For the previous couple years we have recognized Toyota has been engaged on a brand new front-engine supercar that will be a successor to the Lexus LFA, however we did not know if it could be bought and raced as a Toyota, a Lexus, or each. Final evening Toyota revealed the GR GT street automotive in manufacturing guise alongside its GR GT3 race automotive sibling, neither of which are literally Toyota-branded, as a substitute simply carrying Gazoo Racing badges. The GR GT makes use of a brand new aluminum space-frame, is powered by a brand new twin-turbo hybrid V8, and has all types of different new, thrilling features.
Along with wheeling out the GR GT, the automaker confirmed that sure, there may even be a Lexus model, exhibiting off the identical Sport Idea that was revealed at Pebble Seashore this yr. Solely now it has a brand new identify: LFA, not LFR like some individuals (together with us) had speculated. The brand new LFA will likely be a twin of the GR GT, utilizing the identical superior construction and chassis, however as a substitute of utilizing the hybrid V8 discovered within the GR GT, the LFA will likely be absolutely electrical. Cue the outrage.
We do not know a lot but
As with the GR GT, the automaker says the Lexus LFA may have a low middle of gravity, low total weight, excessive rigidity, a excessive degree of aerodynamic efficiency, and most significantly a way of car-driver unity and fascinating dynamics. Now, Lexus is saying actually nothing in regards to the LFA’s powertrain or specs, simply that it’s going to reply chairman Akio Toyoda’s request to “utterly redefine the sound of an electrical sports activities automotive.” I would not be shocked if the LFA has all-wheel drive to additional distinguish itself from the rear-drive GR GT; a two-motor setup appears most certainly, however it could be actually superior with three or 4. The GR GT has a forty five/55 entrance/rear weight steadiness, however placing a battery in will in all probability even that out.
Lexus did not change the Sport Idea’s styling in any respect for this reveal, and I doubt a lot will change for the manufacturing model, at the least on the skin. In comparison with the GR GT (within the center within the beneath image), the LFA (on the left) has softer surfacing, a sleeker form and greenhouse, better-integrated intakes and vents, and extra advanced lights. It is a number of inches shorter in size than the GR however barely wider, whereas its top is similar and the low hood top appears the identical as nicely. The inside is much more concept-y and minimal, with a yoke-style wheel. I would count on the manufacturing LFA’s cabin to be a lot nearer to the GR GT’s.
Toyota
We do not but know when the LFA will go on sale, however it can absolutely be after the GR GT and GR GT3 launch in 2027. As for the worth? Nicely, it’s going to in all probability be lots. The GR GT itself ought to begin at nicely into the six-figure vary, and whereas in Japan and different markets it’s going to be bought by way of its personal channels, within the U.S. will probably be provided by way of choose Lexus dealerships. That implies that we’ll have two new supercars on sale alongside one another, hopefully with December to Keep in mind purple bows on the hood.
Oh, and concerning using the LFA identify, Lexus says “not sure to autos powered by inside combustion engines, “LFA” is a mannequin identify that symbolizes a car mannequin that embodies the applied sciences that engineers of its time ought to protect and move on to the subsequent technology. From the previous to the long run―the Lexus LFA Idea is a testomony to Lexus’ taking up the problem of continuous to protect and move on to the subsequent technology the worth of sports activities vehicles and must-retain car-making information whereas striving to evolve such know-how.” So take that, haters.
