Am I getting jacked by a car dealer?

[TheVTCGuy]

OK, so…. I own a Hybrid (love it) but have been itching to buy an EV for a couple years now. Let’s NOT make this about EVs OK? If you have strong feelings for or against them just forget I put that in there, but it’s relevant to the story.

Several weeks ago Lexus announced their 2026 ES series line up and one, (an EV) was EXACTLY the car I was looking for; perfect. I won’t go in to the reasons but if you have ever seen a new car and said: “That’s the one” you know what I mean. I spoke to the local dealer, explained this was the vehicle I was looking for and even though they are not released yet, I was ready whenever they became available. He was (of course) 100% supportive, saying he heard the ES300E and 500E were excellent vehicles and he would be glad to help me blah blah; so far everything as expected. Siting a couple different sources on the internet, the 2026 models should be available either November/December this year, or January/February 2026. He would be able to take my deposit and order within a month or two; everything is great.

Today I get a text from him, he SAYS the 2026 models won’t be available for AT LEAST ONE YEAR, June of 2026. And.. Oh by the way, he can get me a great deal on a new 300H, (Hybrid).

The way I see it, there are a couple possibilities. One, the delay really WILL be that long (is it possible?) Or two: He is trying to sell me on something NOW instead of later. I.e. A bird in the hand…. Funny, how enthusiastic he was about selling me an EV model and now, he is denouncing said model and expressing I REALLY want a(nother) hybrid.

Anyone that knows anything about car dealerships (which is a lot more then I do) is it POSSIBLE the 2026 model of any new car will not be released until the middle of the year? Or is this some kind of ploy to get rid of their 2025 stock? Or (I can’t help but chuckle when I compare how positive he talked about the EV model a few days ago, citing all the accolades, but now demeaning electric vehicles and telling me quote: You REALLY want another hybrid.” )

Look forward to your opinions