Lexus LF-A concept previews production supercar

Newswheel staff :: 11 January 2007 :: Filed under Coupe, Front engine sportscar, Lexus, Lexus LF-A, Europe & UK, US

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V10 monster getting closer

First shown in concept form at the Detroit show two years ago, Lexus’s various development versions of the LF-A V10 supercar have been seen banging in laps at the usual test facilities for around 18 months.  Now the Japanese luxury brand has prepped a new concept revision that is said to be extremely close to the final series production variant …

The shape of things to come: Lexus says the latest LF-A concept is very close to the final production car (click for high res imagery)

According to senior Lexus suit Bob Carter, "the first LF-A was a pure concept, but one that we went so far as to conduct engineering analysis on. This latest concept is much closer to a vehicle that we would bring to market, and one in which we will be gauging consumer interest."

The LF-A may not be a subtle beauty, but it doesn’t lack drama and delivers a satisfyingly Gran Tourismo / Japanese techno vibe

Tech specs for this 500bhp-plus, 200mph front-engine ubercar remain under review, but a glimpse of Lexus’s commitment to produce a serious driving tool can be seen courtesy of the rear-mounted gearbox and radiators. Lexus has also said a top speed in excess of 200mph is probable.

The LF-A is expected to go on sale late next year.