Lexus is the only remaining Japanese car brand that still offers V8-powered vehicles in its lineup. The brand introduced its first V8 model, the SC430, when it launched in Japan two decades ago. As the era of Japanese V8-powered cars concludes, it's time to compile a list of every V8-powered Lexus model released since the brand's arrival in Japan.
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| 2026 Lexus LC500 Pinnacle |
SC430 (2005-2010) - The SC430 was one of the first three Lexus models introduced in Japan when the brand launched in its home market in 2005. It replaced the fourth-generation Soarer, while still utilizing the same 4.3 L 3UZ-FE V8 engine paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. Production of the SC ended in 2010.
IS F (2007-2013) - The IS F is the first of Lexus's high-performance F sub-brand, which is made to target the likes of Mercedes-AMG, BMW M, and Audi RS. Based on the second-generation IS, it was powered by a 5.0L direct-injected 2UR-GSE V8 engine producing 423PS of power and 503Nm of torque. It was mated with an 8-speed paddle shift transmission.
LS (4th Generation, 2006-2017) - Launched in Japan in 2006, the Lexus LS serves as the replacement for the Toyota Celsior, and it was the only Lexus luxury saloon in its fleet to have a V8 engine until the arrival of the IS F a year later. The LS460 is powered by a 4.6L V8 (1UR-FSE) engine mated with an 8-speed automatic gearbox, while the LS600h range features a 2UR-FSE (5.0L V8) engine and 1KM electric motor mated to a CVT with Manual Mode. This is the last generation of the Lexus LS to have a V8 engine in it, as the fifth-generation model is powered by a V6 engine.
RC F (2014-2025) - The RC F serves as the successor to the legendary IS F and represents Japan's answer to the BMW M4, offering comparable performance to its German rivals. Under the hood, the RC F is equipped with a 5.0L V8 engine, derived from the IS F, which has been updated to produce 477 PS of power and 530 Nm of torque. It is paired with an 8-speed SPDS transmission.
The 2020MY facelift Lexus RC F, particularly in its Track Edition (known as the Performance Package in Japan), features a slightly enhanced version of the 5.0L V8 engine. This version has been boosted by 5 horsepower and 8 Nm of torque, thanks to a revised intake routing and a lower RPM trigger for the secondary intake opening.
While the standard RC F may not have extensive lightweight materials, the Track Edition (Performance Package) variant benefits from several weight-saving measures. It includes a fixed rear wing, a carbon fiber bonnet, roof, and other aerodynamic components, along with Brembo carbon ceramic brakes and a titanium muffler and tailpipe. As a result, this variant loses between 70 to 80 kg in weight.
Such extensive lightweight work made this variant go from 0-100kph in four seconds, half a second quicker than the pre-facelifted RC F.
With production of the RC range ending this late 2025, the FINAL EDITION was unveiled.
GS F (2015-2018) - The GS F, based on the facelifted third-generation Lexus GS, is the only GS to have a V8 power in it in the form of the all-familiar 5.0L V8 engine sourced from the RC F. The V8 engine produces 477PS of power and 530Nm of torque, mated with an 8-speed SPDS. Fuel consumption is around 8.2 km/L.
LX (2015-2021) - The LX is a full-size luxury off-roader based on the Land Cruiser 200 series. It is powered by a 3UR-FE 5.7L V8 engine that produces 377 PS of power and 534 Nm of torque, with a fuel consumption of 6.5 km/L. The LX comes standard with an 8-speed Super ECT gearbox.
LC (2017-2025) - The design of the Lexus LC is heavily inspired by the LF-LC Concept and marks the brand's first use of Toyota's TNGA platform. It is powered by a 5.0L naturally aspirated V8 engine producing 472 horsepower, paired with a Lexus-first 10-speed automatic transmission. The LC is available as both a coupe and an open-top convertible.
The Lexus LC was the last vehicle from the brand to compete in the Super GT's GT500 class before being replaced by the Toyota GR Supra for the 2020 season. During its three-season stint from 2017 to 2019, the LC 500 became a two-time champion, with the #37 KeePer TOM'S and the #6 WAKO'S 4CR teams securing the titles.
As production of the LC comes to an end, the final model, named PINNACLE, has been unveiled. This special edition will be available in both coupe and convertible variants, with only 100 units of each being produced. A lottery system will be implemented for potential buyers.
Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance - When the third-generation Lexus IS range received a facelift for the 2021 model year, it became the most attractive IS ever produced. This made it the perfect time for Lexus to introduce its flagship model, the Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance. Powered by a 5.0L naturally aspirated V8 engine, it produces 480 PS, making it the most powerful naturally aspirated V8-powered Lexus to date. The engine is paired with a familiar 8-speed automatic transmission.
As production of the Lexus IS lineup, along with its RC counterpart, comes to an end in November 2025, the IS 500 F Sport Performance Climax Edition was unveiled. All 500 units of this limited edition have already sold out.
Special Lexus models, such as the Lexus RC F Final Edition, the IS500 Climax Edition, and the LC500 Pinnacle, serve as poignant reminders that the era of Japanese-made V8 cars is coming to a bittersweet close. As their time in this uncertain world approaches its climax, we can take comfort in knowing that these vehicles are among the greatest ever produced in Japan, marking the end of an era for V8 sports cars from the Land of the Rising Sun. While this reality may seem harsh, it reflects the new normal we face. Nevertheless, their legacies will always remain in our hearts and minds.
Two decades of Lexus in Japan, and here we are, witnessing the end of an era where Japan made awesome V8-powered cars like the Lexus RC, the Lexus IS 500, and the Lexus LC 500, among others.
Domo Arigato, Japanese V8 cars. You made us proud.
