Lexus LF-A is Unveiled at Tokyo Motor Show

The long awaited Lexus LF-A is here. The production version of the Lexus super-car is unveiled at Tokyo Motor Show.

The LF-A programme was launched in 2000 and the first LF-A prototype was completed in 2003 before the concept’s public debut at the Detroit Motor Show. In 2008 and 2009 the LFA was entered in the Nurburgring 24-hour race for testing purposes.

The naturally aspirated 4.8-litre V10 engine delivers 552bhp and a maximum torque of 354lb-ft at 6,800rpm. The 0-62mph time is given as 3.7 seconds and the top speed as 202mph.

The engine is mated to a six-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox (ASG) which has four driving programs: Auto, Sport, Normal and Wet, all activated by a dial on the dashboard.

Lexus decided on using advanced carbon fiber reinforced plastic for the chassis and bodywork unlike many other super cars that utilize light-weight aluminium. Lexus states that this saved over 200 pounds over an equivalent aluminium body.

The reinforced plastic accounts for 65% of the body, with aluminium alloy used for the remaining 35%. With a curb weight of 3,315 lbs the car has a power-to-weight ratio of 6lbs per bhp.

Inside, the LFA features seats upholstered in leather and Alcantara, trim details in brushed metal and the brake and throttle pedals in forged aluminium.

The LF-A will be hand-assembled at the Motomachi plant in Toyota City and only 20 cars will be built per month. As introduced by AMG, each V10 engine will be assembled by a single engineer, and will bear his signature when it comes off the production line.

This exclusive super-car (only 500 examples will be built) will cost over $350,000 when it goes on sale next year.