Automotive Ideas

Yes, Lexus and supercar can now be used in the same sentence, thanks to some bravado in the upper ranks, and the impeccable engineering skills to not only pull it off, but to excel with their very first attempt.

In the past, Lexus has always developed and delivered luxury-there were never any doubts there. Yet there is a phenomenal gap between a luxury car and a luxury supercar, and this becomes clear the instant the Lexus LFA’s unique V10 engine begins to sing.

The carbon fiber body was specifically engineered not for the sole purpose of aesthetics, but to manipulate superior acoustics from the 4.8-liter V10 engine. According to Lexus, it is challenging to engineer a V10 to sound as pleasing as a V8 or V12, and for that reason the body of the supercar includes special air intake sections to balance the acoustics.

The official launch of this first ever Lexus supercar took place at the Tokyo Motor Show, with the North American Introduction occurring the same day in Miami, Florida.

The press members at the North American Introduction for the LFA were fortunate enough to obtain not only the opportunity to stay at South Beach’s luxurious Mondrian Hotel, but to actually drive this phenomenal supercar on the Homestead Race Track. This is where the distinction became apparent between a luxury sedan and a supercar-with 552 horsepower hitting the 0-60 mark in 3.6 seconds. The Lexus LFA tops out at approximately 202 miles per hour, with $10,000 brakes that are up for the challenge.

For a first attempt, Lexus certainly seems comfortable and confident in their new endeavors, and a welcomed addition to the realm of the supercar. The LFA is expected to come with a price tag of approximately $375,000. Lexus will only make 500 of the LFA supercars, and first deliveries are scheduled for 2011.

About the Author

Lexus By Ryan Safady Platinum Quality Author