Recalls are an inevitable part of the modern automotive industry—a reflection of manufacturers’ commitment to safety, but also a source of frustration for owners. Some drivers ignore recall notices for years. Others, like one Lexus RX owner in New York, take a far more aggressive approach—filing a lawsuit before even confirming whether their vehicle is actually included.
In early February, Toyota issued a recall for certain 2025 Toyota Camry, 2025 Lexus NX, and 2024–2025 Lexus RX models. The campaign, affecting roughly 41,000 vehicles, addresses a potentially defective second-row seat belt that may have been damaged during manufacturing. Toyota estimates the defect exists in fewer than one percent of recalled vehicles, and any confirmed faulty seat belt will be replaced at no cost.
That wasn’t enough reassurance for plaintiff Mark M., who claims Toyota owes him compensation for “hours of his time,” “a vehicle that has been devalued,” and “the cost to transport himself and his defective class vehicle” to a certified service center. His legal complaint also argues that the remedy—a complete seat belt replacement for affected vehicles—is insufficient, insisting the car’s value would remain diminished even after repair.
However, there’s one glaring issue with the case so far: it’s unclear whether Mark’s Lexus RX is even part of the recall. Toyota’s legal team has asked the court to dismiss the lawsuit, pointing out that the plaintiff never alleged facts confirming his vehicle’s inclusion. The automaker noted that identifying affected vehicles is straightforward—owners can check by entering their VIN or license plate on Toyota’s recall lookup tool.
For now, the future of the case is uncertain. Toyota awaits a ruling on its motion to dismiss, while the legal standoff underscores a curious reality of the recall process—sometimes, the legal drama begins before the repairs do.
As Lexus accelerates into the electrified era, the 2026 RZ emerges not just as an evolution of the brand’s first global BEV, but as a confident leap forward in performance, luxury, and electric sophistication. With a revamped powertrain, extended range options, sharper dynamics, and a bold new flagship variant, the RZ cements its place as a true contender in the premium EV crossover segment.
Performance Reimagined: Meet the 550e F SPORT AWD
Headlining the 2026 refresh is the new RZ 550e F SPORT AWD, a performance-oriented addition that dials Lexus’ electric ambition to eleven. With 408 system horsepower, this is the most powerful RZ ever, and it arrives with specially tuned suspension, enhanced damping, and sport-calibrated springs that promise both comfort and control.
But Lexus doesn’t stop there. The 550e introduces an innovative M Mode, allowing drivers to experience virtual gear shifts via paddle shifters—a rare feature in the EV world. Thanks to a virtual 8-speed setup and responsive torque mapping, the RZ delivers an engaging, almost analog experience, enhanced further by simulated engine and exhaust notes and a shift guide in the digital cluster. It’s an EV engineered not just to move, but to move the driver.
Fast Charging, Longer Range, Less Waiting
Efficiency and convenience see a major upgrade for 2026. The RZ now supports the North American Charging Standard (NACS), giving owners access to thousands of high-speed DC fast chargers nationwide. A beefed-up 11-kW onboard AC charger also slashes home charging times compared to the previous 7-kW unit.
Under ideal conditions, the RZ can replenish from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes using DC fast charging. Range sees a boost as well:
RZ 350e FWD: Up to 302 miles
RZ 450e AWD: Up to 261 miles
RZ 550e F SPORT AWD (20-inch wheels): Up to 228 miles
While the F SPORT model sacrifices a bit of range for power, the performance gains are sure to appeal to EV enthusiasts looking for more than just quiet cruising.
Powertrain Precision: Lexus Refines DIRECT4 AWD
At the core of the RZ’s updated dynamics lies a reworked version of DIRECT4, Lexus’ all-wheel-drive torque distribution system. Borrowed from the RX but tuned for EV application, DIRECT4 now adjusts torque split in real time—between 60:40 and 0:100 during straight-line acceleration and 80:20 to 0:100 during cornering. This allows for enhanced grip, stability, and a more planted feel in both spirited and everyday driving.
In Range mode, the system holds a 50:50 split to optimize efficiency—proof that Lexus hasn’t forgotten the practical side of electrification.
Design That Dares: Enter the Wind
Aesthetics take a bold step with the debut of Wind, a new exclusive hue for the F SPORT. This solid light gray with a subtle metallic sheen pairs strikingly with black accents, giving the RZ a confident, futuristic edge. The rest of the lineup doesn’t skimp on flair either—buyers can choose from seven monotone and four bi-tone color combinations, ensuring their RZ stands out as much as it stands up to the competition.
Electrified, Elevated, Evolved
From its innovative paddle-shifted performance to its faster charging and refined ride, the 2026 Lexus RZ demonstrates how far Lexus has come in just a few short years of electrification. It’s not just an electric Lexus—it’s a Lexus because it’s electric, combining tech, luxury, and driver engagement in a way that few rivals in the segment can match.
Whether you’re new to EVs or upgrading from a hybrid past, the new RZ lineup—especially the thrilling 550e F SPORT AWD—makes a compelling case for electrification with emotion.
Just days after Lexus revealed the 2026 model year update for North America’s LC lineup, the Japanese automaker has quietly introduced a new, potentially final chapter for its flagship grand tourer—exclusive to its home market. Enter the Lexus LC500 Pinnacle Edition, a limited-run special that may serve as a celebratory send-off for one of the brand’s most striking and soulful vehicles.
A Grand Finale?
First teased as a concept back in 2012 and brought to production in 2016, the LC has been a showcase of Lexus’ commitment to design, craftsmanship, and V8 performance. Nearly a decade into its run, the new Pinnacle Edition is described by Lexus as representing the “summit” of the model line. While the automaker has yet to confirm a production end date, this new edition carries the weight and presence of a farewell model.
Exclusive to Japan
The LC500 Pinnacle Edition will be sold exclusively in Japan, with 100 units each of the coupe and convertible variants available. Half of the production run will be distributed via a lottery system, with applications open from July 24 to August 7, and winners notified by August 18.
Design & Styling Highlights
Visually, the Pinnacle Edition takes cues from the US-market LC500 Inspiration Series, but Lexus adds Japan-specific details to distinguish it further. The aggressive bodywork is accentuated by front bumper canards, black exterior accents, and a fixed rear wing made from carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic—a feature first seen on the 2020 LC Aviation special edition.
Coupe: Finished in a striking Oborogin matte silver paint with a matte clear coat for a stealthy effect.
Convertible: Dressed in Neutrino Gray, paired with a luxurious Brown Silver soft top.
Both versions roll on 21-inch forged alloy wheels featuring a black sputtering finish and intricate multi-spoke design that radiates understated elegance.
Crafted Interiors
The cabin treatment differs between body styles, each offering a unique atmosphere:
Coupe: A clean, high-contrast black and white two-tone interior.
Convertible: A more luxurious vibe with saddle tan and white leather.
Special touches include embroidered dashboards, carbon fiber scuff plates, and an exclusive “LC Limited Edition” badge on the center console—subtle nods to the model’s exclusivity.
Familiar Heart, Refined Performance
Under the hood remains the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8, a hallmark of the LC500. Producing 471 horsepower (351 kW) and 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque, it’s mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels. Lexus adds a specially tuned limited-slip differential to sharpen the driving experience.
Performance tuning is tailored to each model’s character:
The coupe gains a rear aluminum hollow suspension member, boosting rigidity and grip for more responsive handling.
The convertible is tuned for smoother ride comfort, preserving its grand touring essence.
Price and Availability
The LC500 Pinnacle Edition is priced at ¥17,800,000 (approx. $121,500 USD), placing it at the top of the LC range. Its limited numbers and exclusive features ensure it will become a coveted collector’s item for Japanese enthusiasts.
2026 LC Lineup Updates
Beyond the Pinnacle Edition, Lexus has introduced subtle tweaks to the broader LC lineup for the Japanese market. While there are no major design changes, all trims now feature a new door sticker that—according to Lexus—enhances “the sense of rigidity.”
Buyers can still choose between:
The LC500 with its 5.0-liter V8
The LC500h, which pairs a 3.5-liter V6 with hybrid assistance
Notably, the LC500h hybrid variant remains on sale in Japan, even as it’s discontinued for the U.S. market as of 2026.
Prices for the updated Japanese-spec LC range from:
¥14,100,000 to ¥14,930,000 ($96,200–$101,900 USD) for the LC500
¥14,550,000 to ¥15,380,000 ($99,300–$105,000 USD) for the LC500h
Availability begins August 4, offering Japanese buyers one final chance to enjoy Lexus’ flagship coupe before its eventual curtain call.
