Electric or not, the M3 still matters, especially when BMW decides to shake things up. Car enthusiasts haven’t exactly been begging for an all-electric version of the M3, but that hasn’t stopped BMW from building one anyway.

The upcoming EV, currently referred to as the iM3, will be sold alongside the combustion-powered version of the sports sedan. Over the past year, it’s been spotted undergoing testing in multiple locations around the globe. Now, two new prototypes have been caught by our spy photographers, giving us a closer look at some previously unseen details.

Sharp Looks, Familiar Details

One of the camouflaged test cars appears to be wearing production-ready fender flares for the first time. These widened arches are a subtle but important detail, giving the car a broader, more aggressive stance that mirrors the current G80 M3’s proportions. Visually, they make a strong first impression.

Read: BMW’s Electric Super Sedan Could Arrive Sooner Than You Think

This same prototype is also equipped with a set of eye-catching black wheels featuring an intricate spoke design, similar to those of the G80 and the G82 M3. As we’ve seen in the past, it also has a Neue Klasse-inspired front fascia with sleek headlights that flow gracefully into the small faux kidney grilles. There are no coffin grilles in sight.

Similarly, the rear end is radically different than the current six-cylinder model, and thankfully, does not appear as short and stumpy as the weird rear of BMW’s recently unveiled Vision Driving Experience Concept.

Heavyweight Status Confirmed

A second prototype was also spotted, this time fitted with a set of 20-inch Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 tires, sized at 295/35. More interestingly, our photographers also managed to capture a shot of the door badge displaying the car’s VIN and preliminary weight figures.

Four numbers were listed: 2,675 kg (5,897 lbs), 4,475 kg (9,865 lbs), 1,250 kg (2,756 lbs), and 1,475 kg (3,252 lbs). The first figure, 2,675 kg (5,897 lbs), appears to represent the gross vehicle weight or the total allowable weight of the car, including its own mass, passengers, cargo, and fluids. The second figure, 4,475 kg (9,865 lbs), likely refers to the gross combined weight when towing a trailer. The final two numbers specify the maximum axle loads: 1,250 kg (2,756 lbs) at the front and 1,475 kg (3,252 lbs) at the rear.

The number that stands out is the preliminary gross weight of 2,675 kg (5,897 lbs), and how that stacks up against the current ICE-powered M3 Sedan. According to BMW’s spec sheet, the base M3 has a curb weight of 1,780 kg (3,924 lbs) and a maximum permissible weight (presumably equivalent to gross weight) of 2,210 kg (4,872 lbs).

More: The 2025 BMW M5 Weighs 1,000 Lbs More Than Its Predecessor, Is Heavier Than Many F-150s!

That would make the electric M3 prototype at least 465 kg (1,025 lbs) heavier than its gas-powered counterpart, but somewhat surprisingly, possibly lighter than the ICE M5, which has a maximum permissible weight of 2,950 kg (6,504 lbs) and a curb weight of 2,510 kg (5,534 lbs).

However, it’s worth pointing out that the ICE model’s gross weight includes a full tank of fuel and various fluids not needed in an EV. For reference, the ICE M3 also has maximum axle load ratings of 1,080 kg (2,381 lbs) at the front and 1,180 kg (2,601 lbs) at the rear.

The interior of this car was also snapped. However, it has been fitted with several temporary parts, including two displays that won’t make it to the production model. Perhaps the only part visible on this prototype that could make it to production is the intriguing steering wheel.

BMW hasn’t officially announced a launch date, but according to a report, production is expected to begin in March 2027 and continue through October 2034. For now, only a sedan is mentioned, though rumors of a Touring version continue to circulate.

Baldauf

Update: The timeline for the unveiling of the still-unnamed compact Land Cruiser keeps moving, with sources in Japan now indicating a debut in the spring of next year. We’ve also got some new details about the powertrains to share in the updated story below.

Off-roading enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of Toyota’s “baby” Land Cruiser, and while its debut has been pushed back to spring 2026, the anticipation only seems to intensify. Just when you thought the wait couldn’t possibly get any more agonizing, we’ve uncovered a new patent drawing, giving us our clearest look yet at the rugged compact SUV’s exterior.

More: 2026 RAV4’s Evolution Is More Than Meets The Eye

Toyota has been pretty tight-lipped since releasing a single teaser of the model in August 2023. Since then, the rumor mill has been working overtime, especially around the ladder-frame, compact off-roader. Many believe it’s set to revive the FJ Cruiser nameplate, though Toyota hasn’t confirmed anything just yet.

Luckily, this patent drawing gives us something more concrete to chew on. While the patent was filed last year, it’s only just made its way into the public domain. We spruced up the image to improve the quality, but other than that, it’s what Toyota has decided to let us see.

A Sneak Peek at the Design

The new image shows a compact SUV with a five-door configuration and a boxy, utilitarian stance. The profile and overall silhouette closely resemble the official teaser Toyota released, right down to the shape of the LED headlights. Other design elements worth noting are the pronounced front fenders, thick C-pillars, and a rear end that’s almost comically vertical, complete with a full-size spare mounted on the tailgate.

The lower part of the body features unpainted plastic cladding that wraps around the bumpers, fenders, and side skirts, all classic off-road styling cues meant to hint at the SUV’s rugged capabilities. Ground clearance looks to be quite generous as well. While patents often include placeholder wheels, it’s easy to imagine this model outfitted with some serious off-road tires.

A Compact Evolution

Looking at the overall design, it’s clear that this model is a natural evolution of the 2021 Compact Cruiser EV concept, though it’s noticeably larger. Japanese reports suggest the production FJ Cruiser will stretch to around 4,500 mm (177.2 inches) in length, which places it firmly in the compact SUV segment.

Unlike the larger, pricier Land Cruiser 250 and 300 Series that ride on Toyota’s more refined TNGA-F platform, the FJ Cruiser will reportedly ride on the IMV-0 platform. This architecture is expected to be shared with the next-generation Hilux and Fortuner, and will likely feature some significant upgrades compared to the current Hilux Champ.

Ready for the Trail

The FJ Cruiser’s ladder-frame chassis promises to make it an off-roading enthusiast’s dream. This setup should give it a notable edge over unibody competitors like the Ford Bronco Sport, making it a solid choice for anyone who prioritizes off-road performance over city driving comfort.

As for what will be powering this future off-road warrior, there’s a good chance we’ll see the 2.7-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine under the hood in at least some markets. Another contestant is the 2.8-liter turbodiesel, which is already fitted in the Land Cruiser Prado, Hilux, and Fortuner, combined with a mild-hybrid system.

More: 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Gets A Digital Overhaul, But No One Can Buy It

In terms of transmission, the gas-powered version will likely get an six-speed automatic, while the diesel is expected to be mated to an eight-speed automatic. Regardless of the powertrain options, Toyota is expected to keep things authentic with a standard 4WD system, staying true to the legacy of the Land Cruiser family.

While there’s no way to confirm if the patent drawing represents the final production design, it certainly offers an intriguing glimpse of what’s on the horizon. Let’s hope Toyota teases us a bit more before the official launch.

Speaking of the debut, the new model is expected to appear in spring 2026. According to Japan’s Best Car, Toyota originally planned to introduce it this fall, but various issues including its involvement in the certification fraud have caused a delay.

AMG took the the C63 in a new direction in 2022 with the introduction of a plug-in hybrid four-pot, and it’s finally admitted that this road was a dead-end. That’s according to comments from one insider at Mercedes’ performance division, who claims AMG is getting ready to junk the engine in the current C63, which controversially downsized from a V8 to plug-in hybrid inline four.

The exec, who spoke to Autocar on condition on anonymity, said AMG will equip its future combustion-powered models with either the six-cylinder hybrid now deployed in the E53, or a brand new flat-plane crank V8 that’s still in development.

Related: 2026 AMG C63 May Drop 4-Cylinder But Not For What Fans Want

Although the 671 hp (680 PS) 2.0-liter PHEV powertrain launched in 2022 on the C63 S E Performance made over 100 hp (102 PS) more than the twin-turbo V8 it replaced, it drew criticism for its bland character and weight. Moreover, with the C63’s switch to all-wheel drive came more weight, so things weren’t exactly peachy for Merc’s compact sports sedan.

Multiple reports suggested dealers have struggled to sell the models, despite them crushing its BMW M3 rival on paper thanks to the brute muscle of a powertrain that is also used in the GLC63 S E Performance. Both AMG models have a tiny 4.8 kWh battery that gives under 10 miles (16 km) of electric range. 

Cost and Emissions: The Final Straw

But it’s not just buyer apathy that is forcing AMG to axe its punchy M139 PHEV engines. Another reason, Autocar’s Greg Kable learned from the insider, is the high cost of reworking the powerful four-cylinder units to meet upcoming Euro 7 emissions regulations, despite those rules being considerably weaker than originally proposed.

The report suggest other non-hybrid M139 models such as the 416 hp (420 PS) C43 and 375 hp (380 PS) SL 43 would need to find alternative forms of propulsion. As would the Lotus Emira that uses AMG’s mill, though the British brand is already scouting for a V8 engine to drop in that.

Looking Ahead: AMG’s Engine Evolution

Unfortunately for anyone praying for the C63 PHEVs speedy demise and rebirth, this changeover doesn’t sound like it’s going to happen for a while yet. The magazine’s AMG source told it the engine would be retired “eventually,” but the fact that cars must meet Euro 7 standard from late 2026 would seem to give us a rough time frame.

In the meantime, AMG could drop the E53’s 3.0-liter hybrid six-cylinder into the C63 next year. That could improve things, but unless the engine sees a power boost from its current 603 hp (450 kW / 612 PS), it might be a step backward in terms of performance.

Still, there’s hope that AMG’s new flat-plane crank V8 will eventually find a home under the hood of a next-gen C63. But we’re talking a timeline that likely stretches toward the end of the decade, so don’t expect anything too soon.

Aston Martin is on the performance offensive, launching mid-engined supercars, mind-bending hypercars, squeezing extra power out of its big-selling SUV and promising to make more models with manual shifters. And as these images show, it’s also making time to have some fun with the DB12 Volante.

Not that the big convertible that landed in 2023 isn’t exciting to drive – far from it. Although Aston axed the V12 option when it upgraded the DB11 to make the DB12, the AMG-sourced 4.0-liter V8 still cranks out 671 hp (680 PS) and a thumping 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque. Those are better numbers than the old V12 generated, and enough to get the DB12 to 62 mph in 3.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 202 mph (325 km/h).

Related: It’s No Valhalla, But Aston’s DB12 AMR Prototype Knows How To Hustle

But there will always be customers who want a DB12 with a little more bite and are prepared to sacrifice a tiny bit of comfort to get it. The car seen here is by no means a stripped-out trackday special; it’ll still tick the DB12 luxury boxes. But everything from the design to the body control to the straightline performance will be massaged to make it more of an enthusiast’s car.

Bigger aero, stacked exhausts

As with the coupe version of this hot new DB12 we spied a couple of months back, this Volante looks instantly more aggressive thanks to a deeper front spoiler with three square vent holes at either end and a large-scale egg-crate grille. The new DBX S SUV has a similar spoiler with two holes on either side.

We think those changes, plus the lowered ride height that comes with the stiffer suspension, should be easy to spot on the street. But they’re not as obvious as the new exhaust layout which places the tailpipes on top of each other like the on the DBX S, rather than side by side like on the stock DB12.

There’s no chance those pipes will be venting fumes from a V12, though you can still get one of those if you step up to the 824 hp (835 PS) Vanquish Volante that’s built on the same platform. But we can expect Aston to liberate some more horses from the existing V8. For the DBX S, they fitted the engine with turbos from its Valhalla supercar to boost output to 717 hp (727 PS), and although this is just speculation, it would make sense for the hot DB12 to get the same setup.

DB12 S or DB12 AMR?

What could also make sense, given the the shared design cues with the DBX S such as the exhaust and front spoiler, is for Aston to call this the DB12 S. Previously we’d referred to prototypes as DB12 AMR, because the company had until recently used the Aston Martin Racing badge to mark out its performance models.

We’re expecting to see at least one of these DB12 performance variants make its debut before the end of this year, though the launch is likely to be staggered, with the coupe getting the spotlight first. And with Goodwood coming up next month, Aston might choose that as the venue for its unveiling.

Baldauf

It’s two years since Hyundai revealed its epic Ioniq 5 N and three since Kia gave us the first EV6 GT, but only now is Genesis, the Korean conglomerate’s luxury maker, about ready to show us what kind of performance EV it can whip up using the same basic electric building blocks.

The GV60 Magma – Magma being the Genesis brand’s new performance label – is scheduled to make its global debut at next month’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, a year on from the original concept’s reveal at the same location.

Related: This Is The Face Of Genesis’s Fastest Car Yet

While previous spy shots show the production EV won’t look exactly like the concept, new images confirm one element that has definitely made the cut with only subtle changes. That’s the rear spoiler, which was hidden under disguise or just absent on earlier prototypes. Here it’s still covered in camouflage wrap, but the shape is on on full view, revealing horn-like end planes that are even bigger than the concept’s.

As well as being bigger, those end planes are also more vertical, which could be a result of aerodynamic analysis, or simply because Genesis or its customer clinic participants now think they look better this way. Also present is a rear diffuser mounted below the bumper, and the concept’s roof-mounted fins.

These look similar to the ones on a Porsche 911 GT3 RS, a car whose vertical wheelarch wings seem to have inspired the lower parts of the Magma’s arch extensions (though it’s hard to make out on these pictures).

The Magma will probably use the same 84 kWh battery as the Ioniq 5 N and EV6 GT, though considering their unimpressive 200-mile (320 km) real-world range, it would benefit from something bigger. Following a recent EV6 GT update both of those cars make 641 hp (650 PS / 478 kW), but some reports suggest Genesis will push the needle further to cement its position as the performance leader of the group.

We’re also expecting to see the virtual gear shift function that proved such a hit when the 5 N first appeared.

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Europe can’t get enough of the Dacia Sandero. The bargain-basement small hatchback was the best-selling car on the continent in 2024, easily outperforming the second-place Clio from Dacia’s sister brand. The Sandero debuted in 2020 and was updated with its maker’s new corporate identity in 2022, but now looks poised to get another refresh to give it some of the modern, rugged appeal of Dacia’s bigger, more aspirational models.

Yeah, Dacia and aspirational are not two words you’ll often hear in the same sentence, but the brand is on the up, and new models like the facelifted Duster and its Bigster big brother have developed a style that gives buyers a reason to consider a Dacia that goes beyond simply value for money.

Related: Dacia’s Next-Gen Sandero EV Arriving In 2027

The facelifted Sandero you see here won’t stray from that value philosophy, but when it arrives in 2026 it will pair it with some of the design cues that have helped make make its SUV siblings so popular – the new Duster was the ninth best-selling vehicle in Europe last year, outselling models like the VW Tiguan and Peugeot 2008.

Chief among the changes heading the Sandero’s way include new headlights that are the same overall shape as the old ones, but have a fresh DRL signature, chunky new mesh patterns for both the upper and lower grilles, and a new style of bumper with revised side air intakes. It’s the same story at the rear, where new lights and bumpers will mark out the updated car.

So we’re not talking radical changes, but there’s wisdom in that old ‘if it ain’t broke’ maxim. Where Dacia might decide to fix it anyway is on the inside. When our spy photographers spotted a prototype of the off-road-styled Sandero Stepway earlier this year, we noted that the touchscreen display appeared to be larger. But this being a Dacia, entry-level versions of the new Sandero could still come with no screen at all to keep prices low – the current model starts at just £14,715 in the UK.

The Sandero isn’t the only older Dacia in line for a Duster-inspired makeover. The company’s Jogger wagon has also been seen testing with similar visual upgrades, and some sources have suggested the tweaked Sandero could get a hybrid powertrain option, something already available on the Jogger. But Dacia might choose to save its efforts because an all-new Sandero, this time with available EV power, is due in 2027.

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The world has been waiting years for Lexus to launch a successor to the LFA, and the car is edging closer to production. The new supercar, currently known as the LFR, will be a road-going version of the GT3 racer also in the works, conceived as a replacement for the RC F GT3.

A few days ago, automotive scribe Jonny Lieberman spotted a camouflaged LFR prototype testing on LA’s famous Angeles Crest Highway. It was filmed trailing a first-gen Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S and sandwiched between a pair of Toyota Sequoias. While we can understand why Lexus’ engineers chose one of California’s finest driving roads to test out the LFR, this ribbon of pavement is frequented by car enthusiasts, so the prototype was bound to be spotted by someone.

Read: New Lexus LFR Supercar Reveals Interior And Confirms V8 Hybrid Powertrain

The prototype resembles others seen overseas. The similarities to the Toyota GR GT3 Concept from a few years back are obvious, particularly in the elongated hood, short rear end, and large air vents. Interestingly, while other prototypes tested at the Nurburgring last year had fixed rear wings, this one doesn’t have one, just a small lip spoiler.

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It’s not just the idea of a new halo car from Lexus that is getting us excited, but also the fact that the luxury brand has resisted the urge to downsize and fit the car with a small-capacity engine. Instead, it will utilize a new twin-turbocharged V8 that Toyota has been working on for several years for its new GT3 race car. This powerplant may not have quite the same sonorous soundtrack as Lexus’s current 5.0-liter naturally-aspirated V8, nor match the unique V10 of the LFA, but it should easily out-muscle both of them.

Supplementing the twin-turbo V8 will be an electric motor, likely positioned at the front axle. Combined power could set around the 800 hp mark, roughly in line with the current AMG GT 63 S E Performance it is being benchmarked against. Specifics are still under wraps, but we expect them to learn more as development continues; besides, we bet Lexus will want to build a hype around the vaunted LFA’s successor, so we expect teasers to start coming out sooner or later.

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Update: Jeep is still playing the slow-drip teaser game with the 2026 Cherokee, aiming to build interest ahead of the full reveal expected in the coming months. This time around, we get a look at the rear three-quarters of the SUV, along with a profile shot, courtesy of a new video that shows the outgoing Cherokee transforming into the new one.

Also: Jeep’s 2026 Cherokee Just Gave Away Its Interior And More

The rear end carries over the squared-off design theme from the front, with the taillights and license plate area framed by what appears to be piano black trim surrounds and inserts. There’s a hint of Land Rover Discovery in the overall shape, though the taillight assembly with its surround might also evoke the third-generation European-market Honda Accord – an unexpected comparison, but not completely off the mark.

And, in case you were holding your breath for a name change, don’t bother. Despite some rumors suggesting the brand might drop “Cherokee” in favor of a new nameplate as a mark of respect to the Cherokee Nation, the brand is sticking with the original. Looks like that debate is settled.

More: Forgotten Jeep Reimagined For 2027 And Now We Kind Of Want It Back

While the camouflaged prototypes gave us a solid idea, the official press photos reveal that the new Cherokee takes a more traditional Jeep approach, moving away from the swoopier design of its 2023 predecessor. Instead, it embraces a boxier look, with a front end that shares styling cues with the upcoming electric Recon 4xe, all while staying true to what Jeep fans expect.

“The all-new Jeep Cherokee headlines our efforts to deliver more product, innovation, choice and standard content to customers than ever before,” said Bob Broderdorf, Jeep CEO. “Jeep Cherokee will boast competitive pricing that strikes at the core of the largest vehicle segment and sits perfectly between Jeep Compass and Jeep Grand Cherokee to bolster our winning mainstream line up.”

In addition to confirming its name, Jeep revealed that the mid-size SUV will debut with a “new, efficient, and powerful hybrid propulsion option.” That said, we could see traditional internal combustion engines and, eventually, an all-electric variant joining the lineup, as the STLA-Large platform supports all types of powertrains.

For more on the new Cherokee, check out our original story below, where you can also get a glimpse of our exclusive interior shots.

John Halas contributed to this report.

Jeep’s lineup has filled out over the past couple of years with the addition of the luxury Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer and all-electric Wagoneer S, which is soon to be joined by the also-electric Recon. But potentially more important than all of them is the 2026 Cherokee, and new spy pics reveal the face and interior for the first time.

Compared with previous prototypes, this one has stripped away much of the front-end disguise, giving us a look at a grille that’s like a mashup of several other Jeep grilles. The five visible vertical grille sections (two are still hidden) are taller than the ones on the Grand Cherokee and seem to stand more proud of the body. But they also don’t have the a piece of trim above them to display the model name like the Wagoneers do.

Related: Here’s What We Know About Jeep’s 2026 Cherokee

But even if it did have a bit of trim with the name on, what would it say? We’re calling this SUV the Cherokee because it’s effectively a replacement for the Cherokee that bowed out in 2023, and will nestle below the Grand Cherokee in the Jeep lineup. But some reports say Jeep will move away from the name it’s used for decades as a mark of respect Cherokee Nation.

Whatever it’s called, this new Cherokee’s dashboard design has more in common with the Wagoneer S EV than it does the existing Grand Cherokee. These first ever interior pics of the Ford Bronco Sport rival show a large digital instrument cluster and a central touchscreen that’s mounted at an angle, just above a bank of touch-sensitive buttons for the climate control.

It’s good to see drivers won’t have to dive into the infotainment to change the temperature, and the switches do look great, but physical push-buttons would be even better. Further down the console is what looks like a rotary controller for the transmission and a toggle to move between the driver modes. The passenger side of this prototype is covered with cloth disguise but it’s possible Jeep could offer a third screen above the glovebox, as it does on the Wagoneer S.

Housed between the shock towers of Stellantis STLA Large platform you’ll find the Cherokee’s first ever hybrid powertrain options, and later, an all-electric variant. Leaked documents suggest production is scheduled to begin this fall for the 2026 model year and we’re sure to find out more – including the name – in the months leading up to that debut.

Images: Baldauf

BMW’s upcoming all-electric 3-Series, known as the i3 (no relation to the oddball 2013 hatchback of the same name), is set to arrive next year. New insider information hints that the lineup will be broader than expected, with several variants in the pipeline. Among them is the flagship iM3, a high-performance electric M3 that could pack over 700 horsepower.

While some automakers have been forced to rethink their EV strategy, BMW is going all-in. Starting with the iM3, it will reportedly begin production in March 2027, continuing through October 2034. This timeline comes from BimmerPost user ‘ynguldyn‘, a well-known BMW insider with a solid track record for accurate leaks.

Unlike the current gas-powered M3, which is offered in several different guises, including the base model, the M3 Performance, the first-ever M3 Touring, and the M3 CS, just a single version of the iM3 has been confirmed at this stage.

Read: BMW Vision Vehicle Is Our Best Look Yet At The iM3 Neue Klasse

Unfortunately, powertrain details remain a mystery and may not be known until a few months the car is launched. It’s been suggested that it could have as many as four electric motors, allowing for the use of complex torque vectoring.

The iM3 will also be one of BMW’s first production models to use its new natural fiber material. Announced last week, the natural fiber composite has been developed alongside a Swiss firm and is derived from flax seeds. It’s designed to be just as strong as carbon fiber, but with 40% fewer CO2 emissions required for its manufacture. It could be used on the car’s bucket seats and other trims. There will also be a head-up display as standard and a panoramic sunroof.

What About The Non-M i3s?

Beyond the iM3, the standard i3 lineup is expected to enter production in July 2026, running alongside the flagship until October 2034. Several versions are reportedly on the table, including i3 20, 40, 40 xDrive, 50, 50 xDrive, and the M60 xDrive. The M60 model is scheduled to arrive in March 2027.

Technical specifications remain under wraps, but key features could include similar multi-function seats from the 5-Series, a panoramic glass sunroof as standard, optional highway driving assistant, and a choice of 19-, 20-, and 21-inch wheels. The M60 xDrive will also sport an adaptive M suspension, M brakes, an M steering wheel, and other sporty features.

Even in an industry increasingly ruled by electrification and downsizing, the allure of a naturally aspirated V8 still manages to hold its ground, if only for a little while longer. Lexus is continuing its farewell tour for the engine that helped shape its performance identity with new limited-run editions that mark the end of an era.

Lexus recently introduced the RC F Final Edition and IS 500 Climax Edition in Japan, both swan songs for the brand’s non-electrified V8 lineup. Now, according to a report out of Japan, the V8-powered LC 500 is next in line for retirement. But before it leaves, Lexus reportedly plans to send it off with a special edition.

While the company hasn’t confirmed anything publicly, Japanese publication Creative Trend reports that production of the LC 500, on sale since 2017, is soon coming to an end. A limited-run model, reportedly called the Pinnacle Edition, will serve as the V8’sfinal chapter in Japan. No production timeline has been shared yet, but the edition will arrive before the model bows out entirely.

Design Details and Color Combos

Styling changes will be modest but distinctive. The Pinnacle Edition is expected to include 21-inch forged alloy wheels, red brake calipers, and a carbon fiber rear spoiler. The Coupe will be offered in a new Matte Silver finish, while the Convertible will pair Neutrino Gray paint with a Sand Beige fabric roof.

More: The Last V8 Lexus Sports Sedan Marks The End Of An Era

According to the same report, the Pinnacle Edition of the LC will feature semi-aniline genuine leather upholstery and carbon fiber scuff plates inside. Color themes will differ by body style, with the Coupe receiving a Black and White treatment and the Convertible finished in Saddle Tan and White. Standard equipment should include a color head-up display and the Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System, along with a variety of additional upscale features.

The naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 will carry on unchanged, producing 471 hp (351 kW / 477 PS) and 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque. Power will still be delivered exclusively through a 10-speed automatic transmission. While no major chassis upgrades have been mentioned, the Pinnacle Edition will reportedly include newly designed door striker plates, which Lexus claims will marginally improve rigidity.

Pricing and Lottery System

According to the same report, production will be capped at 100 units each for the Coupe and Convertible versions, all designated for the Japanese market. Buyers will be selected through a lottery system, with half the allocation set aside for existing Lexus owners. First deliveries are expected sometime in late 2025.

More: Lexus Could Get Its Own Version Of Toyota GR’s Next Sports Coupe

Pricing for the LC 500 Pinnacle Edition is expected to start at around ¥16 million (approximately $109,000) for the Coupe and ¥16.5 million ($112,400) for the Convertible. For reference, the standard LC 500 starts at ¥14.88 million ($101,400) and ¥15.5 million ($105,600), respectively.

Lexus is expected to formally reveal the Japan-exclusive special edition on June 26. We’ll update with official images and full specs once they’re released. It’s still unclear whether a similar special edition will be offered in North America for the 2026 model year, which could mark the final production year for the LC 500. The future of the LC 500h, with its 3.5-liter hybrid V6, also remains uncertain at this stage.

The LC (short for “Luxury Coupe”) first launched in 2017, following its debut as a concept car in 2012. While it shares a production line with the halo-tier LFA at the Motomachi plant in Japan, it was never intended as a direct successor to the V10-powered supercar. Instead, the LC carved out its place as Lexus’ flagship grand tourer, blending sharp design with long-distance comfort.

Rumors suggest a replacement model could arrive later this decade, possibly built on the same platform as the next-generation Toyota GR Supra.

Note: All photos in this story show the standard 2025MY Lexus LC, not the unreleased special edition.