Lexus LFA
Encyclopedia
The Lexus LFA is a 2-seat exotic
sports coupe produced by Lexus
as a concept car
, "halo" vehicle, racing prototype, and production model. It is the second model in the F marque line of performance vehicles from Lexus, following the IS F. Three concept versions have been shown, each debuting at the North American International Auto Show
with the LF-A designation as part of the LF Series
concept line. The first LF-A concept premiered in 2005, followed in 2007 by a second LF-A with a more completely furnished interior and exterior. The third version of the LF-A, a roadster
model, premiered in 2008. The production model, trademarked LFA, was shown at the Tokyo Motor Show
in October 2009.
The production Lexus LFA features a new V10 engine
and a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer
(CFRP) body. CFRP materials account for 65 percent of the LFA's body composition by mass. The LFA went into production in late 2010, with a projected run of 500 vehicles at the base price of . A circuit-tuned variant is scheduled for 2012.
, the famous motorsport race track in Nürburg, Germany, since October 2004. Numerous test vehicles had been equipped with automatic retractable rear wings, and carbon ceramic brake discs.
) while its wheelbase measured 101.6 inches (2,580.6 mm), or about nine inches longer. The concept was nearly 48 inches (1,219.2 mm) in height about equal to the Ferrari F430
with a width of 73.2 in (1,859 mm). The concept name referred to Lexus Future-Advance. The first LF-A concept featured a glass roof and side cameras mounted in the side mirrors. Twin rear radiators were installed behind the rear wheels, and visible behind large screens. The rear bumper featured a triple exhaust placed in an inverted triangle formation. The wheels were shaped like turbines, and air-scoops were placed on the C-pilllars. Following enthusiastic public reaction for the LF-A concept on the autoshow circuit, development continued with a greater emphasis on a possible production model. Concurrently, Lexus was preparing for the launch of its long-rumored F marque series of performance vehicles, with a production LF-A being a possible future member of this lineup. Reports in 2006 suggested that the LF-A concept car had received the green-light for production, however these reports were not officially confirmed.
and hybrid version of the LF-A. The hybrid version, combining a petrol engine with electric motors, would likely feature a V8
powertrain similar to that designed for the Lexus LS 600h L. LF-A test mules continued to be spotted at the Nürburgring, including early models with a large, fixed rear wing. In December 2007, Auto Express
reported that the LF-A had set an unofficial 7:24 lap record at the Nürburgring.
In January 2008, Lexus displayed a roadster version of the LF-A concept car designated LF-A Roadster or LF-AR at the North American International Auto Show. Initial specifications for the roadster were a V10 engine under 5.0 L with over 500 hp and a top speed of over 200 mi/h. Automotive photographers capturing the LF-A in various test guises had photographed a disguised drop-top test model, dubbed LF-A Spyder, on the Nürburgring as early as October 2005. After its debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show, the LF-A Roadster was also shown at the 2008 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance
, the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, the United States Open Championship tournament, and at Lexus exhibits in Japan. A single LF-A racing prototype was also entered into Veranstaltergemeinschaft Langstreckenpokal Nürburgring endurance races at the Nürburgring in May 2008, competing in the SP8 class of VLN events. Media reports uncovered an LFA trademark filing with the United States Patent and Trademark Office
in December 2008, with the concept LF-A name dropping its hyphen to become LFA for a possible production model.
The second LF-A concepts had an overall length of 175.6 inches (4,460.2 mm), and a wheelbase of 102.3 inches (2,598.4 mm); height remained the same as the prior concept, while width grew to 74.6 inches (1,894.8 mm). While the original LF-A had been strictly a concept model, the second concept's design reflecting engineering analysis for possible production. The exterior design had been restyled to take advantage of the flexibility offered by carbon fiber construction, with improved aerodynamics and surface features aimed at improving the coupe's overall top speed. The reshaped exterior featured smoother lines with additional detailing, and more curved surfaces. The aft radiator cooling vents were retained, but integrated into the rear fascia, and the lower side and front air intakes were restyled, along with the forward fascia and headlamps. Designers reportedly drew inspiration from the 1965 Toyota 2000GT
sports coupe, which was also produced in a front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout, and represented the combination of Japanese technology and design ethics in an supercar. However, no design features on the LF-A were directly derived from the 2000GT. The second LF-A concept and accompanying LF-A Roadster were also equipped with a retractable rear wing for improved handling at speed and a two-seat interior with a two-tone color scheme.
, publicly confirmed production of the LF-A in his speech at a conference held at the Center for Automotive Research
in the United States. The production vehicles were expected to carry V10 engines, putting the car in market competition with the Lamborghini Gallardo
, Ferrari F430, the Porsche 911
(997)
, and the Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1
. Pricing was estimated at over , and close to . In the same month, reports surfaced that coupe would be released as the LF-L to signify its appearances at Le Mans and to draw on its pre-production racing development. Two LF-A prototypes had also competed at Nürburgring VLN endurance races in mid 2009. Other possible names floated in the automotive press included the Lexus GT-F, and Lexus SS550. In September 2009, reports in Japanese automotive magazines indicated that the 4.8 L V10 engine for the LF-A would carry a 1LR designation. A report in Evo in 2009 also indicated that the LF-A V10 engine was being considered for use in the upcoming Lotus Esprit. A subsequent television ad for the Japanese market showed the pre-production LFA testing at the F marque's namesake Fuji Speedway
.
On October 21, 2009, the production Lexus LFA was unveiled on the first press day of the 41st biennial Tokyo Motor Show
. The vehicle was introduced by Akio Toyoda at a press conference, in which it was disclosed that the vehicle would be limited to 500 production copies. The vehicle carried the same designation as the concepts, LFA, but without the hyphen. The production designation reportedly stood for Lexus F-Series Apex. The LFA was shown as the final vehicle of the press conference, following the LF-Ch hybrid concept. Pricing details at the show was estimated at .
The production announcement for the LFA supercar marked the 20th anniversary of the launch of Lexus. Given the high cost of construction and limited production, analysts do not expect LFA sales to be profitable. However, the coupe is intended to serve as a testbed for new car technologies, including carbon fiber mass-production, and related performance vehicle development. At its debut, a circuit-ready model was also indicated for 2012 release.
Following the LFA's release at the Tokyo Motor Show, Lexus unveiled a website with a 'LFA configurator' which allowed users to select exterior and interior colors, brake caliper colors, seats, steering wheel leather, and other interior designs. In total, there are over 30 billion possible configurations. Each LFA will be hand-built by a dedicated production team of engineers and specialists at Toyota's Motomatchi plant in Aichi, Japan.
In the North American market 150 LFAs will be initially sold through a two year lease program much like the Ferrari F50
. This is to prevent owners from reselling the vehicle for a profit. Racing driver Scott Pruett
was hired to give test drives to interested buyers, demonstrating the vehicle's capabilities at Auto Club Speedway. The Lexus division of Toyota Motor USA will stop taking orders at the end of 2009, in which they will talk about a purchase plan for the lessees. Lexus later changed their stance and allowed outright purchase, but only on the condition that they sign an agreement giving the dealer first right of refusal to buy back the LFA if the owner wants to sell it within the first two years. The dealer will have the option to buy back the used LFA for either fair market value or the original sticker price, whichever is lower. In the European market buyers order their LFA through a single Lexus dealer located in Park Lane
, London
where it is purchased outright.
During LFA production, each vehicle will receive a plaque which is individually numbered, indicating the unit's place in the production run. Each LFA V10 engine will also bear the signature of the specialist who assembled it. With 20 units produced monthly, production of the entire LFA run will last for 25 months, from December 2010 to December 2012.
carrying the 1LR-GUE designation with a maximum output of 560 PS delivered at 8,700 rpm. Its maximum torque output of 354 lb.ft arrives at 6,800 rpm, 90 percent of which is available from 3,700 rpm. The engine redline
s at 9,000 rpm, but with a fuel cutoff set at 9,500 rpm, and is constructed using forged aluminum pistons, forged titanium connecting rods, and solid titanium valves. The V angle of the LFA's V-10 engine is set to 72-degrees (as opposed to the 90-degree V angle present in a Dodge Viper's V-10) to fully balance the firing force from the pistons. This 72-degree angle allows for even firing from the pistons without the use of a split-journal crankshaft, thus improving engine efficiency as well as lowering overall weight. Dry sump lubrication prevents engine oil starvation through high speed corners and lowers the engine's center of mass. Air is fed directly from beneath the hood through a visible slit passing into a dual stage variable intake manifold and then into ten individual throttle bodies before finally exiting from a dual stage titanium muffler.
The LFA's engineers selected a V10 engine over an equivalent displacement V8 engine for its ability to rev higher, and over a V12 for its lower reciprocating mass, allowing for more rapid engine response. Lexus claims their engine can rev from idle to its redline in 0.6 seconds and an analog tachometer needle could not accurately track the LFA's changes in engine speeds. This necessitated the use of a digital tachometer which can instantly display engine speed. The engine reportedly weighs less than the manufacturer's own 3.5-liter 2GR-FE
V6 engine. Engineers attempted to make the engine sound like that of a Formula One car with high revs, while at the same time maintaining reliability and vibration control. Along with other manufacturers such as Ferrari
, Toyota had produced their own F1 engines and chassis designs. The exhaust note has been described by Toyota engineers as the "roar of an angel", and a US television spot later used the engine sound to shatter a champagne glass via resonance
frequency.
The powerplant gives the LFA a power-to-weight ratio of 5.9 lb/hp and enables it to reach a top speed of around 202 mi/h. Like the IS F Yamaha co-developed the engine cylinder heads. The engine exceeds Euro V emissions
. The engine is installed with a front mid-engine placement. According to Chief Engineer Haruhiko Tanahashi a front engine layout was selected instead of a mid engine layout as it is inherently more forgiving dynamically, affording less experienced drivers a wider safety net.
) operated with paddle-shifters developed and constructed in-house by Toyota. The driver can select from four settings: auto, normal, sport, and wet. The manufacturer quotes minimum up-shift times of 200 ms in the sport mode. According to Tanahashi a dual-clutch transmission was tested but the design team felt gear changes were overly smooth, resembling that of a traditional automatic and they preferred more abrupt and mechanically engaging shifts. This shifting experience was also favored despite Lexus vehicles' typical emphasis on smooth operation. The auto mode and low speed performance suffer as a result. A Torsen
limited slip differential
is also applied on the LFA, and a launch control
system is available. An offset gear mounted to the crank (a world first) sends power via a torque tube to the transmission. The carbon-fiber torque tube system was developed because of the rear placement of the transmission and low engine layout. The transmission gear ratios are as follows:
(CFRP) center monocoque
with aluminum front and rear subframe
s. The subframes, which can be removed and replaced minimizing potential repair costs, are joined to the monocoque using a newly developed aluminum flanged collar designed to create a stronger joint. According to the manufacturer, the quality of the CRFP material matches that of aeronautical grades and is woven by a laser monitored circular loom, one of only two in the world. Overall 65% of the vehicle's total body mass is CFRP material while the remaining 35% is aluminum. Manufacturer data indicates that the use of CFRP saves 100 kg (220 lbs) over equivalent aluminum materials.
An electric power steering rack with a 14.3:1 gear ratio is used. The front suspension utilizes a double-wishbone arrangement and there is a multi-link arrangement at the rear with coil-over dampers at all wheels. The damper
s are a monotube design, each with a remote fluid reservoir that includes an expanding and contracting bellows
: a purely mechanical system. The LFA further features six-piston front and four-piston rear Brembo
monobloc brake calipers with 390 mm (15.4 in) front and 360 mm (14.2 in) rear carbon ceramic discs controlled by Toyota's Electronically Controlled Brake
brake-by-wire system. Forged 20-inch BBS
wheels fitted with 265 mm (10.4 in) front and 305 mm (12 in) rear Bridgestone
next-generation Pontenza tires are standard. The LFA is equipped with a 3-mode Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) stability control system with Sport setting.
To maintain a near ideal weight distribution, a rear transaxle is used, in addition to the mounting of the fuel tank ahead of the rear axle and the radiators at the rear. The windshield washer fluid reservoir is mounted in the center next to the fuel tank to improve further the center of weight. Overall 48% of the LFA's mass is distributed along the front wheels with 52% at the rear. The 73 l (154 US pt) fuel tank straddles the exhaust system keeping weight centered along the left-right axis. The engine is connected to the transaxle via a rigid carbon-fiber torque tube which the exhaust system runs directly below. This stacked driveshaft and exhaust arrangement decreases the width of the center tunnel allowing for centrally located seating.
secondary to aerodynamics
and operation.
The LFA body features sharp edges and cutoffs for improved aerodynamic performance, made possible by the carbon fiber body. The body was designed with an emphasis on downforce
. There are air scoops located over the rear fenders which feed the aft-mounted radiators and help cool the brakes. A horizontal hood gap also feeds air to the engine. Two small aft vents expel air that is collected by an underbody air scoop and used to cool the titanium exhaust pipes. Dual hood ducts serve to move hot air away from the exhaust manifold.
The LFA's speed-sensitive rear wing incorporates a Gurney flap
and deploys at speeds over 50 mph. With the wing retracted the LFA's body has a drag coefficient of Cd 0.31. The LFA body is offered with a choice of 28 standard exterior colors, along with 3 wheel colors and a matte black option. Additional "special colors" are available to order. The front and rear fenders, doors, roof rails, and rocker panels are made out of blast fiber reinforced sheet panels, while the tail lamps are light-emitting diode
(LED) lights.
, and metallic surfaces. There are two bucket seat
s, and Lexus' Remote Touch
controller interface. The interior design uses bespoke
materials and colors. The instrument display is a digital thin-film transistor
(TFT) speedometer
with color-changing background, size-changing numbers, and side-appearing submenus.
In operation the TFT display shows small digits in automatic mode; larger and bolder numbers in normal mode; inverted colors, moved redline, and stark numbers in sport mode, along with a programmable redline warning color change. The tachometer display also features an electric movable metal ring with layer acrylic plastic to create a 3D effect. The LFA further features a new driver and passenger seat-belt airbag design increases similar to the S-Class ESF safety concept car.
The steering wheel features a right-mounted start button and alloy paddle-shifters. To activate the vehicle the driver must insert the key beside the steering wheel then press the start button. Two octave
s of engine sound are channeled into the cabin via twin ducts which connect the firewall with the intake manifold, with the sound tuned in the manner of an Ovation guitar
. A 12-speaker Mark Levinson
sound system with compact lightweight components was also developed for the interior. Custom-made Tumi suitcase
s are designed for the LFA interior, with a two-piece set made from carbon-fiber style materials and inscribed with the VIN
; a smaller "concourse" case is for track days and short trips, while a larger "coastal" case is for longer trips.
.
The package features an extra 10 bhp from its V10 engine, bringing the total to 562 bhp. It also features a re-calibrated transmission with gear shifts made faster by 0.05 seconds, a front splitter, stiffer and more adjustable suspension, lightweight alloy wheel
s coated in track rubber, aerodynamic canard
s at the sides of the front bumper, and a large fixed rear wing.
The LFA with the Nürburgring Package is a competition-focused variant, and will be available in four exterior colors, namely glossy black, matte black, orange, and whitest white. The production totals are to be included in the 500-unit total LFA planned build cycle, and will be limited to a 50-unit run. At a base price of , buyers will receive training sessions at the Nordschleife, accompanied by Nürburgring chief instructors, a one-night stay at the Lindner Congress and Motorsport Hotel Nürburgring, admission to the ring°werk leisure park, a Nürburgring branded jacket, and a one-year pass to the circuit.
The Nürburgring Package LFA was tested at the Nürburgring
in June 2011. Driven by Akira Iida, the LFA set a time of 7:22.85 (video confirmed), the 10th-fastest time ever for a production vehicle. Lexus USA
confirmed that this lap video was recorded as a "warm up" video for the "ADAC 24-hours" for exhibition purposes. The LFA hit 292 km/h (181 mph) on the last straight uphill climb, which is one of the highest speeds achieved by a stock exotic supercar on that segment of the track. An official lap time will be attempted in the next few months. Standard OEM Bridgestone Potenza RE70 performance street tires were used.
On September 2, 2011 reports came from Lexus via Twitter as well as Chris Harris of Evo Magazine that the Lexus LFA Nürburgring Package completed a lap of the Nurburgring in 7:14 with a top speed of 298 km/h on the "Dottinger" uphill climb, the fourth fastest time ever for a production car, and four seconds quicker than the Porsche 911 GT2 RS at 7:18. A few days later, the time was confirmed by Lexus as 7:14.64, a video was provided. OEM Bridgestone Potenza RE070 tires had been used.
Insideline managed to acquire a LFA from Lexus] for one week and tested the LFA against the Porsche GT2 RS on the track including an impromptu grudge match on the drag strip. Both cars won 2 races each making it a draw. Insideline recorded a 0 - 60 mph in 3.9 seconds without launch control system and achieved the 1/4 mile 11.6 seconds at 124 mi/h. Lexus LFA circled the skidpad in 1.02 g and achieved one of the highest slalom speeds ever recorded at 75.2 mi/h. Insideline also managed to do 3 dyno runs on a dynojet dyno on the Lexus LFA, which resulted in LFA putting down 514 bhp to the wheels, which after factoring in RWD drivetrain loss turned out to be substantially higher than the 552 bhp at the crank factory specification.
Car and Driver
track-tested the LFA in November 2010 while conducting a comparo versus Ferrari 599 HGTE. The test was conducted in Wales
and recorded 0–60 mph (0–96.6 km/h) time of 3.6 seconds using the launch control system and a quarter mile of 11.7 seconds at 125 mi/h. Car and Driver
noted that these acceleration numbers were quicker than those of Ferrari 599 HGTE. Motor Trend
recorded a stopping distance from 60-0 mph in less than 94 ft (28.7 m), and pulled 1.05 g on their skidpad. Road and Track tested the LFA at 74.2 mi/h through the slalom and 1.04 g on the skidpad.
mentioned during the world's press at the Nürburgring in Germany that the LFA has lapped the Nürburgring Nordschleife in "better than 7 minutes 20 seconds", although no further specifics were given to the record lap. The LFA appeared on Top Gear in January 2010, where its power lap of 1.22.8 was the quickest wet test lap ever recorded on the Top Gear test track
; it was 3 seconds faster than the nearest wet lap which was the four-wheel-drive Lamborghini Gallardo
. AutoWeek
on the Goodwood race track in an LFA, independently clocked a fastest lap time of 1:24.8 making it the fastest ever recorded lap on the race track so far and quicker than the third fastest recorded lap by 3 seconds in Nissan GTR of 1:27.7. The 2nd fastest recorded lap is also in a Lexus LFA of 1:27.65. PistonHeads
on the Goodwood race track in an LFA clocked a fastest lap time of 1:27.65.
Motorsports France conducted a track test on the Lexus LFA
and ran a hotlap around the Circuit De Nevers resulting in a laptime of 1:20.6, which was the fastest ever recorded laptime on the race track despite the test having being conducted in 0 degree freezing temperatures. It was one of the very rare track tests where actual LFA launch control system was used resulting in a very fast 0 - 260 kilometre per hour in only 21.2 seconds. The KTM X-Bow
has a second fastest laptime of 1:21.2 followed by Nissan GTR at the third fastest ever lap time on the race track with a laptime of 1:21.5.
Sport Auto
in the September 2010 edition conducted an LFA supertest with a red LFA that had been used in several other tests in Europe and Horst Von Saurma conducted a hot lap
the LFA around Nurburgring. The LFA clocked the Nurburgring in 7:38. The LFA was wearing temporary Bridgestone S001 street tires since the LFA spec tires are still under development. Although the LFA lap time is slower than the chief engineer's "better than 7:20" claim, Sport Auto
cited LFA ran exactly the same lap time with the same driver as other major competitors like the Ferrari 458 Italia, the Corvette ZR1 with Michelin Pilot Sport 2 (PS2) tires and 2 seconds faster than the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, 2 seconds faster than the Porsche 911 (997.2) GT3, 4 seconds faster than the Lamborghini Murciélago LP-670 SV, 10 seconds faster than the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 and 9 seconds faster than the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano
. All tests were conducted by the same driver, Horst von Saurma
.
Auto Zeitung Germany in the August 2010 edition conducted a comparison between Lexus LFA and Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Around Contidrom race track, LFA turned a faster lap time by 1.8 seconds of 1:35.66 as compared to 1:37.50 of the SLS AMG. Although, the start sector both cars hit 204 kilometre per hour, LFA continuously hit higher speeds in the high speed sector, dynamic sector where agility and spontaneous reactions are measured eventually turning in faster lap. AutoZeitung raved about LFA's handling, chassis control and race car-like reflexes and response.
Auto Bild
Germany in the September edition of 2010 in part 1 of the comparison conducted a head-to-head Nurburgring
Supercomparo (longer 20.8 km version of the track)" versus Nissan GT-R
, Lamborghini Gallardo
LP570-4 Superleggera and Wiesmann
GT MF5. Lexus LFA turned in the fastest Nurburgring lap time (7:38,85), which was faster by nearly 2 seconds than the Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera (7:40,76) and almost 5 seconds faster than the GT-R (7:43,65), 6 seconds faster than the SLS AMG and almost 12 seconds faster than the Wiesmann. The Nurburgring 20.8 km test driver Sascha Bert stated "LFA was built for the Nurburgring race track."
Battle of the Supercars did a head-to-head comparison of Audi R8 V10 with the Lexus LFA with Tanner Foust driving the LFA and Paul Tracy driving the R8 V10. LFA comprehensively was declared the winner by the presenter where LFA lapped the short 1-mile track 1 full second faster than the R8 V10 with a lap time of 48.9 for the LFA versus 49.9 R8 despite Tanner having difficulties launching the Lexus LFA in the 1-mile road course lap and also the standing mile drag race where LFA won despite a delayed launch (no launch control used for these runs). This test also saw LFA using launch control for the first time in the 0-100-0 mph test, which led to the LFA accelerating from 0 mi/h much faster than the R8 V10. The R8 V10 conventional brakes brought the car to a stop to 0 mph quicker than the LFA's ceramic carbon brakes. However, in the behind the scenes footage, it was shown the LFA's carbon brakes meant for hardcore track usage were not warmed up properly, which is essential for carbon brakes to perform at their best. In the successive run, R8 V10 brakes suffered massive brake fade increasing the distance 17 feet while LFA carbon brakes were consistently getting better braking shorter in every successive run. In every 0 - 100 mph sprint shown in the behind the scenes footage, LFA out-launched and out-accelerated the R8 V10. In the top speed, rolling start run on the 2 mi (3.2 km) runway, LFA hit a speed of 184.1 mi/h while the R8 V10 hit a speed of 185 mi/h. Tanner Foust explained there was no way to retract the LFA wing spoiler (deploys automatically at 50 mi/h) at high speeds increasing drag substantially, which had cost him 4 mi/h.
but not faster than it; Jeremy Clarkson also noted that the 202 mph LFA costs 6 times more than the 193 mph Nissan GT-R
but is not 6 times faster. In response, Evos review of the LFA pointed out that the performance of "a Bugatti Veyron
is not 12 times more than the GT-R", with reviewer Chris Harris observing that no cars are 6 times more than a GT-R either.
Car and Driver
concluded in its review of the LFA and its performance that the carbon-fiber supercar rated as a "bargain" compared to the more expensive Enzo Ferrari and Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
. In May 2010, Motor Trend
ran the LFA through several track tests and praised its driving dynamics and performance. The LFA was often criticized for taking far too long to reach production, considering from development, to concept, to production was nearly a decade. The LFA has also been criticized for being sold at a price much higher than comparable super-cars. Many Toyota and Lexus enthusiasts were disappointed when Toyota announced the car would be limited to just 500 units and only sold to selected buyers chosen by Lexus. Though, Lexus has been criticized for LFAs steep pricing despite being sold-out, a very limited 500 units production run and very exotic and technological construction, it has been extremely well received by journalists where mostly track tests have yielded rave reviews by media and journalists.
The LFA appeared on Fifth Gear
with presenter Tiff Needell
driving the car around the race track performing hotlaps, powerslides and power oversteers. Needell described in detail the high-tech engineering used in the car and highly praised the 4.8 Liter V10's power and sound as well. Tiff declared "people who purchased the LFA would be very happy when they get their cars". At the conclusion of the review, He concluded "for a weekend race track car, LFA is worth every penny".
In Top Gears comparison of the LFA with the Porsche GT3 RS, Lamborghini Superleggera, Ferrari 458 Italia and SLS AMG, the Stig praised the Lexus LFA and was quoted as saying it is an "Amazing track weapon, super-stiff chassis makes it extremely sensitive to inputs...V10 engine has power everywhere and delivery to make the most of that...brakes powerful but don't interfere...lots of grip in slow and fast corners..full balance into...through, out of corners. What's Lexus? Does it also make fridges?"
Car and Driver in November 2010 did a comparison test between Lexus LFA and Ferrari 599 GTB HGTE with the $30,000 additional handling package. The Lexus LFA won the comparison and was featured in full in the November 2010 magazine edition. Lexus LFA was generally favored in the review as the more hardcore sports car while the 599 GTB was viewed as the GT car. LFA out-accelerated the 599 HGTE from 0 - 60 mph and the 1/4 mile with times of 3.6 seconds and 11.7@125 mph respectively while the 599 HGTE recorded a 0 - 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and 1/4 mile in 11.8@125 mph. Both cars were tested using their full launch control systems. The reviewers praised the Lexus engine, technology, luxury, chassis and suspension calling it a 'rocketship'. Their comments on LFA were "The Lexus feels more athletic than the Ferrari, and its performance is more accessible, more immediately. The engine is remarkable. Austin noted: “They figured out the engine. It’s really strong, and then you hit about 6500 rpm and your eyes get all big as the power hits another level.” The only street-car engine that matches this one for smoothness, ecstatic noise, and power delivery is the 458 Italia’s". The conclusion of Car and Driver was "if Lexus puts this much passion in everyone of its cars, it will simply be unbeatable."
Evo UK compiled a Car of the year
for the year 2010 with "Best of the best" top 10 cars chosen including Ferrari 458 Italia, Porsche GT3 RS, Porsche GT2 RS, Lexus LFA, Lamborghini LP570-4, SLS AMG, Audi R8 V10, Lotus Evora
, updated 2012 R35.2 Nissan GTR, Audi R8 V10. Lexus LFA was highly praised and placed in the top 4 with the Porsche GT3 RS, Ferrari 458 Italia and Porsche GT2 RS. Evo UK called LFA a "very very special car" and praised the engine as "extraordinarily stunning V10 that is only comparable to the V10 in Porsche Carrera GT". The SLS AMG was placed 5h and updated 2012 R35.2 Nissan GTR was placed 8th while Lamborghini LP570-4 was placed 9th. Lexus LFA was placed in the top 4th despite not completing the track tests as Evo UK had to return the LFA to Lexus because it had to be flown elsewhere.
Overall, all the testers at Evo UK overwhelmingly commented positvely about the Lexus LFA particularly its 4.8 Liter V10. Some of the notes in the article about the LFA were "There is nothing in the world like the Lexus LFA. It is more special and intriguing than the 458 and demonstrates an extraordinary level of passion and commitment. Bespoke and limited edition, it is also a genuine supercar that can scare the pants off you. This is mainly thanks to its extraordinary 552bhp 4.8-liter V10 that does everything a Carrera GT's does and then goes completely mad as it closes in on 9500rpm. Its uncompromising ride adds to the challenge, and it was generally agreed that it would have been a bit of a handful up on the moors,
but we were beguiled. "It's a beautiful thing, all the details, and it has the integrity and functionality of a Lexus. Feels like a step up from everything else here," said Meaden. "Very, very special," said Metcalfe. Thank you, Lexus." Chris Harris also noted "there is nothing else out there that has ever felt this special since the Macca F1".
GTspirit
.com tested the LF-A in Monaco
in May 2010 and gave it a positive review with quotes such as "The LFA is incredibly easy to drive. It communicates well, has a superb overall balance and the transparency of the options is an eye-opener. The choice between the racing setup and an all-day trip through a dense city is easily changed." and "the “I want one” feeling grew considerably ever single minute."
4 hour VLN
endurance race. Despite being lapped 5 times and finishing 77th overall among over 200 teams, it surprisingly won the over 4000cc class SP8, as all other five class entrants, including a Porsche 997 Turbo and Aston Martin Vantage, failed to finish. The best lap time of the Lexus, on the 24.4 km version used in VLN, was 9:06 in 3rd of 23 laps, on par with old Porsche 996 GT3 Cup (class Cup3A), while the fastest SP8 cars managed 8:20s.
Lexus also took part in the 24 Hours Nürburgring
on 24/25 May 2008, with four Japanese drivers including Akira Iida
leading the team. The LF-A was involved in a crash just prior to the race and was hurriedly repaired in two hours to make the race. As car #14, it qualified 27th among 223 cars, and finished 7th in the SP8 class of 11 entrants, and 121st overall, with a best lap average speed of 163 kilometre per hour, compared to 175 kilometre per hour of the fastest cars.
The LF-A was subsequently entered into the 24 Hours Nürburgring race for the manufacturer stated purpose of obtaining feedback for fine-tuning production versions along with training of support technicians. Gazoo registered two LF-As and a single IS F in the SP8 class (4000cc to 6200cc), as the LF-A racecars were powered by a 4.8-liter (4805cc) V10 engine with a 9000 rpm redline.
At the 2009 24 Hours of Nürburgring
endurance race held on May 23/24, the No. 15 LF-A driven by Jochen Krumbach, Armin Hahne
, Andre Lotterer
, and Hiromu Naruse
achieved sub-9min laps and a best time of 8:50.458, which was the fastest time in the SP8 class, with a best lap speed of 172 kilometre per hour;. The fastest times by the race leaders (SP9 class) were in the 8:40 range with a best lap speed of 176 kilometre per hour. About 90 minutes from race completion, the No. 15 LF-A experienced a separated driveshaft and a fire which poured white smoke from the vehicle's rear section. The No. 14 LF-A completed the race and was ranked 4th in its class and 87th overall, behind the 3rd ranked No. 16 IS F During the early portions of the race the No. 14 LF-A recorded its peak position of 14th overall. One of the drivers of the No. 14 car was Toyota's new CEO Akio Toyoda
, who also met Aston Martin's President and fellow race entrant Ulrich Bez
at the race before deciding to build the Aston Martin Cygnet
together.
The Chief Test Driver/Engineer Hiromu Naruse
, who coached the 2010 LFA race team, died in a tragic accident on June 23, 2010 testing the Nurburgring Edition of the Lexus LFA on the roads local to the Nordschleife in Germany. According to police reports, the traffic accident occurred when his LFA Nürburgring Edition test prototype veered into oncoming traffic, colliding head-on with a BMW 3 series near the Nürburgring, at Boos
. The BMW was also a test vehicle, both occupants were injured, one severely; both were expected to survive. All three test drivers wore helmets.
exhibition in Milan, Italy. Part of the marque's introductory display of its L-finesse design theme, the full-size LF-A model was presented next to a production Lexus GS
model, in a design space produced by painter Hiroshi Senju
, designer Junya Ishigami, and architect Kazuyo Sejima. The sculpted LF-A model followed the first introduction of the LF-A concept at the North American International Auto Show in January of that year. In contrast with the production GS sedan it shared the display space with, the LF-A model did not have interior access.
In April 2009, Lexus presented an acrylic glass sculpture LFA model, called 'Crystallised Wind', at that year's Milan Design Week exhibition at the Museo della Permanente art gallery in Milan. Commissioned in partnership with architect Sou Fujimoto, the full-sized LFA crystal sculpture had a transparent appearance, allowing viewers to see the engine, chassis, interior, and other internal components. Although closely resembling the 2007 coupe concept, design elements on the LFA Crystallised Wind model differed from previous iterations of the coupe, with five-spoke wheels, different headlamp shapes, and other separate details. The vehicle was presented along with a collection of accessories, gadgets, and styling products all produced from the same acrylic materials used in the Crystallised Wind model.
awarded Lexus LFA chief engineer Haruhiko Tanahashi as one of its Men of the Year for 2009 along with Sébastien Loeb
, Jenson Button
, Barack Obama
, and others. In April 2010, the LFA topped the Stiff Magazine list of the Top 5 V10 Road Cars. In its 2010 test of the LFA, Car gave the vehicle the magazine's maximum rating of five stars. The LFA was also named to the Top Gear 100 Sexiest Supercars of All Time list in 2010. Top Gear
magazine in its September 2010 edition picked "5 greatest supercars of the year" and the LFA was honored as one of the greatest supercars of the year along with Porsche GT3 RS, Lamborghini Superleggera, Ferrari 458 Italia and SLS AMG. All 5 cars were featured in the magazine in a side by side comparison and LFA was picked as the "Stig's most favorite supercar".
Evo UK in its January 2011 edition held a "best engine of the year" selection. Lexus LFA's 4.8 Liter V10 was selected as the "best engine of the year" over SLS AMG's V8, 458 Italia's V8, GTR's V6, LP570-4 and R8's V10, Porsche GT2 RS and GT3 RS' flat-6, Evora's V6 and Focus RS500's inline-5 engines. Some of the comments regarding the Lexus LFA's V10 were "A mix of road and racing engines: Lexus LFA's utterly intoxicating 4.8 Liter V10.", "There is the noise it makes, for a start, a dense shriek like a V10 F1 car's", "Then there's the wall of torque from 5000 rpm to 9000 rpm and a strong thrust even before that", "Lighter than an average V6 and it even meets the Euro 5 emission standards", "It is hard to imagine that such an engine's career will be over when all the LFAs are built, given the love that has gone into it. We certainly hope not".
The LF-A Roadster concept received an iF product design award
from the International Forum Design
organization in 2008, and the first LF-A concept was a recipient of an IDEA award from the Industrial Designers Society of America
in the Design Explorations category of 2005's International Design Excellence Awards. The LFA was also a finalist in the 2009 Car Design of the Year and the Festival Automobile International's "most beautiful supercar of the year” awards.
. In late 2010, Polyphony Digital
, game developers for Sony Computer Entertainment
announced that the Lexus LFA would make an appearance in Gran Turismo 5
on the PlayStation 3
game console. The Lexus LFA will be one of over 1,000 cars featured in the game. The Lexus LFA is also featured in the game Shift 2: Unleashed
.
Supercar
Supercar is a term used most often to describe an expensive high end car. It has been defined specifically as "a very expensive, fast or powerful car"...
sports coupe produced by Lexus
Lexus
is the luxury vehicle division of Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corporation. First introduced in 1989 in the United States, Lexus is now sold globally and has become Japan's largest-selling make of premium cars. The Lexus marque is marketed in over 70 countries and territories worldwide, and has...
as a concept car
Concept car
A concept vehicle or show vehicle is a car made to showcase new styling and or new technology. They are often shown at motor shows to gauge customer reaction to new and radical designs which may or may not have a chance of being produced....
, "halo" vehicle, racing prototype, and production model. It is the second model in the F marque line of performance vehicles from Lexus, following the IS F. Three concept versions have been shown, each debuting at the North American International Auto Show
North American International Auto Show
The North American International Auto Show is an annual auto show held in Detroit, Michigan at Cobo Center, usually in January. It is among the largest auto shows in North America.-History:...
with the LF-A designation as part of the LF Series
Lexus LF
The Lexus LF line is a series of concept cars built by Lexus, the luxury vehicle division of Toyota Motor Corporation. The "LF" designation refers to Lexus Future. The LF Series vehicles include three coupes/convertibles: the LF-A, the LF-A Roadster, and the LF-C; three sedans: the LF-S, LF-Sh, and...
concept line. The first LF-A concept premiered in 2005, followed in 2007 by a second LF-A with a more completely furnished interior and exterior. The third version of the LF-A, a roadster
Roadster
A roadster is a two-seat open car with emphasis on sporty handling and without a fixed roof or side weather protection. Strictly speaking a roadster with wind-up windows is a convertible but as true roadsters are no longer made the distinction is now irrelevant...
model, premiered in 2008. The production model, trademarked LFA, was shown at the Tokyo Motor Show
Tokyo Motor Show
The is a biennial auto show held in October-November at the Makuhari Messe, Chiba City, Japan for cars, motorcycles and commercial vehicles. Hosted by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association , it is a recognized international show by the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs...
in October 2009.
The production Lexus LFA features a new V10 engine
V10 engine
A V10 engine is a V engine with 10 cylinders in two banks of five with a distinct exhaust note.- Mechanics :The V10 is essentially the result of mating two even-firing straight-5 engines together. The straight-5 engine shows first and second order rocking motion...
and a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer
Carbon fiber-reinforced polymer
Carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer or carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic , is a very strong and light fiber-reinforced polymer which contains carbon fibers. The polymer is most often epoxy, but other polymers, such as polyester, vinyl ester or nylon, are sometimes used...
(CFRP) body. CFRP materials account for 65 percent of the LFA's body composition by mass. The LFA went into production in late 2010, with a projected run of 500 vehicles at the base price of . A circuit-tuned variant is scheduled for 2012.
2000–2004
In February 2000 the LF-A began development as a supercar project codenamed P280, which was intended to showcase the performance capabilities of Toyota Motor Corporation and its Lexus marque. The first prototype was completed during June 2003. Prototypes of the LF-A were spotted regularly undergoing testing at NürburgringNürburgring
The Nürburgring is a motorsport complex around the village of Nürburg, Germany. It features a modern Grand Prix race track built in 1984, and a much longer old North loop track which was built in the 1920s around the village and medieval castle of Nürburg in the Eifel mountains. It is located about...
, the famous motorsport race track in Nürburg, Germany, since October 2004. Numerous test vehicles had been equipped with automatic retractable rear wings, and carbon ceramic brake discs.
2005–2006
In January 2005, the first LF-A concept premiered at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan as a design study with no plans for production. The first LF-A concept had an overall length of 173.2 inches (4,399.3 mm), five inches shorter than the Porsche 911 Turbo (996Porsche 996
The Porsche 996 is the internal designation for the Porsche 911 model manufactured and sold between 1998 and 2005. It has since been replaced by the Type 997...
) while its wheelbase measured 101.6 inches (2,580.6 mm), or about nine inches longer. The concept was nearly 48 inches (1,219.2 mm) in height about equal to the Ferrari F430
Ferrari F430
The Ferrari F430 is a sports car that was produced by the Italian automaker Ferrari from 2004 to 2009, as a successor to the 360. It debuted at the 2004 Paris Motor Show...
with a width of 73.2 in (1,859 mm). The concept name referred to Lexus Future-Advance. The first LF-A concept featured a glass roof and side cameras mounted in the side mirrors. Twin rear radiators were installed behind the rear wheels, and visible behind large screens. The rear bumper featured a triple exhaust placed in an inverted triangle formation. The wheels were shaped like turbines, and air-scoops were placed on the C-pilllars. Following enthusiastic public reaction for the LF-A concept on the autoshow circuit, development continued with a greater emphasis on a possible production model. Concurrently, Lexus was preparing for the launch of its long-rumored F marque series of performance vehicles, with a production LF-A being a possible future member of this lineup. Reports in 2006 suggested that the LF-A concept car had received the green-light for production, however these reports were not officially confirmed.
2007–2008
Following the original LF-A concept, development time was lengthened by the switch from an aluminum frame to a carbon fibre tub, the result of engineering efforts aimed at improving the LF-A's power-to-weight ratio. The LF-A was reported to draw engineering resources from Toyota's Formula One team. In January 2007, a restyled LF-A concept car premiered alongside the first production F marque vehicle, the IS F sports sedan. The second LF-A concept featured a more aerodynamic exterior, a near-production interior, and F marque emblems. Later that year, Lexus GB director Steve Settle indicated plans for a V10V10 engine
A V10 engine is a V engine with 10 cylinders in two banks of five with a distinct exhaust note.- Mechanics :The V10 is essentially the result of mating two even-firing straight-5 engines together. The straight-5 engine shows first and second order rocking motion...
and hybrid version of the LF-A. The hybrid version, combining a petrol engine with electric motors, would likely feature a V8
V8 engine
A V8 engine is a V engine with eight cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of four cylinders, in most cases set at a right angle to each other but sometimes at a narrower angle, with all eight pistons driving a common crankshaft....
powertrain similar to that designed for the Lexus LS 600h L. LF-A test mules continued to be spotted at the Nürburgring, including early models with a large, fixed rear wing. In December 2007, Auto Express
Auto Express
Auto Express is a weekly motoring magazine sold in the United Kingdom published by Dennis Publishing. The Editor-in-Chief is Steve Fowler.Launched in September 1988, its 1000th issue was published on 20 February 2008. It's only weekly competitor in Britain is the long established Autocar...
reported that the LF-A had set an unofficial 7:24 lap record at the Nürburgring.
In January 2008, Lexus displayed a roadster version of the LF-A concept car designated LF-A Roadster or LF-AR at the North American International Auto Show. Initial specifications for the roadster were a V10 engine under 5.0 L with over 500 hp and a top speed of over 200 mi/h. Automotive photographers capturing the LF-A in various test guises had photographed a disguised drop-top test model, dubbed LF-A Spyder, on the Nürburgring as early as October 2005. After its debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show, the LF-A Roadster was also shown at the 2008 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance
Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance
The Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance is an automotive charitable event held each year on the Pebble Beach Golf Links in Pebble Beach, California, considered the most prestigious event of its kind. It is the finale of a week long festival of classic cars events in the Monterey area every year...
, the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, the United States Open Championship tournament, and at Lexus exhibits in Japan. A single LF-A racing prototype was also entered into Veranstaltergemeinschaft Langstreckenpokal Nürburgring endurance races at the Nürburgring in May 2008, competing in the SP8 class of VLN events. Media reports uncovered an LFA trademark filing with the United States Patent and Trademark Office
United States Patent and Trademark Office
The United States Patent and Trademark Office is an agency in the United States Department of Commerce that issues patents to inventors and businesses for their inventions, and trademark registration for product and intellectual property identification.The USPTO is based in Alexandria, Virginia,...
in December 2008, with the concept LF-A name dropping its hyphen to become LFA for a possible production model.
Toyota 2000GT
The Toyota 2000GT is a limited-production, front-engine, rear-wheel drive, two-seat, hardtop coupé grand tourer designed by Toyota in collaboration with Yamaha. First displayed to the public at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1965, the 2000GT was manufactured under contract by Yamaha between 1967 and...
sports coupe, which was also produced in a front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout, and represented the combination of Japanese technology and design ethics in an supercar. However, no design features on the LF-A were directly derived from the 2000GT. The second LF-A concept and accompanying LF-A Roadster were also equipped with a retractable rear wing for improved handling at speed and a two-seat interior with a two-tone color scheme.
2009
On August 5, 2009, Toyota's new CEO, Akio ToyodaAkio Toyoda
is the president and CEO of Toyota Motor Corporation.He received his MBA from Babson College.- Career :Akio Toyoda joined Toyota in 1984. In 2000 he joined Toyota's board of directors. In 2005 he was promoted to executive vice president....
, publicly confirmed production of the LF-A in his speech at a conference held at the Center for Automotive Research
Center for Automotive Research
The Center for Automotive Research is a nonprofit organization based in Ann Arbor, Michigan that conducts research, forecasts trends, develops new methodologies, and advises on public policy....
in the United States. The production vehicles were expected to carry V10 engines, putting the car in market competition with the Lamborghini Gallardo
Lamborghini Gallardo
The Lamborghini Gallardo is a sports car built by Lamborghini. The Gallardo is Lamborghini's most-produced model to date, with over 10,000 built in its first seven years of production...
, Ferrari F430, the Porsche 911
Porsche 911
The Porsche 911 is a luxury 2-door sports coupe made by Porsche AG of Stuttgart, Germany. It has a distinctive design, rear-engined and with independent rear suspension, an evolution of the swing axle on the Porsche 356. The engine was also air-cooled until the introduction of the Type 996 in 1998...
(997)
Porsche 997
The Porsche Type 997 , also simply called the 997 is the current version of the 911 family sports car built by German manufacturer Porsche in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen...
, and the Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1
Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1
The Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1 is a high performance version of the Chevrolet Corvette C6. Both the C3 from 1969–1971 and C4 Corvettes from 1990-1995 had ZR-1 models...
. Pricing was estimated at over , and close to . In the same month, reports surfaced that coupe would be released as the LF-L to signify its appearances at Le Mans and to draw on its pre-production racing development. Two LF-A prototypes had also competed at Nürburgring VLN endurance races in mid 2009. Other possible names floated in the automotive press included the Lexus GT-F, and Lexus SS550. In September 2009, reports in Japanese automotive magazines indicated that the 4.8 L V10 engine for the LF-A would carry a 1LR designation. A report in Evo in 2009 also indicated that the LF-A V10 engine was being considered for use in the upcoming Lotus Esprit. A subsequent television ad for the Japanese market showed the pre-production LFA testing at the F marque's namesake Fuji Speedway
Fuji Speedway
is a race track standing in the foothills of Mount Fuji, in Oyama, Suntō District, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. It was built in the early 1960s and hosted the first Formula One race in Japan in 1976. In the 1980s, Fuji Speedway was used for the FIA World Sportscar Championship and national racing...
.
On October 21, 2009, the production Lexus LFA was unveiled on the first press day of the 41st biennial Tokyo Motor Show
Tokyo Motor Show
The is a biennial auto show held in October-November at the Makuhari Messe, Chiba City, Japan for cars, motorcycles and commercial vehicles. Hosted by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association , it is a recognized international show by the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs...
. The vehicle was introduced by Akio Toyoda at a press conference, in which it was disclosed that the vehicle would be limited to 500 production copies. The vehicle carried the same designation as the concepts, LFA, but without the hyphen. The production designation reportedly stood for Lexus F-Series Apex. The LFA was shown as the final vehicle of the press conference, following the LF-Ch hybrid concept. Pricing details at the show was estimated at .
The production announcement for the LFA supercar marked the 20th anniversary of the launch of Lexus. Given the high cost of construction and limited production, analysts do not expect LFA sales to be profitable. However, the coupe is intended to serve as a testbed for new car technologies, including carbon fiber mass-production, and related performance vehicle development. At its debut, a circuit-ready model was also indicated for 2012 release.
Production
Lexus began taking orders for the LFA supercar on October 23, 2009. Buyers will be selectively chosen by Lexus in the second quarter of 2010. Production will begin in December 2010 as a 2011 model. Only 500 total LFA models will be made worldwide, with only 20 produced each month. Each car will be custom ordered to the customer's specifications, and will cost an estimated , depending on options and customization.Following the LFA's release at the Tokyo Motor Show, Lexus unveiled a website with a 'LFA configurator' which allowed users to select exterior and interior colors, brake caliper colors, seats, steering wheel leather, and other interior designs. In total, there are over 30 billion possible configurations. Each LFA will be hand-built by a dedicated production team of engineers and specialists at Toyota's Motomatchi plant in Aichi, Japan.
In the North American market 150 LFAs will be initially sold through a two year lease program much like the Ferrari F50
Ferrari F50
The Ferrari F50 is a mid-engined range-topping sports car made by Ferrari. The F50 was introduced in 1995 to celebrate the company's 50th anniversary. The car is a two door, two seat convertible with a removable hardtop...
. This is to prevent owners from reselling the vehicle for a profit. Racing driver Scott Pruett
Scott Pruett
Scott Donald Pruett is an American race car driver who has competed in NASCAR, Champ Car, IMSA, Trans-Am and Grand-Am. He and his wife Judy have three children, and are children's book authors....
was hired to give test drives to interested buyers, demonstrating the vehicle's capabilities at Auto Club Speedway. The Lexus division of Toyota Motor USA will stop taking orders at the end of 2009, in which they will talk about a purchase plan for the lessees. Lexus later changed their stance and allowed outright purchase, but only on the condition that they sign an agreement giving the dealer first right of refusal to buy back the LFA if the owner wants to sell it within the first two years. The dealer will have the option to buy back the used LFA for either fair market value or the original sticker price, whichever is lower. In the European market buyers order their LFA through a single Lexus dealer located in Park Lane
Park Lane (road)
Park Lane is a major road in the City of Westminster, in Central London.-History:Originally a country lane running north-south along what is now the eastern boundary of Hyde Park, it became a fashionable residential address from the eighteenth century onwards, offering both views across Hyde Park...
, London
London
London is the capital city of :England and the :United Kingdom, the largest metropolitan area in the United Kingdom, and the largest urban zone in the European Union by most measures. Located on the River Thames, London has been a major settlement for two millennia, its history going back to its...
where it is purchased outright.
During LFA production, each vehicle will receive a plaque which is individually numbered, indicating the unit's place in the production run. Each LFA V10 engine will also bear the signature of the specialist who assembled it. With 20 units produced monthly, production of the entire LFA run will last for 25 months, from December 2010 to December 2012.
Engine
The Lexus LFA is powered by a 72-degree bank angle 4.8-liter V10 engine equipped with dual VVT-iVVT-i
VVT-i, or Variable Valve Timing with intelligence, is an automobile variable valve timing technology developed by Toyota, similar in performance to the BMW's VANOS. The Toyota VVT-i system replaces the Toyota VVT offered starting in 24 December 1991 on the 5-valve per cylinder 4A-GE engine. The...
carrying the 1LR-GUE designation with a maximum output of 560 PS delivered at 8,700 rpm. Its maximum torque output of 354 lb.ft arrives at 6,800 rpm, 90 percent of which is available from 3,700 rpm. The engine redline
Redline
Redline refers to the maximum engine speed at which an internal combustion engine or traction motor and its components are designed to operate without causing damage to the components themselves or other parts of the engine...
s at 9,000 rpm, but with a fuel cutoff set at 9,500 rpm, and is constructed using forged aluminum pistons, forged titanium connecting rods, and solid titanium valves. The V angle of the LFA's V-10 engine is set to 72-degrees (as opposed to the 90-degree V angle present in a Dodge Viper's V-10) to fully balance the firing force from the pistons. This 72-degree angle allows for even firing from the pistons without the use of a split-journal crankshaft, thus improving engine efficiency as well as lowering overall weight. Dry sump lubrication prevents engine oil starvation through high speed corners and lowers the engine's center of mass. Air is fed directly from beneath the hood through a visible slit passing into a dual stage variable intake manifold and then into ten individual throttle bodies before finally exiting from a dual stage titanium muffler.
The LFA's engineers selected a V10 engine over an equivalent displacement V8 engine for its ability to rev higher, and over a V12 for its lower reciprocating mass, allowing for more rapid engine response. Lexus claims their engine can rev from idle to its redline in 0.6 seconds and an analog tachometer needle could not accurately track the LFA's changes in engine speeds. This necessitated the use of a digital tachometer which can instantly display engine speed. The engine reportedly weighs less than the manufacturer's own 3.5-liter 2GR-FE
Toyota GR engine
The Toyota GR engine family is an open-deck, V6 piston engine series. The GR series has a 60° die-cast aluminum block and aluminum DOHC cylinder heads. This engine series also features 4 valves per cylinder, forged steel connecting rods, one-piece cast camshafts, and a cast aluminum lower intake...
V6 engine. Engineers attempted to make the engine sound like that of a Formula One car with high revs, while at the same time maintaining reliability and vibration control. Along with other manufacturers such as Ferrari
Ferrari
Ferrari S.p.A. is an Italian sports car manufacturer based in Maranello, Italy. Founded by Enzo Ferrari in 1929, as Scuderia Ferrari, the company sponsored drivers and manufactured race cars before moving into production of street-legal vehicles as Ferrari S.p.A. in 1947...
, Toyota had produced their own F1 engines and chassis designs. The exhaust note has been described by Toyota engineers as the "roar of an angel", and a US television spot later used the engine sound to shatter a champagne glass via resonance
Resonance
In physics, resonance is the tendency of a system to oscillate at a greater amplitude at some frequencies than at others. These are known as the system's resonant frequencies...
frequency.
The powerplant gives the LFA a power-to-weight ratio of 5.9 lb/hp and enables it to reach a top speed of around 202 mi/h. Like the IS F Yamaha co-developed the engine cylinder heads. The engine exceeds Euro V emissions
European emission standards
European emission standards define the acceptable limits for exhaust emissions of new vehicles sold in EU member states. The emission standards are defined in a series of European Union directives staging the progressive introduction of increasingly stringent standards.Currently, emissions of...
. The engine is installed with a front mid-engine placement. According to Chief Engineer Haruhiko Tanahashi a front engine layout was selected instead of a mid engine layout as it is inherently more forgiving dynamically, affording less experienced drivers a wider safety net.
Transmission
The gearbox itself is a six-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox (electrohydraulic transmissionElectrohydraulic manual transmission
Electrohydraulic manual transmission is a type of semi-automatic transmission system, which uses an automated clutch unlike conventional manual transmissions where the driver operates the clutch. The clutch is controlled by electronic computers and hydraulics...
) operated with paddle-shifters developed and constructed in-house by Toyota. The driver can select from four settings: auto, normal, sport, and wet. The manufacturer quotes minimum up-shift times of 200 ms in the sport mode. According to Tanahashi a dual-clutch transmission was tested but the design team felt gear changes were overly smooth, resembling that of a traditional automatic and they preferred more abrupt and mechanically engaging shifts. This shifting experience was also favored despite Lexus vehicles' typical emphasis on smooth operation. The auto mode and low speed performance suffer as a result. A Torsen
Torsen
Torsen is a type of differential used in automobiles. It was invented by American Vernon Gleasman and manufactured by the Gleason Corporation. Torsen is a contraction of Torque-Sensing...
limited slip differential
Limited slip differential
A limited slip differential is a type of differential gear arrangement that allows for some difference in angular velocity of the output shafts, but imposes a mechanical bound on the disparity...
is also applied on the LFA, and a launch control
Launch control (automotive)
Launch control typically refers to an electronic aid which is used to assist the drivers of various motorsports at the start of a race.Launch control also refers to an electronic setting on many modern sporting saloons and coupes which help the driver accelerate from a standing start, to gain the...
system is available. An offset gear mounted to the crank (a world first) sends power via a torque tube to the transmission. The carbon-fiber torque tube system was developed because of the rear placement of the transmission and low engine layout. The transmission gear ratios are as follows:
| Gear | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | Reverse | Final Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ratio | 3.231 | 2.188 | 1.609 | 1.233 | 0.970 | 0.795 | 3.587 | 3.417 |
Chassis
The Lexus LFA's frame is made from an in-house designed and manufactured carbon fiber-reinforced polymerCarbon fiber-reinforced polymer
Carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer or carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic , is a very strong and light fiber-reinforced polymer which contains carbon fibers. The polymer is most often epoxy, but other polymers, such as polyester, vinyl ester or nylon, are sometimes used...
(CFRP) center monocoque
Monocoque
Monocoque is a construction technique that supports structural load by using an object's external skin, as opposed to using an internal frame or truss that is then covered with a non-load-bearing skin or coachwork...
with aluminum front and rear subframe
Subframe
A subframe is a structural component of a vehicle, such as an automobile or an aircraft, that uses a discrete, separate structure within a larger body-on-frame or unit body to carry certain components, such as the engine, drivetrain, or suspension. The subframe is bolted and/or welded to the vehicle...
s. The subframes, which can be removed and replaced minimizing potential repair costs, are joined to the monocoque using a newly developed aluminum flanged collar designed to create a stronger joint. According to the manufacturer, the quality of the CRFP material matches that of aeronautical grades and is woven by a laser monitored circular loom, one of only two in the world. Overall 65% of the vehicle's total body mass is CFRP material while the remaining 35% is aluminum. Manufacturer data indicates that the use of CFRP saves 100 kg (220 lbs) over equivalent aluminum materials.
An electric power steering rack with a 14.3:1 gear ratio is used. The front suspension utilizes a double-wishbone arrangement and there is a multi-link arrangement at the rear with coil-over dampers at all wheels. The damper
Shock absorber
A shock absorber is a mechanical device designed to smooth out or damp shock impulse, and dissipate kinetic energy. It is a type of dashpot.-Nomenclature:...
s are a monotube design, each with a remote fluid reservoir that includes an expanding and contracting bellows
Bellows
A bellows is a device for delivering pressurized air in a controlled quantity to a controlled location.Basically, a bellows is a deformable container which has an outlet nozzle. When the volume of the bellows is decreased, the air escapes through the outlet...
: a purely mechanical system. The LFA further features six-piston front and four-piston rear Brembo
Brembo
Brembo S.p.A. is a manufacturer of automotive brake systems, especially for high-performance cars and motorcycles. It was established in Bergamo, Italy in 1961. Soon after the company was formed, it specialised in disc brakes, which were exclusively imported from the United Kingdom at the time...
monobloc brake calipers with 390 mm (15.4 in) front and 360 mm (14.2 in) rear carbon ceramic discs controlled by Toyota's Electronically Controlled Brake
Electronically Controlled Brake
Electronically Controlled Brake developed by Toyota Motor Corporation initially for its hybrid and Lexus models, is the world's first production brake-by-wire braking system. The ECB went on sale in Japan in June 2001, first appearing on the Toyota Estima hybrid , and making its North American...
brake-by-wire system. Forged 20-inch BBS
BBS Kraftfahrzeugtechnik AG
BBS Kraftfahrzeugtechnik AG is a high performance automobile wheel design company headquartered in Schiltach, Germany. BBS serves North America through BBS of America, located in Braselton, Georgia, adjacent to the Road Atlanta Racetrak...
wheels fitted with 265 mm (10.4 in) front and 305 mm (12 in) rear Bridgestone
Bridgestone
The is a multinational rubber conglomerate founded in 1931 by in the city of Kurume, Fukuoka, Japan. The name Bridgestone comes from a calque translation and transposition of ishibashi, meaning "stone bridge" in Japanese....
next-generation Pontenza tires are standard. The LFA is equipped with a 3-mode Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) stability control system with Sport setting.
To maintain a near ideal weight distribution, a rear transaxle is used, in addition to the mounting of the fuel tank ahead of the rear axle and the radiators at the rear. The windshield washer fluid reservoir is mounted in the center next to the fuel tank to improve further the center of weight. Overall 48% of the LFA's mass is distributed along the front wheels with 52% at the rear. The 73 l (154 US pt) fuel tank straddles the exhaust system keeping weight centered along the left-right axis. The engine is connected to the transaxle via a rigid carbon-fiber torque tube which the exhaust system runs directly below. This stacked driveshaft and exhaust arrangement decreases the width of the center tunnel allowing for centrally located seating.
Exterior
The production Lexus LFA has an overall length of 177.4 inches (4,506 mm), while its wheelbase measures 102.6 inches (2,606 mm), with a height of 48 inches (1,219.2 mm) and width of 74.6 in (1,895 mm). Compared to the prior 2007–2008 concepts, the production model is nearly 2 inches (50.8 mm) longer, with identical width, height, and nearly same wheelbase dimensions. The exterior design of the LF-A concepts and the final production model was the work of car stylists led by Lexus Design general manager Kengo Matsumoto. The overall design ethos was based on the principle of form follows function, with aestheticsAesthetics
Aesthetics is a branch of philosophy dealing with the nature of beauty, art, and taste, and with the creation and appreciation of beauty. It is more scientifically defined as the study of sensory or sensori-emotional values, sometimes called judgments of sentiment and taste...
secondary to aerodynamics
Aerodynamics
Aerodynamics is a branch of dynamics concerned with studying the motion of air, particularly when it interacts with a moving object. Aerodynamics is a subfield of fluid dynamics and gas dynamics, with much theory shared between them. Aerodynamics is often used synonymously with gas dynamics, with...
and operation.
The LFA body features sharp edges and cutoffs for improved aerodynamic performance, made possible by the carbon fiber body. The body was designed with an emphasis on downforce
Downforce
Downforce is a downwards thrust created by the aerodynamic characteristics of a car. The purpose of downforce is to allow a car to travel faster through a corner by increasing the vertical force on the tires, thus creating more grip....
. There are air scoops located over the rear fenders which feed the aft-mounted radiators and help cool the brakes. A horizontal hood gap also feeds air to the engine. Two small aft vents expel air that is collected by an underbody air scoop and used to cool the titanium exhaust pipes. Dual hood ducts serve to move hot air away from the exhaust manifold.
The LFA's speed-sensitive rear wing incorporates a Gurney flap
Gurney flap
The Gurney Flap is a small flat tab projecting from the trailing edge of a wing. Typically it is set at a right angle to the pressure side surface of the airfoil,and projects 1% to 2% of the wing chord....
and deploys at speeds over 50 mph. With the wing retracted the LFA's body has a drag coefficient of Cd 0.31. The LFA body is offered with a choice of 28 standard exterior colors, along with 3 wheel colors and a matte black option. Additional "special colors" are available to order. The front and rear fenders, doors, roof rails, and rocker panels are made out of blast fiber reinforced sheet panels, while the tail lamps are light-emitting diode
Light-emitting diode
A light-emitting diode is a semiconductor light source. LEDs are used as indicator lamps in many devices and are increasingly used for other lighting...
(LED) lights.
Interior
The LFA interior incorporates carbon fiber, leather, alcantaraAlcantara (material)
Alcantara is a tradename given to a composite material used to cover surfaces and forms in a variety of applications. The material was developed in the early 1970s by Miyoshi Okamoto, a scientist working for the Japanese chemical company Toray Industries, as a variation of their other product...
, and metallic surfaces. There are two bucket seat
Bucket seat
A bucket seat is a seat contoured to hold one person, distinct from bench seats which are flat platforms designed to seat multiple people. Bucket seats are standard in fast cars to keep riders in place when making sharp or quick turns...
s, and Lexus' Remote Touch
Remote Touch
Remote Touch is a vehicle interface system developed by Lexus for use in conjunction with in-car information, configuration, and entertainment systems. The Remote Touch controller, which is similar to a computer mouse or joystick, allows the driver to operate an on-screen cursor on the vehicle's...
controller interface. The interior design uses bespoke
Bespoke
Bespoke is a term employed in a variety of applications to mean an item custom-made to the buyer's specification...
materials and colors. The instrument display is a digital thin-film transistor
Thin-film transistor
A thin-film transistor is a special kind of field-effect transistor made by depositing thin films of a semiconductor active layer as well as the dielectric layer and metallic contacts over a supporting substrate. A common substrate is glass, since the primary application of TFTs is in liquid...
(TFT) speedometer
Speedometer
A speedometer is a gauge that measures and displays the instantaneous speed of a land vehicle. Now universally fitted to motor vehicles, they started to be available as options in the 1900s, and as standard equipment from about 1910 onwards. Speedometers for other vehicles have specific names...
with color-changing background, size-changing numbers, and side-appearing submenus.
In operation the TFT display shows small digits in automatic mode; larger and bolder numbers in normal mode; inverted colors, moved redline, and stark numbers in sport mode, along with a programmable redline warning color change. The tachometer display also features an electric movable metal ring with layer acrylic plastic to create a 3D effect. The LFA further features a new driver and passenger seat-belt airbag design increases similar to the S-Class ESF safety concept car.
The steering wheel features a right-mounted start button and alloy paddle-shifters. To activate the vehicle the driver must insert the key beside the steering wheel then press the start button. Two octave
Octave
In music, an octave is the interval between one musical pitch and another with half or double its frequency. The octave relationship is a natural phenomenon that has been referred to as the "basic miracle of music", the use of which is "common in most musical systems"...
s of engine sound are channeled into the cabin via twin ducts which connect the firewall with the intake manifold, with the sound tuned in the manner of an Ovation guitar
Ovation Guitar
The Ovation Guitar Company, a holding of Kaman Music Corporation, is a guitar manufacturing company based in New Hartford, Connecticut, USA. Ovation primarily manufactures Steel-stringed acoustic guitars....
. A 12-speaker Mark Levinson
Mark Levinson
The company Mark Levinson, now owned by Madrigal Audio Laboratories specializes in high-end digital audio processors, integrated amplifiers, power amplifiers, pre amplifiers, and CD players...
sound system with compact lightweight components was also developed for the interior. Custom-made Tumi suitcase
Suitcase
A suitcase is a general term for a distinguishable form of luggage. It is often a somewhat flat, rectangular-shaped bag with rounded/square corners, either metal, hard plastic or made of cloth, vinyl or leather that more or less keeps its shape. It has a carrying handle on one side and is used...
s are designed for the LFA interior, with a two-piece set made from carbon-fiber style materials and inscribed with the VIN
Vehicle identification number
A Vehicle Identification Number, commonly abbreviated to VIN, is a unique serial number used by the automotive industry to identify individual motor vehicles. VINs were first used in 1954...
; a smaller "concourse" case is for track days and short trips, while a larger "coastal" case is for longer trips.
Nürburgring Package
On March 15, 2010, Lexus detailed the circuit-tuned variant of the LFA, plans for which were first disclosed at the LFA official press launch the previous October. The variant is officially known as the LFA Nürburgring Package in reference to the similar setup employed on the LFA race vehicles at the 24 Hours Nürburgring24 Hours Nürburgring
The 24 Hours Nürburgring is a touring car and GT endurance racing event on the Nürburgring Nordschleife . With a lap length of over , it allows the participation of more than 200 cars, and over 700 drivers.-Overview:...
.
The package features an extra 10 bhp from its V10 engine, bringing the total to 562 bhp. It also features a re-calibrated transmission with gear shifts made faster by 0.05 seconds, a front splitter, stiffer and more adjustable suspension, lightweight alloy wheel
Alloy wheel
Alloy wheels are automobile wheels which are made from an alloy of aluminium or magnesium. They are typically lighter for the same strength...
s coated in track rubber, aerodynamic canard
Canard (aeronautics)
In aeronautics, canard is an airframe configuration of fixed-wing aircraft in which the forward surface is smaller than the rearward, the former being known as the "canard", while the latter is the main wing...
s at the sides of the front bumper, and a large fixed rear wing.
The LFA with the Nürburgring Package is a competition-focused variant, and will be available in four exterior colors, namely glossy black, matte black, orange, and whitest white. The production totals are to be included in the 500-unit total LFA planned build cycle, and will be limited to a 50-unit run. At a base price of , buyers will receive training sessions at the Nordschleife, accompanied by Nürburgring chief instructors, a one-night stay at the Lindner Congress and Motorsport Hotel Nürburgring, admission to the ring°werk leisure park, a Nürburgring branded jacket, and a one-year pass to the circuit.
The Nürburgring Package LFA was tested at the Nürburgring
Nürburgring
The Nürburgring is a motorsport complex around the village of Nürburg, Germany. It features a modern Grand Prix race track built in 1984, and a much longer old North loop track which was built in the 1920s around the village and medieval castle of Nürburg in the Eifel mountains. It is located about...
in June 2011. Driven by Akira Iida, the LFA set a time of 7:22.85 (video confirmed), the 10th-fastest time ever for a production vehicle. Lexus USA
Lexus
is the luxury vehicle division of Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corporation. First introduced in 1989 in the United States, Lexus is now sold globally and has become Japan's largest-selling make of premium cars. The Lexus marque is marketed in over 70 countries and territories worldwide, and has...
confirmed that this lap video was recorded as a "warm up" video for the "ADAC 24-hours" for exhibition purposes. The LFA hit 292 km/h (181 mph) on the last straight uphill climb, which is one of the highest speeds achieved by a stock exotic supercar on that segment of the track. An official lap time will be attempted in the next few months. Standard OEM Bridgestone Potenza RE70 performance street tires were used.
On September 2, 2011 reports came from Lexus via Twitter as well as Chris Harris of Evo Magazine that the Lexus LFA Nürburgring Package completed a lap of the Nurburgring in 7:14 with a top speed of 298 km/h on the "Dottinger" uphill climb, the fourth fastest time ever for a production car, and four seconds quicker than the Porsche 911 GT2 RS at 7:18. A few days later, the time was confirmed by Lexus as 7:14.64, a video was provided. OEM Bridgestone Potenza RE070 tires had been used.
Manufacturer
Official specifications and performance figures for the Lexus LFA are as follows:| Engine type | 1LR-GUE Toyota LR engine -1LR-GUE:Announced in the Lexus LFA sports car, the 1LR-GUE is a DOHC engine. The engine is made from aluminium alloy, magnesium alloy and titanium alloy and is smaller than most V8s.... 72° V10 V10 engine A V10 engine is a V engine with 10 cylinders in two banks of five with a distinct exhaust note.- Mechanics :The V10 is essentially the result of mating two even-firing straight-5 engines together. The straight-5 engine shows first and second order rocking motion... |
Valvetrain | DOHC 4-valves/cylinder, dual VVT-i VVT-i VVT-i, or Variable Valve Timing with intelligence, is an automobile variable valve timing technology developed by Toyota, similar in performance to the BMW's VANOS. The Toyota VVT-i system replaces the Toyota VVT offered starting in 24 December 1991 on the 5-valve per cylinder 4A-GE engine. The... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4805 cc | Bore x Stroke | 88 by 79 mm (3.5 by 3.1 in) |
| Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | Redline | 9000 rpm (rev limiter Rev limiter A rev limiter is a device fitted to an internal combustion engine to restrict its maximum rotational speed. This is usually carried out to prevent damage to the engine, however sometimes these devices are fitted to prevent an engine reaching the point at which it develops maximum power... 9500 rpm) |
| Transmission | 6-speed ASG Electrohydraulic manual transmission Electrohydraulic manual transmission is a type of semi-automatic transmission system, which uses an automated clutch unlike conventional manual transmissions where the driver operates the clutch. The clutch is controlled by electronic computers and hydraulics... |
Minimum shift times | 200 ms or 150 ms |
| Power | 560 PS @ 8700 rpm | Torque | 480 N·m (354 ft·lbf) @ 6800 rpm |
| Curb weight | 1480 kg (3,263 lb) | Weight-to-Power | 5.9 lb/hp |
| Weight distribution | 49.8:50.2 (front:rear) | Top speed | 326 kilometres per hour (202.6 mph) |
| 3.6 sec. (official, w/o launch control) | 3.7 sec. |
Performance
Tested performance specifications for the Lexus LFA from Car and Driver†, Motor Trend‡, Road & Track†† and Insideline††† are as follows:| 3.6 secs (w/ launch control.)† | 10.8 sec.† | ||
| 7.6 sec.† | 12.7 sec.† | ||
| 11.4 sec. | 21.2 sec. | ||
| 9.2 sec.† | 18.3 sec.† | ||
| 11.6 sec. †††(@ 125 mph (201.2 km/h))† | Slalom | 75.2 mph (121 km/h)††† | |
| Lateral acceleration | 1.00 G Gravitational constant The gravitational constant, denoted G, is an empirical physical constant involved in the calculation of the gravitational attraction between objects with mass. It appears in Newton's law of universal gravitation and in Einstein's theory of general relativity. It is also known as the universal... (200 feet (61 m) skidpad)†; 1.05 G‡ |
156 ft (47.5 m)† |
Insideline managed to acquire a LFA from Lexus] for one week and tested the LFA against the Porsche GT2 RS on the track including an impromptu grudge match on the drag strip. Both cars won 2 races each making it a draw. Insideline recorded a 0 - 60 mph in 3.9 seconds without launch control system and achieved the 1/4 mile 11.6 seconds at 124 mi/h. Lexus LFA circled the skidpad in 1.02 g and achieved one of the highest slalom speeds ever recorded at 75.2 mi/h. Insideline also managed to do 3 dyno runs on a dynojet dyno on the Lexus LFA, which resulted in LFA putting down 514 bhp to the wheels, which after factoring in RWD drivetrain loss turned out to be substantially higher than the 552 bhp at the crank factory specification.
Car and Driver
Car and Driver
Car and Driver is an American automotive enthusiast magazine. Its total circulation is 1.31 million. It is owned by Hearst Magazines, who purchased prior owner Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. in 2011...
track-tested the LFA in November 2010 while conducting a comparo versus Ferrari 599 HGTE. The test was conducted in Wales
Wales
Wales is a country that is part of the United Kingdom and the island of Great Britain, bordered by England to its east and the Atlantic Ocean and Irish Sea to its west. It has a population of three million, and a total area of 20,779 km²...
and recorded 0–60 mph (0–96.6 km/h) time of 3.6 seconds using the launch control system and a quarter mile of 11.7 seconds at 125 mi/h. Car and Driver
Car and Driver
Car and Driver is an American automotive enthusiast magazine. Its total circulation is 1.31 million. It is owned by Hearst Magazines, who purchased prior owner Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. in 2011...
noted that these acceleration numbers were quicker than those of Ferrari 599 HGTE. Motor Trend
Motor Trend
Motor Trend is an American automobile magazine. It first appeared in September 1949, issued by Petersen Publishing Company in Los Angeles, and bearing the tag line "The Magazine for a Motoring World". Petersen Publishing was sold to British publisher EMAP in 1998, who sold the former Petersen...
recorded a stopping distance from 60-0 mph in less than 94 ft (28.7 m), and pulled 1.05 g on their skidpad. Road and Track tested the LFA at 74.2 mi/h through the slalom and 1.04 g on the skidpad.
Lap times
Chief Engineer Haruhiko TanahashiHaruhiko Tanahashi
is a Japanese automotive engineer who was responsible for the design and construction of the Lexus LFA supercar. Tanahashi joined Toyota Motor Corporation in 1978 as a chassis engineer, and has since worked in new vehicle design for over 30 years. The LFA development program, begun as project...
mentioned during the world's press at the Nürburgring in Germany that the LFA has lapped the Nürburgring Nordschleife in "better than 7 minutes 20 seconds", although no further specifics were given to the record lap. The LFA appeared on Top Gear in January 2010, where its power lap of 1.22.8 was the quickest wet test lap ever recorded on the Top Gear test track
Top Gear Test Track
The Top Gear test track is used by the BBC automotive television programme Top Gear. It is located at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey, United Kingdom. The track was designed by Lotus Cars...
; it was 3 seconds faster than the nearest wet lap which was the four-wheel-drive Lamborghini Gallardo
Lamborghini Gallardo
The Lamborghini Gallardo is a sports car built by Lamborghini. The Gallardo is Lamborghini's most-produced model to date, with over 10,000 built in its first seven years of production...
. AutoWeek
AutoWeek
AutoWeek is a fortnightly automotive enthusiast publication based in Detroit, Michigan. One of 32 titles published by Crain Communications Inc, its parent company, AutoWeek is unique as the only consumer title among its sister publications....
on the Goodwood race track in an LFA, independently clocked a fastest lap time of 1:24.8 making it the fastest ever recorded lap on the race track so far and quicker than the third fastest recorded lap by 3 seconds in Nissan GTR of 1:27.7. The 2nd fastest recorded lap is also in a Lexus LFA of 1:27.65. PistonHeads
PistonHeads
PistonHeads is an online news site dedicated to the automotive industry. The site contains numerous related articles, a sportscar buying/selling facility and an internet forum.-History:...
on the Goodwood race track in an LFA clocked a fastest lap time of 1:27.65.
Motorsports France conducted a track test on the Lexus LFA
Lexus LFA
The Lexus LFA is a 2-seat exotic sports coupe produced by Lexus as a concept car, "halo" vehicle, racing prototype, and production model. It is the second model in the F marque line of performance vehicles from Lexus, following the IS F...
and ran a hotlap around the Circuit De Nevers resulting in a laptime of 1:20.6, which was the fastest ever recorded laptime on the race track despite the test having being conducted in 0 degree freezing temperatures. It was one of the very rare track tests where actual LFA launch control system was used resulting in a very fast 0 - 260 kilometre per hour in only 21.2 seconds. The KTM X-Bow
KTM X-Bow
The KTM X-Bow is the first car to be developed by Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM, in partnership with Kiska Design, Audi, and Dallara. The X-Bow uses a turbocharged direct injected TFSI engine manufactured by Volkswagen Group, which produces at 5500 rpm and of torque between 2000 and...
has a second fastest laptime of 1:21.2 followed by Nissan GTR at the third fastest ever lap time on the race track with a laptime of 1:21.5.
Sport Auto
Sport auto
sport auto is a German automobile magazine, established in 1969, published monthly by Motor Presse Stuttgart, based in Stuttgart.The magazine publishes its "Supertest" of cars, featuring the laptime at the Nordschleife...
in the September 2010 edition conducted an LFA supertest with a red LFA that had been used in several other tests in Europe and Horst Von Saurma conducted a hot lap
Hot lap
Hot lapping, or simply lapping, is a motorsport in which vehicles are driven around a race track without actually competing for a position or any other recording of performance. Multiple vehicles will be on the track typically, but no passing is allowed, nor any contact...
the LFA around Nurburgring. The LFA clocked the Nurburgring in 7:38. The LFA was wearing temporary Bridgestone S001 street tires since the LFA spec tires are still under development. Although the LFA lap time is slower than the chief engineer's "better than 7:20" claim, Sport Auto
Sport auto
sport auto is a German automobile magazine, established in 1969, published monthly by Motor Presse Stuttgart, based in Stuttgart.The magazine publishes its "Supertest" of cars, featuring the laptime at the Nordschleife...
cited LFA ran exactly the same lap time with the same driver as other major competitors like the Ferrari 458 Italia, the Corvette ZR1 with Michelin Pilot Sport 2 (PS2) tires and 2 seconds faster than the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, 2 seconds faster than the Porsche 911 (997.2) GT3, 4 seconds faster than the Lamborghini Murciélago LP-670 SV, 10 seconds faster than the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 and 9 seconds faster than the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano
Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano
The 599 GTB Fiorano is an Italian gran turismo produced by Ferrari. It is the brand's two-seat flagship, replacing the 575 M Maranello in 2006 as a 2007 model....
. All tests were conducted by the same driver, Horst von Saurma
Horst von Saurma
Horst von Saurma-Jeltsch is the chief editor of the German automobile magazine sport auto...
.
Auto Zeitung Germany in the August 2010 edition conducted a comparison between Lexus LFA and Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Around Contidrom race track, LFA turned a faster lap time by 1.8 seconds of 1:35.66 as compared to 1:37.50 of the SLS AMG. Although, the start sector both cars hit 204 kilometre per hour, LFA continuously hit higher speeds in the high speed sector, dynamic sector where agility and spontaneous reactions are measured eventually turning in faster lap. AutoZeitung raved about LFA's handling, chassis control and race car-like reflexes and response.
Auto Bild
Auto Bild
Auto Bild is a leading German automobile magazine. It is published by Axel Springer AG, and first appeared in 1986.AUTO BILD with its worldwide licensed editions, of which more than 7 million copies are sold every month, is published in 36 countries. Foreign editions include France's Auto Plus...
Germany in the September edition of 2010 in part 1 of the comparison conducted a head-to-head Nurburgring
Nürburgring
The Nürburgring is a motorsport complex around the village of Nürburg, Germany. It features a modern Grand Prix race track built in 1984, and a much longer old North loop track which was built in the 1920s around the village and medieval castle of Nürburg in the Eifel mountains. It is located about...
Supercomparo (longer 20.8 km version of the track)" versus Nissan GT-R
Nissan GT-R
The Nissan GT-R is a sports car produced by Nissan released in Japan on December 6, 2007, the United States on July 4, 2008, and the rest of the world in March 2009.-History:...
, Lamborghini Gallardo
Lamborghini Gallardo
The Lamborghini Gallardo is a sports car built by Lamborghini. The Gallardo is Lamborghini's most-produced model to date, with over 10,000 built in its first seven years of production...
LP570-4 Superleggera and Wiesmann
Wiesmann
Wiesmann is an automobile manufacturer in Germany. The company was founded in 1985 by the brothers Martin Wiesmann and Friedhelm Wiesmann . The cars are manufactured by hand in Dülmen...
GT MF5. Lexus LFA turned in the fastest Nurburgring lap time (7:38,85), which was faster by nearly 2 seconds than the Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera (7:40,76) and almost 5 seconds faster than the GT-R (7:43,65), 6 seconds faster than the SLS AMG and almost 12 seconds faster than the Wiesmann. The Nurburgring 20.8 km test driver Sascha Bert stated "LFA was built for the Nurburgring race track."
Battle of the Supercars did a head-to-head comparison of Audi R8 V10 with the Lexus LFA with Tanner Foust driving the LFA and Paul Tracy driving the R8 V10. LFA comprehensively was declared the winner by the presenter where LFA lapped the short 1-mile track 1 full second faster than the R8 V10 with a lap time of 48.9 for the LFA versus 49.9 R8 despite Tanner having difficulties launching the Lexus LFA in the 1-mile road course lap and also the standing mile drag race where LFA won despite a delayed launch (no launch control used for these runs). This test also saw LFA using launch control for the first time in the 0-100-0 mph test, which led to the LFA accelerating from 0 mi/h much faster than the R8 V10. The R8 V10 conventional brakes brought the car to a stop to 0 mph quicker than the LFA's ceramic carbon brakes. However, in the behind the scenes footage, it was shown the LFA's carbon brakes meant for hardcore track usage were not warmed up properly, which is essential for carbon brakes to perform at their best. In the successive run, R8 V10 brakes suffered massive brake fade increasing the distance 17 feet while LFA carbon brakes were consistently getting better braking shorter in every successive run. In every 0 - 100 mph sprint shown in the behind the scenes footage, LFA out-launched and out-accelerated the R8 V10. In the top speed, rolling start run on the 2 mi (3.2 km) runway, LFA hit a speed of 184.1 mi/h while the R8 V10 hit a speed of 185 mi/h. Tanner Foust explained there was no way to retract the LFA wing spoiler (deploys automatically at 50 mi/h) at high speeds increasing drag substantially, which had cost him 4 mi/h.
Reception
The LFA appeared on Top Gear in January 2010, when Richard Hammond drove the car and had rave reviews of it, and setting a record for the quickest wet test lap ever recorded on the Top Gear test track, faster than the Lamborghini Gallardo. However, it was noted that the LFA cost 3 times more than the Gallardo, and is £130,000 more than the Ferrari 599 GTB FioranoFerrari 599 GTB Fiorano
The 599 GTB Fiorano is an Italian gran turismo produced by Ferrari. It is the brand's two-seat flagship, replacing the 575 M Maranello in 2006 as a 2007 model....
but not faster than it; Jeremy Clarkson also noted that the 202 mph LFA costs 6 times more than the 193 mph Nissan GT-R
Nissan GT-R
The Nissan GT-R is a sports car produced by Nissan released in Japan on December 6, 2007, the United States on July 4, 2008, and the rest of the world in March 2009.-History:...
but is not 6 times faster. In response, Evos review of the LFA pointed out that the performance of "a Bugatti Veyron
Bugatti Veyron
The Bugatti Veyron EB 16.4 is a mid-engined grand touring car. The Super Sport version is the fastest road-legal production car in the world, with a top speed of . The original version has a top speed of...
is not 12 times more than the GT-R", with reviewer Chris Harris observing that no cars are 6 times more than a GT-R either.
Car and Driver
Car and Driver
Car and Driver is an American automotive enthusiast magazine. Its total circulation is 1.31 million. It is owned by Hearst Magazines, who purchased prior owner Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. in 2011...
concluded in its review of the LFA and its performance that the carbon-fiber supercar rated as a "bargain" compared to the more expensive Enzo Ferrari and Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is an Anglo-German grand tourer car jointly developed by Mercedes-Benz and McLaren Automotive, built in Portsmouth and the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, Surrey, England and sold from 2003 to 2009...
. In May 2010, Motor Trend
Motor Trend
Motor Trend is an American automobile magazine. It first appeared in September 1949, issued by Petersen Publishing Company in Los Angeles, and bearing the tag line "The Magazine for a Motoring World". Petersen Publishing was sold to British publisher EMAP in 1998, who sold the former Petersen...
ran the LFA through several track tests and praised its driving dynamics and performance. The LFA was often criticized for taking far too long to reach production, considering from development, to concept, to production was nearly a decade. The LFA has also been criticized for being sold at a price much higher than comparable super-cars. Many Toyota and Lexus enthusiasts were disappointed when Toyota announced the car would be limited to just 500 units and only sold to selected buyers chosen by Lexus. Though, Lexus has been criticized for LFAs steep pricing despite being sold-out, a very limited 500 units production run and very exotic and technological construction, it has been extremely well received by journalists where mostly track tests have yielded rave reviews by media and journalists.
The LFA appeared on Fifth Gear
Fifth Gear
Fifth Gear is a motoring television magazine show from the United Kingdom. Originally shown on Channel 5, the show is currently presented by Tiff Needell, Vicki Butler-Henderson, Jason Plato, Jonny Smith and Ben Collins...
with presenter Tiff Needell
Tiff Needell
Timothy "Tiff" Needell isa British racing driver and television presenter. He is best known as a former co-presenter of Top Gear and current co-presenter of Fifth Gear.-Biography:...
driving the car around the race track performing hotlaps, powerslides and power oversteers. Needell described in detail the high-tech engineering used in the car and highly praised the 4.8 Liter V10's power and sound as well. Tiff declared "people who purchased the LFA would be very happy when they get their cars". At the conclusion of the review, He concluded "for a weekend race track car, LFA is worth every penny".
In Top Gears comparison of the LFA with the Porsche GT3 RS, Lamborghini Superleggera, Ferrari 458 Italia and SLS AMG, the Stig praised the Lexus LFA and was quoted as saying it is an "Amazing track weapon, super-stiff chassis makes it extremely sensitive to inputs...V10 engine has power everywhere and delivery to make the most of that...brakes powerful but don't interfere...lots of grip in slow and fast corners..full balance into...through, out of corners. What's Lexus? Does it also make fridges?"
Car and Driver in November 2010 did a comparison test between Lexus LFA and Ferrari 599 GTB HGTE with the $30,000 additional handling package. The Lexus LFA won the comparison and was featured in full in the November 2010 magazine edition. Lexus LFA was generally favored in the review as the more hardcore sports car while the 599 GTB was viewed as the GT car. LFA out-accelerated the 599 HGTE from 0 - 60 mph and the 1/4 mile with times of 3.6 seconds and 11.7@125 mph respectively while the 599 HGTE recorded a 0 - 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and 1/4 mile in 11.8@125 mph. Both cars were tested using their full launch control systems. The reviewers praised the Lexus engine, technology, luxury, chassis and suspension calling it a 'rocketship'. Their comments on LFA were "The Lexus feels more athletic than the Ferrari, and its performance is more accessible, more immediately. The engine is remarkable. Austin noted: “They figured out the engine. It’s really strong, and then you hit about 6500 rpm and your eyes get all big as the power hits another level.” The only street-car engine that matches this one for smoothness, ecstatic noise, and power delivery is the 458 Italia’s". The conclusion of Car and Driver was "if Lexus puts this much passion in everyone of its cars, it will simply be unbeatable."
Evo UK compiled a Car of the year
Car of the Year
Car of the Year is a phrase usually considered to have been invented by Motor Trend magazine in the 1950s for their annual award for best American automobile...
for the year 2010 with "Best of the best" top 10 cars chosen including Ferrari 458 Italia, Porsche GT3 RS, Porsche GT2 RS, Lexus LFA, Lamborghini LP570-4, SLS AMG, Audi R8 V10, Lotus Evora
Lotus Evora
The Lotus Evora is a sports car produced by British car manufacturer Lotus. The car, which was developed under the project name Project Eagle, was launched as the Evora on 22 July 2008 at the British International Motor Show.- Development :...
, updated 2012 R35.2 Nissan GTR, Audi R8 V10. Lexus LFA was highly praised and placed in the top 4 with the Porsche GT3 RS, Ferrari 458 Italia and Porsche GT2 RS. Evo UK called LFA a "very very special car" and praised the engine as "extraordinarily stunning V10 that is only comparable to the V10 in Porsche Carrera GT". The SLS AMG was placed 5h and updated 2012 R35.2 Nissan GTR was placed 8th while Lamborghini LP570-4 was placed 9th. Lexus LFA was placed in the top 4th despite not completing the track tests as Evo UK had to return the LFA to Lexus because it had to be flown elsewhere.
Overall, all the testers at Evo UK overwhelmingly commented positvely about the Lexus LFA particularly its 4.8 Liter V10. Some of the notes in the article about the LFA were "There is nothing in the world like the Lexus LFA. It is more special and intriguing than the 458 and demonstrates an extraordinary level of passion and commitment. Bespoke and limited edition, it is also a genuine supercar that can scare the pants off you. This is mainly thanks to its extraordinary 552bhp 4.8-liter V10 that does everything a Carrera GT's does and then goes completely mad as it closes in on 9500rpm. Its uncompromising ride adds to the challenge, and it was generally agreed that it would have been a bit of a handful up on the moors,
but we were beguiled. "It's a beautiful thing, all the details, and it has the integrity and functionality of a Lexus. Feels like a step up from everything else here," said Meaden. "Very, very special," said Metcalfe. Thank you, Lexus." Chris Harris also noted "there is nothing else out there that has ever felt this special since the Macca F1".
GTspirit
GTspirit
GTspirit is a Weblog, founded in 2006. It provides the latest in luxury supercar, exotic car tuning and car culture news. GTspirit has expanded quickly, gaining worldwide recognition for providing daily news, information, road tests, videos and reports. GTspirit covers all major car shows from...
.com tested the LF-A in Monaco
Monaco
Monaco , officially the Principality of Monaco , is a sovereign city state on the French Riviera. It is bordered on three sides by its neighbour, France, and its centre is about from Italy. Its area is with a population of 35,986 as of 2011 and is the most densely populated country in the...
in May 2010 and gave it a positive review with quotes such as "The LFA is incredibly easy to drive. It communicates well, has a superb overall balance and the transparency of the options is an eye-opener. The choice between the racing setup and an all-day trip through a dense city is easily changed." and "the “I want one” feeling grew considerably ever single minute."
2008
A Lexus LF-A prototype was entered on 10 May 2008 on the NürburgringNürburgring
The Nürburgring is a motorsport complex around the village of Nürburg, Germany. It features a modern Grand Prix race track built in 1984, and a much longer old North loop track which was built in the 1920s around the village and medieval castle of Nürburg in the Eifel mountains. It is located about...
4 hour VLN
VLN
The VLN, properly the Veranstaltergemeinschaft Langstreckenpokal Nürburgring is an organisation of motorsport clubs of which each hosts one event of a ten-race series held on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, the "VLN Langstreckenmeisterschaft Nürburgring"...
endurance race. Despite being lapped 5 times and finishing 77th overall among over 200 teams, it surprisingly won the over 4000cc class SP8, as all other five class entrants, including a Porsche 997 Turbo and Aston Martin Vantage, failed to finish. The best lap time of the Lexus, on the 24.4 km version used in VLN, was 9:06 in 3rd of 23 laps, on par with old Porsche 996 GT3 Cup (class Cup3A), while the fastest SP8 cars managed 8:20s.
Lexus also took part in the 24 Hours Nürburgring
24 Hours Nürburgring
The 24 Hours Nürburgring is a touring car and GT endurance racing event on the Nürburgring Nordschleife . With a lap length of over , it allows the participation of more than 200 cars, and over 700 drivers.-Overview:...
on 24/25 May 2008, with four Japanese drivers including Akira Iida
Akira Iida
is a Japanese racing driver in the Super GT series, since 2002 affiliated with Toyota and Lexus. First driving in the series since 1994, Iida has won five races altogether and took one driver's title in 2002....
leading the team. The LF-A was involved in a crash just prior to the race and was hurriedly repaired in two hours to make the race. As car #14, it qualified 27th among 223 cars, and finished 7th in the SP8 class of 11 entrants, and 121st overall, with a best lap average speed of 163 kilometre per hour, compared to 175 kilometre per hour of the fastest cars.
2009
On 4 April 2009, a LF-A and a Lexus IS F entered by Gazoo Racing (which had already raced smaller cars in 2007 and 2008) finished first and second in the SP8 class in the ADAC-Westfalenfahrt VLN 4h endurance race, as all three other class entrants, a Gallardo, a Corvette and an Audi R8, failed to complete the race. In winning its second VLN 4h event, the LF-A improved its fastest lap time, with one driver completing 8:41 laps both in practice and in the race; by comparison, the fastest overall race laps were 8:27 by a Dodge Viper and a Porsche 997 Cup S, both of the new SP9 class, which is close to FIA-GT3.The LF-A was subsequently entered into the 24 Hours Nürburgring race for the manufacturer stated purpose of obtaining feedback for fine-tuning production versions along with training of support technicians. Gazoo registered two LF-As and a single IS F in the SP8 class (4000cc to 6200cc), as the LF-A racecars were powered by a 4.8-liter (4805cc) V10 engine with a 9000 rpm redline.
At the 2009 24 Hours of Nürburgring
2009 24 Hours of Nürburgring
The 2009 ADAC Zurich 24 Hours of Nürburgring is the 37th running of the 24 Hours of Nürburgring. It took place over May 23–24, 2009. Manthey Racing's #1 Porsche claimed honours in the SP7 class and was the overall victor, completing 155 laps over the 24 hours. Team Abt Sportsline and their #97 Audi...
endurance race held on May 23/24, the No. 15 LF-A driven by Jochen Krumbach, Armin Hahne
Armin Hahne
Armin Hahne is a German racing driver, best known for his exploits in touring car racing. The highpoint of his career was winning both the 1982 and 1983 Spa 24 Hours driving BMW's. Another highlight of his career was driving in the factory supported Tom Walkinshaw Racing run Jaguar Racing team...
, Andre Lotterer
André Lotterer
André Lotterer is a German auto racing driver.- Racing career :Lotterer succeeded in both German and British Formula 3 championships en route to being named Jaguar Racing's Formula One test driver in 2002...
, and Hiromu Naruse
Hiromu Naruse
Hiromu Naruse was the Japanese chief test driver, chief test engineer of Toyota Motor Corporation and chief of the Gazoo Racing team. Naruse had been a test driver for the Toyota team for 47 years . He was also noted as the chief test driver of the Lexus LFA supercar...
achieved sub-9min laps and a best time of 8:50.458, which was the fastest time in the SP8 class, with a best lap speed of 172 kilometre per hour;. The fastest times by the race leaders (SP9 class) were in the 8:40 range with a best lap speed of 176 kilometre per hour. About 90 minutes from race completion, the No. 15 LF-A experienced a separated driveshaft and a fire which poured white smoke from the vehicle's rear section. The No. 14 LF-A completed the race and was ranked 4th in its class and 87th overall, behind the 3rd ranked No. 16 IS F During the early portions of the race the No. 14 LF-A recorded its peak position of 14th overall. One of the drivers of the No. 14 car was Toyota's new CEO Akio Toyoda
Akio Toyoda
is the president and CEO of Toyota Motor Corporation.He received his MBA from Babson College.- Career :Akio Toyoda joined Toyota in 1984. In 2000 he joined Toyota's board of directors. In 2005 he was promoted to executive vice president....
, who also met Aston Martin's President and fellow race entrant Ulrich Bez
Ulrich Bez
Dr. Ulrich Bez is a German-businessman and currently CEO of Aston Martin motorcars.-Life:He holds a doctorate in engineering from the University of Stuttgart...
at the race before deciding to build the Aston Martin Cygnet
Aston Martin Cygnet
The Aston Martin Cygnet is a 2+2 marketed by Aston Martin beginning with model year 2011 as a rebadged variant of the Toyota iQ. The Cygnet enables Aston Martin to comply with the European Union-imposed fleet average emissions regulations taking effect in 2012.The Aston Martin Cygnet is a 2+2...
together.
2010
Lexus/Gazoo again entered two cars in the 2010 24 Hours of Nürburgring, in the SP8 class over 4000cc. The “Balance of Performance” required a minimum weight of 1500 kg, a restrictor diameter of 34.2 mm, and a fuel tank size of 120 liter. The No. 50 car won its class, and finished 18th overall with 142 laps, 12 laps down. The No. 50 car, with 4 Japanese drivers, did a fastest lap of 8:55.934 (average of 170.470 km/h), which was over 20 seconds slower than the top 10 challengers, and slower than last year's performance.The Chief Test Driver/Engineer Hiromu Naruse
Hiromu Naruse
Hiromu Naruse was the Japanese chief test driver, chief test engineer of Toyota Motor Corporation and chief of the Gazoo Racing team. Naruse had been a test driver for the Toyota team for 47 years . He was also noted as the chief test driver of the Lexus LFA supercar...
, who coached the 2010 LFA race team, died in a tragic accident on June 23, 2010 testing the Nurburgring Edition of the Lexus LFA on the roads local to the Nordschleife in Germany. According to police reports, the traffic accident occurred when his LFA Nürburgring Edition test prototype veered into oncoming traffic, colliding head-on with a BMW 3 series near the Nürburgring, at Boos
Boos, Mayen-Koblenz
Boos is a municipality in the district of Mayen-Koblenz in Rhineland-Palatinate, western Germany....
. The BMW was also a test vehicle, both occupants were injured, one severely; both were expected to survive. All three test drivers wore helmets.
Sculpture models
In April 2005, Lexus presented a sculptural model of the original LF-A concept at that year's Milan Design WeekSalone del Mobile
The Milan Furniture Fair is a furniture fair held annually in Milan. It is the largest trade fair of its kind in the world. The show showcases the latest in furniture and design from countries around the world....
exhibition in Milan, Italy. Part of the marque's introductory display of its L-finesse design theme, the full-size LF-A model was presented next to a production Lexus GS
Lexus GS
The Lexus GS is a series of mid-size luxury sports sedans / executive cars sold by Lexus since 1993. Designed to fill the gap between the ES and LS, and to provide Lexus with a performance sedan to compete in the mid-luxury class, three generations of the GS have been produced to date...
model, in a design space produced by painter Hiroshi Senju
Hiroshi Senju
Hiroshi Senju is a Japanese painter known for his large scale waterfall paintings. These waterfall paintings often focus at the base of the waterfall where the falls crash into the pool below, usually cropping out the top of the falls...
, designer Junya Ishigami, and architect Kazuyo Sejima. The sculpted LF-A model followed the first introduction of the LF-A concept at the North American International Auto Show in January of that year. In contrast with the production GS sedan it shared the display space with, the LF-A model did not have interior access.
In April 2009, Lexus presented an acrylic glass sculpture LFA model, called 'Crystallised Wind', at that year's Milan Design Week exhibition at the Museo della Permanente art gallery in Milan. Commissioned in partnership with architect Sou Fujimoto, the full-sized LFA crystal sculpture had a transparent appearance, allowing viewers to see the engine, chassis, interior, and other internal components. Although closely resembling the 2007 coupe concept, design elements on the LFA Crystallised Wind model differed from previous iterations of the coupe, with five-spoke wheels, different headlamp shapes, and other separate details. The vehicle was presented along with a collection of accessories, gadgets, and styling products all produced from the same acrylic materials used in the Crystallised Wind model.
Awards
In October 2009, the debut of the Lexus LFA was named among Road & Tracks Best of the 2009 Tokyo Auto Show. For his role in leading its development project, Top GearTop Gear (magazine)
Top Gear is an automobile magazine published by BBC Worldwide, and named after the BBC's Top Gear television show. It was first published in October 1993 and is published monthly at a price of £3.95. The major presenters of the television series—Richard Hammond, James May and Jeremy Clarkson—are...
awarded Lexus LFA chief engineer Haruhiko Tanahashi as one of its Men of the Year for 2009 along with Sébastien Loeb
Sébastien Loeb
Sébastien Loeb is a French rally driver currently driving for the Citroën World Rally Team in the World Rally Championship...
, Jenson Button
Jenson Button
Jenson Alexander Lyons Button MBE is a British Formula One driver currently signed to McLaren. He was the 2009 World Drivers' Champion.Button began karting at the age of eight and achieved early success, before progressing to car racing in the British Formula Ford Championship and the British...
, Barack Obama
Barack Obama
Barack Hussein Obama II is the 44th and current President of the United States. He is the first African American to hold the office. Obama previously served as a United States Senator from Illinois, from January 2005 until he resigned following his victory in the 2008 presidential election.Born in...
, and others. In April 2010, the LFA topped the Stiff Magazine list of the Top 5 V10 Road Cars. In its 2010 test of the LFA, Car gave the vehicle the magazine's maximum rating of five stars. The LFA was also named to the Top Gear 100 Sexiest Supercars of All Time list in 2010. Top Gear
Top Gear (magazine)
Top Gear is an automobile magazine published by BBC Worldwide, and named after the BBC's Top Gear television show. It was first published in October 1993 and is published monthly at a price of £3.95. The major presenters of the television series—Richard Hammond, James May and Jeremy Clarkson—are...
magazine in its September 2010 edition picked "5 greatest supercars of the year" and the LFA was honored as one of the greatest supercars of the year along with Porsche GT3 RS, Lamborghini Superleggera, Ferrari 458 Italia and SLS AMG. All 5 cars were featured in the magazine in a side by side comparison and LFA was picked as the "Stig's most favorite supercar".
Evo UK in its January 2011 edition held a "best engine of the year" selection. Lexus LFA's 4.8 Liter V10 was selected as the "best engine of the year" over SLS AMG's V8, 458 Italia's V8, GTR's V6, LP570-4 and R8's V10, Porsche GT2 RS and GT3 RS' flat-6, Evora's V6 and Focus RS500's inline-5 engines. Some of the comments regarding the Lexus LFA's V10 were "A mix of road and racing engines: Lexus LFA's utterly intoxicating 4.8 Liter V10.", "There is the noise it makes, for a start, a dense shriek like a V10 F1 car's", "Then there's the wall of torque from 5000 rpm to 9000 rpm and a strong thrust even before that", "Lighter than an average V6 and it even meets the Euro 5 emission standards", "It is hard to imagine that such an engine's career will be over when all the LFAs are built, given the love that has gone into it. We certainly hope not".
The LF-A Roadster concept received an iF product design award
IF product design award
The iF Product Design Award was introduced in 1954 and is annually conferred by the iF International Forum Design. Every year the iF attracts more than 2,000 product entries from around 37 nations, which are judged by renowned experts, with the best of them receiving an iF seal of outstanding...
from the International Forum Design
International Forum Design
iF International Forum Design GmbH is a Hanover-based organization providing design-related services. International Forum Design was launched in 2001 as the operative business arm of design promotion company iF Industrie Forum Design Hannover e.V....
organization in 2008, and the first LF-A concept was a recipient of an IDEA award from the Industrial Designers Society of America
Industrial Designers Society of America
Industrial Designers Society of America is an organization of professional industrial designers primarily in the United States. Recently IDSA has started chapters in Canada and in China...
in the Design Explorations category of 2005's International Design Excellence Awards. The LFA was also a finalist in the 2009 Car Design of the Year and the Festival Automobile International's "most beautiful supercar of the year” awards.
Gaming
This car is featured in Forza Motorsport 4 and is downloadable content for Forza Motorsport 3Forza Motorsport 3
Forza Motorsport 3 is a racing video game developed for Xbox 360 by Turn 10 Studios. It was released in October . It is the sequel to Forza Motorsport 2 and the third installment in the Forza Motorsport series...
. In late 2010, Polyphony Digital
Polyphony Digital
Polyphony Digital, Inc. is an internal video game developing company of Sony Computer Entertainment and is part of Sony Computer Entertainment Worldwide Studios...
, game developers for Sony Computer Entertainment
Sony Computer Entertainment
Sony Computer Entertainment, Inc. is a major video game company specializing in a variety of areas in the video game industry, and is a wholly owned subsidiary and part of the Consumer Products & Services Group of Sony...
announced that the Lexus LFA would make an appearance in Gran Turismo 5
Gran Turismo 5
is the fifth edition of the Gran Turismo racing video game series. Developed by Polyphony Digital and published by Sony Computer Entertainment, it was released for PlayStation 3 on November 24, 2010...
on the PlayStation 3
PlayStation 3
The is the third home video game console produced by Sony Computer Entertainment and the successor to the PlayStation 2 as part of the PlayStation series. The PlayStation 3 competes with Microsoft's Xbox 360 and Nintendo's Wii as part of the seventh generation of video game consoles...
game console. The Lexus LFA will be one of over 1,000 cars featured in the game. The Lexus LFA is also featured in the game Shift 2: Unleashed
Shift 2: Unleashed
Shift 2: Unleashed is a racing video game, the 17th title in the Need for Speed franchise. It was developed by Slightly Mad Studios and published by Electronic Arts...
.
External links
- Lexus-LFA.com Global Website
- Lexus LFA UK Website
- Lexus.com LF-A
- Lexus.eu LF-A
- http://www.pistonspy.com/v/2010/Spyshots/21-09-2010-lexus-lfa-nurburgring-edition/ Lexus LFA Nurburgring Package Spyshots.
- Lexus LFA 2010 Test Drive Video & Pictures