style.

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