What’s Changing in the Lexus Lineup Over the Next Few Years?
Lexus is shaking up its future lineup, but not in the way you might expect. Instead of going all-in on electric vehicles by 2035, the brand is choosing a more flexible path. That means you’ll see a mix of hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and full EVs—sometimes all within the same model family. Why the change? Lexus is reading the room: customer demand for EVs is growing, but not at the breakneck pace some predicted. According to a 2024 report from the International Energy Agency, global EV sales are up 35% year-over-year, but hybrids remain a strong seller, especially in North America and Asia.
So, what’s actually coming? Lexus is planning a new LFA-inspired electric sports car, a fully electric three-row SUV, and updates to nearly every SUV in its stable. Meanwhile, core sedans like the ES and IS will stick around with hybrid options, and the brand’s first electric SUV, the RZ, is getting a tech-forward facelift. In short, Lexus is betting on variety, not just a single solution.
Will Lexus Really Build an Electric Supercar?
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the LFA. If you’ve ever heard one of those V10s scream, you know why it’s legendary. Lexus wants to capture that magic again—this time, with electrons instead of gasoline. The upcoming electric sports coupe, heavily inspired by the 2021 Lexus Electrified Sport Concept, is expected to debut around 2026. Akio Toyoda, Toyota’s chairman and a notorious driving enthusiast, is reportedly hands-on with the project. That’s a good sign for anyone worried that an electric Lexus might feel sterile.
The concept version boasted some wild numbers: solid-state batteries with a claimed 430-mile range and a 0-62 mph sprint in the low two-second range. Will the production car actually deliver those specs? That’s the million-dollar question. Solid-state batteries are still in the prototype phase for most automakers, but Toyota has been vocal about pushing this tech to market by the late 2020s. If Lexus pulls it off, this coupe could set a new benchmark for electric performance cars.
There’s also speculation about a hybrid sports car, possibly sharing DNA with the next Toyota GR Supra. No official confirmation yet, but the idea of a Lexus-Toyota performance duo is enough to get enthusiasts buzzing.
Are Sedans Like the ES and IS Sticking Around?
Sedans aren’t dead at Lexus—they’re just evolving. The ES, a mainstay in the lineup, is getting a new generation with both hybrid and electric powertrains. The latest version has already launched in China and Europe and should arrive in the US by late 2026. This approach gives buyers more choice, especially in markets where EV infrastructure is still catching up.
The IS sedan is also in transition. The V8-powered IS 500 is bowing out, but hybrid versions are expected to stick around in North America for a bit longer. The current IS is a bit of a dinosaur (it’s been around for 12 years), but rumors suggest a new model is coming in 2026, again with both hybrid and electric options. Meanwhile, the RC and RC F coupes are likely headed for retirement without direct replacements.
As for the flagship LS sedan, Lexus is keeping its cards close to the chest. The current model got a refresh in 2020, but there’s no word yet on what’s next.
What’s Happening With Lexus SUVs—And Is a Three-Row Electric Model Coming?
SUVs are the bread and butter for Lexus, and the next few years will bring big changes. The smallest crossover, the UX, is being “re-engineered” for 2026, and the fully electric version will be discontinued after November 2025. This is a sign that Lexus is carefully watching which models actually move the needle in terms of sales.
The NX and RX—two of the brand’s best-sellers—are due for mid-cycle updates in 2028. Even the rugged GX and LX are getting facelifts. But the real headline is the rumored fully electric three-row SUV, expected to debut in 2027. This model, previewed by the 2021 Lexus Electrified SUV Concept, could offer a zero-emission alternative to the popular TX, which itself is getting a refresh that same year.
Why does this matter? Three-row electric SUVs are a hot commodity. Just look at the buzz around the Kia EV9 and Volvo EX90. If Lexus can deliver the luxury, range, and reliability buyers expect, it could be a game-changer in the segment.
How Is the Lexus RZ Evolving, and What’s Next for Electric Tech?
The RZ, Lexus’s first dedicated EV for North America, is getting a significant update. The latest European version introduces simulated gear shifts and a steer-by-wire system—features designed to make driving more engaging and less “appliance-like.” An F-Sport trim with more power is also on the way for 2026.
These updates show that Lexus isn’t just chasing range numbers; it’s also focused on making EVs fun to drive. That’s a smart move, considering that a recent J.D. Power study found that driving enjoyment is one of the top factors influencing EV adoption among luxury buyers.
What’s the Strategy Behind Lexus’s Hybrid and EV Mix?
Lexus’s strategy boils down to flexibility. By offering hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and EVs side by side, the brand can adapt to shifting regulations, infrastructure, and customer preferences. This is especially important as different regions move toward electrification at different speeds. For example, California and parts of Europe are pushing hard for zero-emission vehicles, while other areas still prefer hybrids for their convenience and range.
This approach also helps Lexus manage supply chain risks. Battery shortages and raw material price swings have hit the auto industry hard in recent years. By not putting all its eggs in the EV basket, Lexus can pivot as needed—without leaving customers in the lurch.
What Should Buyers Expect From Lexus in the Next Few Years?
If you’re shopping for a Lexus in the next three to five years, expect more choices than ever. Whether you want a hybrid sedan, a plug-in SUV, or a cutting-edge electric coupe, there’s likely to be something in the pipeline. The brand’s focus on driving enjoyment, tech upgrades, and real-world usability means you won’t have to compromise on luxury or performance.
The big takeaway? Lexus’s future isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.