Is Lexus getting rid of V8?
Yes. Lexus is largely moving away from V8 engines in its mainstream lineup, favoring V6 turbocharged and electrified powertrains; only a few high-performance or niche models retain a V8 for now.
The shift is part of a broader industry push toward greater efficiency and electrification. This article examines Lexus’s current stance, which models still use V8 power, and what buyers can expect in the near term.
Lexus's stated direction on V8 engines
Executive statements and the brand’s product strategy point to a gradual reduction of V8 usage across its lineup.
- The core focus is shifting toward hybrids and turbocharged V6 powertrains for most future models.
- V8 engines are expected to become rare outside of high-performance or limited-edition variants.
- There is no fixed deadline announced to end V8 production entirely; the transition is gradual and market-dependent.
Conclusion: Lexus is treating the V8 as an increasingly exclusive feature rather than a standard offering.
Which models still use a V8 today?
As of the latest model years, only a small portion of Lexus models carry a V8, with the rest moving toward V6/hybrid configurations.
- LC 500 – 5.0L V8 remains available in many markets; future generations are likely to explore V6/hybrid options.
- RC F – 5.0L V8 remains on offer; future developments could shift to a V6 hybrid or other powertrains.
Conclusion: The LC 500 and RC F stand as the primary V8-equipped models for now, while the broader lineup trends toward V6 and electrified powertrains.
What is driving the shift?
Environmental standards, fuel economy goals, and electrification plans are the main catalysts behind Lexus’s engine strategy.
- Regulatory pressure and consumer demand push toward cleaner, more efficient drivetrains.
- Hybrid and turbocharged V6 platforms can deliver strong performance with better efficiency than many V8s.
- Lexus and Toyota’s broader electrification roadmap influences engine choices across markets.
Conclusion: The move toward V6 hybrids and electrified powertrains is likely to continue, reducing the role of V8 engines over time.
Near-term outlook for buyers
What buyers should know in the coming years:
- Most new Lexus models will offer V6 turbo or hybrid options as standard or widely available choices.
- V8 availability will be limited to a small subset of models, typically niche or special-edition variants.
- Existing V8 models will remain on sale for current model years, but future generations may switch to V6/hybrid powertrains.
Conclusion: Enthusiasts who prize V8 sound and performance may need to act sooner, while general buyers will benefit from the efficiency and modernity of hybrids and electrified engines.
Summary and outlook
In short, Lexus is retreating from broad V8 usage and moving toward V6 and electrified powertrains. The brand has signaled a gradual reduction in V8 availability across its lineup, with only a few high-performance or legacy models retaining the engine in the near term. The exact timing and scope will continue to depend on market conditions and regulatory factors, but the trend toward electrification is clear.
Final takeaway: A future with fewer V8 options is likely for Lexus, as the company prioritizes efficiency and electrification while keeping a small set of V8 offerings for performance-oriented models.
