Lexus wants $100,000-plus flagship supercar; version of LF-A concept likely to be built

MARK RECHTIN | Automotive News
Posted Date: 1/19/05

Seeking to enter the rarified world of super high performance, Lexus Division unveiled the LF-A concept at the Detroit auto show.

Executives say the concept is still in the consideration phase, but such statements are made with a wink. When pressed, Toyota sources said the sports car likely would appear in about three years, when Lexus’ upcoming product barrage hits a lull.

“The Lexus brand has reached a point where we can step up a bit, but we need to keep in mind what got us here,” said Denny Clements, Lexus Division general manager.

Toyota also wants to promote its entry into Formula 1 racing. But this car would be too expensive to carry a Toyota badge, executives said.

Jim Press, COO of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. Inc., compares the LF-A’s performance to that of a Porsche 911 Turbo, Ferrari F430 and Aston Martin DB9.

Lexus engineers said the engine would either be a V8 or V10, depending on potential rule changes made by the Formula 1 bosses. Press said the engine will have more than 500 hp from an engine displacing less than five liters.

Test cars have reached top speeds of around 200 mph at Toyota’s Arizona proving ground.

The LF-A rides on a wheelbase of 103 inches, and is 173 inches long.

If produced, the vehicle would cost more than $100,000.

A Toyota source says the car will not have a hybrid powertrain.