It turns out that given the choice of naturally aspirated V8 power or a fuel-sipping hybrid V6, buyers of luxury grand tourers with six-figure pricing choose the former.

For that reason, Lexus is dropping the LC 500h coupe and convertible.

“Due to low demand for the hybrid version, the LC hybrid is not offered in Canada for the 2026 model year,” a spokesperson for Toyota Canada told this blog.

So, for 2026, the LC coupe and convertible twins will solely be available as the LC 500.

The naturally aspirated 5-litre V8 motor in the LC 500 produces 471 hp at 7,100 rpm and 398 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm.

Power is sent to the rear wheels via a direct shift 10-speed automatic transmission.

The coupe manages a zero to 100 km/h sprint in 4.4 seconds and the convertible manages the feat in 4.6 seconds, Lexus Canada said.

The now-discontinued hybrid LC 500h cars had a total system output of 354 hp.

While it’s no hybrid, the V8 is no gas guzzler either with Lexus pointing out the coupe manages a highway fuel economy of 9.8 L/100 km.

Inspiration Series convertible

Lexus is introducing limited edition Inspiration Series trims to both the coupe and convertible.

The LC 500 Convertible Inspiration Series is limited to just 350 cars in North America, including 29 in Canada.

This version gets a the Wind colour, which is new to the LC models, with blacked out exterior elements, including the grille, headlight, taillight and rocker garnishes, outside mirrors, front bumper canards and 21-inch forged alloy wheels. The top is brown and silver.

The inside gets saddle tan and white semi-aniline leather seats and unique centre console badging.

Inspiration Series coupe

The LC 500 Coupe Inspiration Series (pictured up top) is even more limited with just 200 units planned for North America. No specific limit was given for Canada.

This car comes with the Smoke Matte Gray colour, which is also new to the LC, along with blacked out exterior elements and carbon fibre esthetic enhancements.

The interior gets a white and black interior treatment.

The Inspiration Series cars also have several other high-end elements, such as special scuff plates, a Mark Levinson sound system, upper body heating on the convertible and more.

Bespoke Build

Buyers of the LC coupe or convertible also have the Bespoke Build option, which allows them to configure their vehicle, with available options of different wheels, spoiler, roof, interior/exterior trim and colours and more.

Bespoke Build cars also get a unique interior badge and a certificate of authenticity printed on Japanese washi paper and signed by LC chief engineer Yasushi Muto, and Lexus Canada director Martin Gilbert.

The 2026 LC 500 coupe and convertible are expected to go on sale in Canada soon. Pricing has not been announced yet.

For updates visit the Lexus Canada website.

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