Lexus is preparing to launch a new V8-engined supercar that will compete with the Aston Martin Vantage and Mercedes-AMG GT. This new model is seen as a spiritual successor to the iconic LFA. The prototype of this car, based on Toyota’s GT3 GR concept, has been spotted running at Spa-Francorchamps. Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division is expected to have it ready for top-flight competition, including the Le Mans 24 Hours, by 2026.
According to FIA homologation rules, any GT3 racer must share its basic body design with a related road car. Therefore, a toned-down version of the GT3 GR is expected to be available in showrooms within the next two years. It is likely that the road-going version will bear the Lexus badge, in line with the premium brand’s history of large-engined sports cars.
The prototype of this new supercar features a highly strung V8 engine, possibly with twin turbochargers. The road car, potentially named LFR, is expected to share this engine but with the addition of hybrid assistance. While specifications have not been released, GT3 regulations allow for flexibility, with cars producing approximately 500-600bhp and weighing no more than 1300kg.
Toyota has recently announced plans to revolutionize the packaging of the internal combustion engine (ICE), along with Mazda and Subaru. Despite the global shift towards electric cars, Toyota believes that ICE technology will continue to play a role in the future of cars, especially in sports cars. The company has heavily invested in sustainable fuel development and has even partnered with Yamaha to create a hydrogen-compatible 5.0-litre V8, which could potentially be used in this new sports car.
Masahito Watanabe, Gazoo Racing boss, has stated that Toyota is pursuing a “multi-pathway” approach for sports cars and is not solely focused on electrification. He believes that the internal combustion engine still has potential, especially with the possibility of hydrogen combustion. This suggests that Toyota is committed to exploring different technologies to achieve zero-emissions.
Lexus has retired its RC and LC coupés in Europe, but the company has not officially commented on plans for replacements. However, the Electrified Sport concept revealed in 2021 showcases Lexus’ commitment to performance cars. Though this concept is electric, it shares its carbon fiber monocoque underpinnings with Toyota’s GR GT3 concept. This suggests the possibility of Lexus offering two closely related supercars, based on the same chassis but with different powertrains, within the next five years.
In conclusion, Lexus is preparing to launch a new V8-engined supercar that will rival the Aston Martin Vantage and Mercedes-AMG GT. This car, seen as a spiritual successor to the LFA, is based on Toyota’s GT3 GR concept and is expected to be available in showrooms within the next two years. Despite the global shift towards electric cars, Toyota believes in the potential of the internal combustion engine, especially in sports cars. Lexus has not officially announced plans for replacements for its retired coupés but has showcased its commitment to performance cars through the Electrified Sport concept. With the possibility of offering two closely related supercars, Lexus is poised to make a strong impact in the sports car market in the coming years.