Two facets captivate me concerning the Lexus LFR, while a single aspect generates apprehension.
New Lexus Flagship Sports Car: A Modern Grand Tourer with a Powerful Engine
The automotive world is abuzz with excitement as Toyota and Lexus prepare to unveil their upcoming flagship sports car. This new model, which is expected to make its debut by 2027, will feature a groundbreaking twin-turbo V-8 engine, marking a first for both Toyota and Lexus in production cars[2].
Unlike the next-generation Toyota GR Supra, which is rumoured to use a new 2.0-liter turbo-four with hybrid assist, the Lexus LF-A successor will be powered by a more potent engine, capable of producing over 800 horsepower[1]. The exact output may be reduced due to emissions regulations, but the LFR's engine alone is expected to produce 700 horsepower[3].
The design of the new sports car draws clear influences from Lexus's own heritage, particularly the legendary Lexus LFA supercar. The concept features exotic proportions, flying buttresses, and design elements reminiscent of the LFA, along with a modernized aerodynamic approach[1][5]. Key design highlights include a wide, low-profile two-door form, L-shaped LED headlights, sculpted fenders, sharp lower bumpers, and a large rear diffuser with a glowing Lexus badge.
Contrary to some speculation, the design of the new Toyota sports car does not bear a striking resemblance to the 1990s Mazda FD RX-7[1]. The narrative focuses on Lexus’s own design evolution and lineage rather than borrowing from Mazda’s iconic RX7 design[1][2][4].
Toyota's road-going variant of the flagship sports car's pricing has not been officially announced yet. However, the Lexus LFR GT3 race car, a pre-production model unveiled at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, is expected to start at $550,000, making it the most expensive Lexus ever made, even more expensive than the LF-A's original $375,000 sticker price[3].
As for the partnership between Toyota and Mazda, it is well-known that they are currently collaborating on several projects. It remains unclear if Toyota's version will be a homologation for the Lexus LFR GT3 race car or if Mazda's upcoming flagship rotary sports car is expected to share hardware with Toyota and Lexus[4].
Dimitar Angelov, an expert in automotive news with a passion for Japanese brands like Toyota and performance cars, has been closely following these developments. You can find his insights on various social media platforms such as X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook[6].
References:
- Automotive News
- Electric Vehicle News and Reviews
- Performance Vehicles
- TorqueNews Hot Topics
- Lexus
- Toyota
Image source: Automotive Mike via YouTube.
The luxury automotive industry is eagerly anticipating the entry of Toyota and Lexus's flagship sports car, particularly due to its powerful, twin-turbo V-8 engine, a first in both Toyota and Lexus's production cars. The car's design is rooted in Lexus's own rich heritage, evidenced by design elements reminiscent of the legendary Lexus LFA supercar. Interestingly, the pricing for Toyota's road-going variant is yet to be announced, while the Lexus LFR GT3 race car, a pre-production model, is expected to start at $550,000, making it the most expensive Lexus ever made.
