Pursuing The Halo: 2012 Lexus LF-A
by Gunnar Heinrich ::: img Lexus USA ::: Lexus LF-A
WHY not? When Lexus announced its agenda to bring us its own exotic, some (yours truly included) scoffed.
Scoffed at the very notion that Lexus could construct a convincing sports car. A rival to Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche.
Others took a more charitable view: if Mercedes sells a supercar (SLS AMG) why not Lexus?
Remember the Toyota Supra? The genes seem present in this design.
The MK IV Supra (1993-2002) was a rounded blade that carved Toyota’s inroads into racing and sports car lore. Lexus, unlike Acura and the NSX, never featured its own performance front runner. Toyota’s luxury division’s relentless pursuit of perfection focused on removing the driver from the experience of…well…driving.
That is, apparently, until now.
The figures are exotic: ten cylinders in v-formation making 412 hp with 480 torques @ a lofty 6800 rpm. Howling, too: the LF-A’s V10 hits the wall at 9000 rpm.Weight is relatively checked by contemporary standards – 3,400 lbs.
Nought to 60: 3.4 seconds. Five hundred units will be produced each served to the customer for approx. $375,000. These characteristics make a super car, no question.
But the question remains: should this be Lexus’ “halo”? Shouldn’t a limo – Maybach-like – that’s higher in status and stuffed with more kit than the LS600hL be Lexus’ shining star? Much like the randomly conceived VW Phaeton?
Whatever the case, the LF-A is here. And why not?
About the Author: Gunnar Heinrich is publisher of Automobiles De Luxe online and is executive producer of the Automobiles De Luxe Television series on PBS member station CPTV.
Neil | May 19, 2010 | Reply
I’m liking the design and the exhaust arraignment. It is no doubt sexy, the 2nd Gen will most likely hit the nail on the head.
G | May 19, 2010 | Reply
I bet the LF-A would go well in your garage, Neil