When did Lexus stop making the SC?

The Lexus SC was discontinued after the 2010 model year.

The SC nameplate spanned two generations—from a late-1990s first generation (SC 300/SC 400) to a 2000s second generation (SC 430)—and the line ended in 2010. Since then, Lexus has not offered a direct SC replacement, instead pursuing other models and platforms to cover the luxury grand-touring niche. This article traces the timeline, the rationale behind the decision, and the legacy of the SC.

Timeline of the SC generations

To frame the production run, here is a concise look at each generation’s years on sale.

• First generation: SC 300 / SC 400 — produced 1992–2000 model years; introduced in 1992 as Lexus' first dedicated sport coupe.


• Second generation: SC 430 — produced 2002–2010 model years; debuted around 2001/2002 and continued until the line ended in 2010.

In short, the SC line spanned two generations and concluded with the 2010 model year, leaving Lexus without a direct SC successor.

Reasons for discontinuation

Several factors influenced the decision to end the SC: market demand for a two-seat luxury coupe waned, development and production costs remained high for a relatively niche product, and Lexus shifted resources toward broader lineup updates and new platforms.

• Low sales volumes relative to the overall Lexus lineup.


• A market shift toward larger grand tourers, SUVs, and crossovers over two-seat coupes.


• Resource reallocation toward other models (such as the LC, LS, and RC) and future electrified platforms.


• A preference for streamlined naming and product strategy across the global lineup.

With these factors, Lexus concluded the SC program after the 2010 model year; the brand has since leaned on other coupes and the LC for grand-touring appeal.

Legacy and what followed

Spiritual successor

While the SC nameplate is no longer in production, the Lexus LC—introduced in the late 2010s as a high-end two-door grand tourer—is widely considered its spiritual successor, carrying forward the luxury, comfort, and performance ethos in a newer platform.

Current status

As of 2025, Lexus has not revived the SC badge. The automaker continues to offer a range of luxury models, with the LC serving as the closest modern analogue to the SC’s grand-tourer role.

Summary

The SC line ran from the early 1990s through 2010, ending with the SC 430. There has been no direct SC revival, and Lexus has instead pursued other nameplates and the LC as a contemporary interpretation of the two-seat grand-touring concept. For enthusiasts, the SC remains a distinctive chapter in Lexus' early foray into dedicated sport coupes.

Why did Lexus discontinue the SC?

Lexus discontinued the SC primarily due to declining sales and a lack of updates, particularly with the SC 430, which was seen as outdated compared to its competitors. The model's reputation as a luxury cruiser rather than a true sports car also contributed to its poor reception and subsequent discontinuation in 2010.
 
Key reasons for discontinuation

• Declining sales: Sales of the SC 430 had been steadily decreasing for years. After a peak in 2002, sales dropped significantly, with the final year of production seeing only around 1,000 units sold. 
• Outdated design and platform: The SC 430 was largely unchanged for its entire production run, making it feel outdated as automotive technology and design evolved. While it was updated with a new transmission and suspension in 2006, this wasn't enough to revive its appeal. 
• Poor market positioning: Despite its luxury features and comfortable ride, the SC 430 was often criticized for being a "luxury convertible" rather than a true sports car, leading to poor performance comparisons with competitors like the Porsche 911 and Mercedes SL500. 
• Lack of a compelling update: Lexus's initial plans for a new-generation SC were canceled, further cementing the fate of the existing model. The brand also had a new focus on its "L-finesse" design philosophy, which the SC 430 did not fit into, and was instead shifting its attention to other new models like the LFA supercar and the CT 200h hatchback. 

What does SC mean in Lexus?

Lexus SC stands for Sports Coupe. It was Lexus's designation for its luxury coupe and convertible models, which were introduced to target the mid-size luxury coupe market. 

• Meaning: The letters directly correspond to "Sports Coupe". 
• Purpose: The model was created to compete in the luxury sports coupe segment. 
• Notable models: The SC line included models like the SC 300, SC 400, and later the SC 430. 

When was the Lexus SC 430 discontinued?

The last Lexus SC 430 was made in 2010. Production of the second-generation SC 430 concluded in July 2010.
 
This video reviews the 2010 Lexus SC430: 11sMy Old CarYouTube · Jun 3, 2023

• The Lexus SC 430 was manufactured from 2001 until 2010. 
• While production ended in 2010, the 2010 model year is the last one to be produced. 
• The 2010 model year was also the last year a new car with a cassette deck was sold in the United States. 

This video provides a review and what to look for when buying a 2001-2012 Lexus SC430: 59sMiguel's GarageYouTube · Nov 17, 2024

What was the last year of the Lexus SC?

The last year for the Lexus SC was 2010. It was a luxury two-door coupe/convertible and its production officially ended in July 2010, with the final model being the SC 430.
 

• The last model produced was the SC 430, which had a 4.3L4.3 cap L4.3𝐿 V8 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. 
• For its final model year, the SC 430 featured a refreshed look with new wheels and standard features like real wood and leather. 
• The 2010 SC 430 also updated its navigation and stereo systems and was the last new car sold in the US to still offer a standard cassette player.