Tokyo 2009: Lexus reveals $375,000 LFA supercar...finally [w/VIDEO]
by Drew Phillips on Oct 21st 2009 at 2:12AM 
2011 Lexus LFA - Click above for high-res image gallery
It seems like the Lexus LFA has been around forever. In reality, the first concept version was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show in 2005, but that's a long time in the automotive world. Additional concepts followed in 2007 and 2008, and the on-off rumors of a production version haven't help. Nevertheless, the production version of the LFA is finally here at the Tokyo Motor Show, and it is glorious. All of which makes it harder to stomach that the car shown here isn't expected to reach customer garages until early 2011.
The specifications of the new rear-drive Lexus supercar are impressive enough: a 4.8-liter V10 with 560 ps (552 bhp), 354 lb-ft torque, a zingy 9,000 rpm redline, six-speed sequential gearbox, 0-62 mph in 3.7 seconds, and a top speed of 202 mph. It looks amazing too, both in pictures and in person.
Of course, we can't help but make comparisons to the current reigning Japanese supercar, the Nissan GT-R. At just 3,263 pounds, the LFA easily has a better power-to-weight ratio, but that hasn't seemed to stop the all-wheel drive juggernaut before. Then there is the small matter of cost to consider. Unlike the GT-R, which is considered a performance bargain, the LFA will be exclusive – and costly. Only 500 units will be produced at a cost of...drum roll please....$375,000. Despite the colossal price tag, we hear that Lexus expects to take a loss on each one.
Will the LFA be worth the high cost? We should be able to tell you soon, as our man Damon Lavrinc will be getting some time behind the wheel of a prototype later this week. Until then, you can check out some amazing video of the LFA after the jump and live photos in the high-res galleries below.
Gallery: Tokyo 2009: 2011 Lexus LFA
Gallery: Lexus LFA
Live Photos copyright ©2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.
PRESS RELEASE:
Tokyo, October 21, 2009 - Lexus announces today the official launch of the LFA, a two-seat supercar scheduled to go into production at the end of 2010 as the pinnacle of the Lexus "F" premium sports car series. Pre-sales start today.
Ultra-responsive and extremely stable even when taken to the edge, the LFA creates a sense of reassurance that opens up a new world of driving emotion, exhilarating the senses to move the driver in more ways than one.
The LFA combines high output, superb chassis design and meticulous aerodynamics to achieve instantaneous total-vehicle response characterized by high-rev, seamless acceleration echoed by a self-defining resonance from its 4.8-liter V10.
Only 500 units of the LFA are to be produced and sold worldwide.
A prototype of the LFA is now on display at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show, which is open to the general public from October 24 to November 4 at Makuhari Messe in Makuhari, Chiba Prefecture.
1. Packaging brings out the most in fundamental performance
Strong and light
The newly developed 4.8-liter V10 engine boasts exceptional power, while lightweight materials (aluminum alloy, magnesium alloy and titanium alloy) and a very compact size (smaller than a conventional V8) allows for optimal weight distribution and an exceptional power-to-weight ratio.
Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) cabin enhances high body-rigidity and reduces weight. This unique cabin is 100kg lighter than a comparable aluminum cabin. Detailed analysis and precise matching of CFRP materials allows for high rigidity and low weight. LFA CFRP production technology, including unique CFRP-to-metal joining, was completely developed by Lexus.
Balanced
Relatively higher weight components such as the engine and transmission are placed within the wheelbase. A low center of gravity is made possible by the use of dry sump lubrication1, along with placing peripheral components (oil pump, water pump) behind the engine. Furthermore, optimal placement of the transmission and the fuel tank in front of the rear axle adds to this application of centralized mass. This minimizes weight shift during cornering and contributes to outstanding performance and stability. Lighter weight components, like the radiator and electric fans, are placed behind the rear axle.
Combined with a front-engine and rear-wheel-drive configuration, the short, wide and low body allows the LFA to achieve its target front-to-rear weight distribution of 48:52.
Driver-centered
The driver's seat is positioned near the LFA's center of gravity. The centralized seating concept (with the seat between the front and rear axles and closer to the left–right center) is made possible by the use of a rear transaxle and vertically stacked torque tube and exhaust pipes reducing the width of the center tunnel. The driver placement is aimed to provide maximum car-to-driver feedback, especially under sport or high G-force driving conditions.
2. Emotive performance embodies an extraordinary driving experience
High–rev engine
Titanium valves, ultra–light weight rocker arms with a diamond–like coating and a fully integrated lower crankcase that reduces pumping losses at high RPMs combine to provide the driver with overwhelming acceleration right up to the 9,000rpm redline. The LFA's purpose-built V10 delivers 90% of its peak torque between 3,700rpm and 9,000rpm.
Precise Response
Independent, electronically controlled throttle bodies ensure precise air-feed to each of the 10 cylinders, enabling immediate engine response from the accelerator pedal. The engine response time is approximately half the normal response time of a single-throttle valve.
The six-speed ASG transmission features heavy-duty synchronizer rings and a newly developed gearshift actuator, providing the driver with a very direct shift feel. Four selectable driving modes and a seven-stage shift-speed selector that results in upshift speeds down to 0.2 seconds provide a higher level of driver control.
Track-sized high-performance (Carbon Ceramic) CCM brake discs and Electronically Controlled Braking system generate ultra-powerful yet stable braking.
Responsive handling and engaging dynamics
The very light and rigid CFRP cabin, combined with a front double-wishbone suspension and a rear multilink suspension, result in a very stable, controlled ride. Detailed aerodynamic engineering results in elements such as a flat underbody, a diffuser and a speed-controlled rear wing, which allows precise vehicle response at all vehicle speeds, thus creating unity between driver and machine.
Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management integrates numerous vehicle dynamic functions that provide a high level of vehicle stability and preventative safety without interfering with the driver's intentions, especially when sport driving.
Exciting engine sound and L-finesse2 design
Equal-length exhaust manifolds combined with an equal-length dual exhaust system routed through a multistage titanium main muffler fine tunes the exhaust note.
An acoustically tuned surge tank linked to 10 individual throttle bodies creates a powerful induction sound. The coordination of intake and exhaust sounds overlap at various RPMs to create a unique, exciting and inspired soundtrack.
The exterior design includes carefully tuned aerodynamics and airflow management. The use of CFRP, in addition to strength and weight advantages, frees up the design of the exterior panels allowing a fresh supercar L-finesse design. The interior design combines state-of-the-art instrument-panel design and technology, along with a variety of custom-tailored interior trim packages to suit the most discerning driver.
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 16)
vespid82 2:15AM (10/21/2009)
Glorious. :)
Reply
TonyInMI 2:18AM (10/21/2009)
Not so much.
airswingman 3:31AM (10/21/2009)
the commercial is better than the car. Don;t know how A lexus worth that much.
In my mind the brand still just an upgrade of toyota family sedan.
arturo 3:47AM (10/21/2009)
Ferrari f458 $220,000 4.5-liter V8 engine 570 horsepower at 9,000 rpm and 398 pound-feet of torque at 6,000 rpm
Lexus LFA $375,000 4.8 V10 552 horsepower and 352 pound-feet of torquee. at 9000 rpm.
Is there something i am missing here? with 375 K I can buy an f458 a viper, and a GTR all at the same time more or less.
tmiller1812 3:55AM (10/21/2009)
Gloriously ridiculous price for a Toyota :(
Tohe 5:30AM (10/21/2009)
On style alone the 458 Italia wins hands down. This PR move by Toyota can only be taken as a joke! it is NOT worth $375,000.
a7mado 6:17AM (10/21/2009)
@ arturo,
sometimes I feel that most of the people that comment on this blog are 16 year old's, did you even care on reading the post?, it said, Toyota will only produce 500 units, when it comes to cars that are going to be limited in production, demand usually exceeds supply, the Enzo Ferrari being a prime example, there are several entry level supercar's that could hang in with the Enzo Ferrari nowadays, but that hasn't in any way had an effect on the constantly appreciating price tag, hell, even Mazda could charge $50k for a special edition limited run MX5 and buyers will eventually come and in the case of the LFA, I have a strong feeling that demand will exceed supply, I hope that happens because this is with out a shadow of doubt a wonderful supercar, its the the perfect recipe, a relatively small front-mid-engined V10 that produces 552 hp in a car that weighs a bump over 3300 pounds, what else could you possibly want!.
Javanese 7:18AM (10/21/2009)
@ a7mado
Oh please, would you really pay $380,000 for a Toyota? Dont give me that it's a limited edition crap. McLaren originally planned to produce more than 300 F1s, I wonder why they only make 100? Didnt Bugatti admit that the demand of the Veyron was way below their expectation and thus decided they would only make 300 units, how's that going? Last I heard they still havent achieved their 300 target. In order to spur sales they keep punching out this ridiculous "special editions" which is really bunch of new paint jobs/cosmetics.
The case with enzo is a moot point, why? it's a Ferrari full stop. Lexus/toyota dont even stand on the same book, let alone the same page. Point me to a used japanese car (other than the ridiculously rare 2000GT) in the states that cost more than it was brand new (adjusted to inflation).
Bottom line, you've gotto be bonkers to pay that much money for a japanese car with no history or pedigree.
ripiopower 2:07PM (10/21/2009)
OMG"""" That car is crazy''
the interior is just sexy''
it looks like a very serious car''
Carlos 9:27AM (10/21/2009)
Being an enthusiast I still find it hard to believe why this costs almost 400k considering the performance. Even comparing it to Ferrari, Lamborghini, and McLaren it is over priced and doesn't perform, so in essence all your really paying for is a limited number.
Rick 9:44AM (10/21/2009)
I'd have a hard time paying that much for a mainstream luxury car and not an exotic. I'd rather buy a red and black R8 pair for the wife and I for less coinage.
Sal Collaziano 9:54AM (10/21/2009)
I agree with those who feel this car is overpriced.. Honestly, I think I'd rather have a Nissan GT-R.. I don't know. Almost $400,000.00? And they're LOSING money on every one? I just don't know...
Sal Collaziano
http://www.planetlexus.com
R Nair 10:04AM (10/21/2009)
@tmiller1812 - Lets check the logic:
Lexus = toyota then
Ferrari = Fiat!
It is an over priced piece of machine. All the exotics claim their price based on perceived brand value. I am not sure if Lexus can demand such a high price..
sparrk 10:10AM (10/21/2009)
lol @ a7mado , are you comparing a Toyota with a Ferrari Enzo ? really ?! that's funny ! cars like the Enzo are sold out before the production is officially announced and remain landmarks in automotive history. i bet in 10 years no one will remember this ugly Toyota.
ken_aisin 10:16AM (10/21/2009)
Reviewers who are going to test drive it will have their opinions on the price. It's too early to say that it's not worth $400K simply based on specs and the badge.
It's been a long time, but I'm happy to see Toyota finally bringing some driving fun back to its line-up.
Chazz 10:21AM (10/21/2009)
What's the point of designing a car like this, paying that much money then putting in a $12.00 floor mat that will have it accelerating out of control???
Rob 12:29PM (10/21/2009)
Sounds really awesome, I mean epically amazing. However, I'm still a bit on the fence with its looks, but it's grown on me a bit, and I've been a harsh critic of it before so I guess that's something. 375,000 somethings, though? Hmmmmm....
Turall 12:40PM (10/21/2009)
Don't get me wrong, I think this car is a fabulous thing. But...$375,000? for a Toyota??! This car should cost no more than an R8 5.2 (which I would prefer over this anyway).
375k can buy you lots of cars (should you choose to spend it on one car). SL65 Black Series. SLS AMG. SLR. Murcielago LP640 (possibly an SV). Carrera GT. TWO Ford GT's. Any new Ferrari. Heck, you can get a nice F40 for that price (my personal choice).
What's the difference there? All the cars I mentioned above have a racing pedigree. And they're not glorified Toyotas.
PiCASSO 12:41PM (10/21/2009)
That exhaust note gave me goose bumps. Seriously... although the $375k is expensive, the car itself is beautiful. I'm wondering exactly how this supercar will perform against the rest of the current supercar fleet.
Serge 12:58PM (10/21/2009)
@R Nair
Actually: your logic = FAIL!
Lexus started out as re-badged Toyotas and faux-Merces for the sole reason of selling a car for more money... nothing else.
Ferrari was first and foremost a race car company... the street cars they make are for race car funding. Besides that, those street cars are built at the same factory as F1 cars!!! and they are manufactured just like those cars... each individual car is hand-made from start to finish using state of the art manufacturing techniques and materials. No other car in the world is build like a Ferrari... Just because Fiat has shares in the company doesn't mean Ferrari = Fiat, however Lexus = Toyota!