Constructed using advanced carbon fibre technology, the rear-wheel drive Lexus LFA is powered by a bespoke, high-revving 552bhp 4.8-litre naturally aspirated V10 engine, matched to a rear-mounted six-speed sequential automatic transmission, giving 200mph-plus performance.
In the words of Chief Engineer Haruhiko Tanahashi: "The Lexus LFA is a thoroughbred supercar, a machine engineered to achieve a single goal - to deliver a supreme driving experience. Over the past decade we have pushed every boundary in pursuit of this goal and I believe we have created the most driver-orientated car we possibly could."
CARBON FIBRE CONSTRUCTION
Keeping the car's weight to an absolute minimum was one of the defining elements in the development of the Lexus LFA and this led to the decision to switch from using aluminium for the car's construction to advanced Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) for the chassis and bodywork.
Moreover, Lexus decided the CFRP structure should be built in-house rather than by a third-party supplier. In doing so, it drew on Toyota Motor Corporation's heritage in textile weaving technology to push the boundaries of its technical abilities, developing new carbon fibre looms and a laser system for monitoring the integrity of the material.
At four times the strength of aluminium, CFRP gives the Lexus LFA an exceptionally stiff and strong structure, and also delivers major weight advantages, saving around 100kg on an equivalent aluminium body. CFRP accounts for 65 per cent of the body-in-white, with aluminium alloy used for the remaining 35 per cent.
Unlike the few other vehicles on the market that use CFRP construction, the Lexus LFA uses the same advanced resin technology favoured by cutting-edge aerospace programmes for its unmatched weight and strength properties.
ENGINE
The heart of the Lexus LFA is a bespoke, naturally aspirated V10 engine that sets new standards for compact dimensions, lightweight architecture and scintillating performance. From the outset it was determined the engine should have a 4,805cc capacity, develop 552bhp and rev to a wailing 9,000rpm red line. A 72-degree angle between the cylinder heads is ideal for achieving balance in the engine for exceptionally smooth running, while providing individual, electronically controlled throttle bodies for each cylinder gives excellent throttle response.
Using a dry sump lubrication system allows the block to be positioned deep in the engine bay, lowering the car's centre of gravity and moment of inertia, and enabling the engine to handle sustained, high-speed cornering.
The V10 produces 480Nm of torque at 6,800rpm, 90 per cent of which is available from 3,700rpm all the way to the 9,000rpm red line, thanks to Dual VVT-i technology, equal length exhaust manifolds and high-volume, 12-hole fuel injectors. This gives searing in-hear acceleration at all engine speeds and in any gear: nought to 62mph takes just 3.7 seconds and maximum speed is 202mph.
With a kerb weight of 1,480kg, the Lexus LFA has a power to weight ratio of 373bhp per tonne, while specific output of 115bhp per litre is among the highest of any current supercar, aided by a high, 12:1 compression ratio, low friction internals and optimised intake and exhaust flow.
In spite of its potency, the V10 is an object lesson in compact and lightweight packaging, being about the same size as a regular V8 engine and weighing about as much as conventional V6. It is also as reliable and refined as any other Lexus power plan and exceeds Euro 5 emissions standards.
The engine was developed in conjunction with Yamaha through the established collaborative partnership between Toyota Motor Corporation and the Japanese specialist engineering company.
TRANSMISSION
The formidable performance of the V10 is managed through an equally advanced transmission, a purpose-designed six-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox (ASG) that drives the rear wheels via a limited slip differential. To help achieve the optimum 48:52 front-to-rear weight distribution, it is contained in a transaxle mounted over the rear axle.
The ASG is operated by paddle shifts mounted on the steering column and is engineered for exceptionally fast shifts: an upshift can be effected in just 0.2 seconds.
The system has four driving modes: Auto, Sport, Normal and Wet, activated by a selector dial on the dashboard. Each mode has a specific gearshift programme, and engine and brake control logic systems to let the driver tailor the car's performance to suit driving conditions.
SOUND
The Lexus LFA's acoustics, induction system and exhaust notes have been specially tuned to deliver an awesome "soundtrack" that expresses the car's extreme performance, both outside and inside the cabin. Referred to by the acoustic team as "Octave Harmony", it is inspired by the sound of a Formula 1 engine at full revs and is unlike that of any other road car, with different harmonic qualities created as the engine moves up towards its maximum 9,000rpm.
BRAKING
The Lexus LFA has one of the most advanced and powerful braking systems fitted to any production car, appropriate to meet the demands of its 200mph-plus performance capabilities.
The brake discs are made of Carbon Ceramic Material (CCM), which as well as being lighter than steel, gives fade-free performance in all conditions. The front discs are 390mm in diameter and 34mm thick, gripped by six-piston aluminium callipers; the rear discs measure 306mm across, are 28mm thick and are fitted with four-pot callipers. All use high-friction micron pads, manufactured exclusively for use with CCM brakes.
SUSPENSION, WHEELS AND TYRES
The track-tuned suspension is the result of intensive development work carried out by Lexus at the Nürburgring's Nordschleife circuit to give the best possible balance between control and comfort.
The bespoke wishbone front/multilink rear design makes extensive use of aluminium alloy for high strength and low weight, and the aluminium monotube dampers are the same as those Lexus used for its LFA race car in the Nurburgring 24-hour race.
The 20-inch forged aluminium BBS wheels are shod with asymmetric Bridgestone tyres: 265/35ZR20 at the front and 305/20ZR20 at the rear.
AERODYNAMICS
The Lexus LFA boasts class-leading aerodynamics to achieve drivetrain cooling and superb high-speed handling and stability. Extensive wind tunnel testing helped produce a wind-cheating profile with a drag coefficient of 0.31, a remarkable achievement given the degree of downforce the car creates at high speed.
Airflow is precisely controlled over, under and around the car. A carbon fibre rear diffuser and flat underbody generate significant downforce, with an active rear wing, complete with a gurney flap on the leading edge, boosting the level further still.
STEERING
The race-tuned steering gives outstanding response and feedback to create a perfect dynamic link between car and driver. The constant-rate rack and pinion system uses an innovative column-assist Electric Power Steering System that does not sap engine performance.
The large-diameter column shaft is mounted directly on the central chassis structure, giving the steering layout exceptional rigidity. The carbon fibre steering wheel has a flat bottom section and houses the engine starter button and instrument information selector switch. It can be adjusted for reach and rake.
EXTERIOR DESIGN
Dictated by its front-mid engine layout, long wheelbase and short overhangs, sophisticated aerodynamics and low-slung cabin, the Lexus LFA's lines flow from roof to sill in a seamless convex to concave line. As well as its low weight and high strength, carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) also gave the designers more freedom to create shapes, curves and edges that would have been impossible with metal.
The styling remains true, however, to the principles of L-finesse, the design rationale behind all current Lexus models. Form follows function, as witnessed n the numerous air intakes and aerodynamic details, and even in the design of the door mirrors, shaped to channel air over the car's shoulders into the rear intakes.
INTERIOR DESIGN
The low-slung cabin is divided into three zones: the mechanical zone, which includes the skeleton of the car's construction; the human zone, with two seats placed right at the centre of the car; and the driving zone, with high-tech instrumentation that brings driver and machine together.
The cabin is hand-built, with driver-focused ergonomics. The seats, upholstered in fine leather and Alcantara, provide the high level of back and side support needed in a car capable of 200mph-plus performance. The trim echoes the advanced materials used in the Lexus LFA's construction, with exposed areas of both matt and gloss carbon fibre. Trim details are finished in brushed metal and the floor-hinged brake and throttle pedals are made of forged aluminium. As with the exterior finish, owners can choose different interior colours and details to suit personal taste.
INSTRUMENTATION
The compact, hooded instrument panel combines an LCD display panel with a colour Thin Film Transistor (TFT) and a motor-drive movable ring. It features a single circular dial with a central tachometer with an LCD needle. When engine speed exceeds 9,000rpm, the display area turns red to prime the driver for an up-shift. It can also be programmed to turn yellow or green when the revs reach a user-selected range. The dial also houses a digital speedometer and gear indicator, transmission mode, vehicle control data and trip information displays.
An information selector switch on the left side of the steering wheel lets the driver toggle through a series of functions, including customising the data display, adjusting cabin illumination and operating a track-ready stopwatch system.
When the car is started, an instrument display sequence is triggered, creating a sense of occasion, culminating in the four digital dials showing oil and water temperatures, fuel level and oil pressure radiating out from the centre of the rev counter to take up their positions on either side of the central dial.
SAFETY
Passive and active safety provisions are in line with the Lexus LFA's exceptional performance. The central carbon fibre reinforced plastic central structure is extremely strong and provides excellent impact protection. Crash boxes are fitted front and rear that are designed to deform in a controlled fashion in the event of an impact. That at the front is made of CFRP; that at the rear from extruded aluminium. Side impact protection includes strong and rigid carbon fibre side members and door structures comprising an aluminium inner panel and a Glass fibre reinforced Sheet Moulding Compound (G-SMC) outer skin.
The Lexus LFA is equipped with Lexus's Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management (VDIM) system, which co-ordinates the smooth operation of the ABS, vehicle stability and traction control systems as the vehicle approaches its performance limits, based on critical data on brake operation, yaw and roll rates, individual wheel speed and longitudinal, lateral and vertical acceleration
Passive safety features include two-stage adaptive front airbags and seatbelt airbags for driver and passenger and a driver's knee airbag.
MANUFACTURING AND SALES
The Lexus LFA programme was launched in 2000 as a straightforward R&D project, but gained impetus with the appointment of Haruhiko Tanahashi to lead a dedicated team of engineers, committed to a bespoke Lexus development programme. The first Lexus LFA prototype was completed in 2003 and a design study made its public debut at the 2005 Detroit motor show. In 2008 and 2009 the Lexus LFA was entered in the Nurburgring 24-hour race, the intention being to push the car hard under testing conditions prior to its official launch as a production-ready model at the 2009 Tokyo motor show.
The Lexus LFA will be hand-assembled at the Motomachi plant in Toyota City. Only 500 examples will be built, at a maximum rate of 20 per month to ensure the finest build quality and attention to detail. Each V10 engine will be assembled by a single engineer, and will bear his signature as testament to each Lexus LFA's bespoke status.
The UK launch price for the Lexus LFA is €368,000 (approximately £336,000). Owners can choose from an extensive range of options to personalise their car, including 30 different paint finishes. Certain items of standard equipment can also be removed, such as the audio system, to reduce the car's weight.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
* ENGINE
o Engine Type: 1LR-GSE
o Cylinders/arrangement: V10
o Valve mechanism: 40-valve DOHC
o Displacement: 4,805 cc
o Bore x Stroke: 88.0 x 79.0 mm
o Compression ratio: 12.0:1
o Fuel Injection Type: EFI
o Octane Rating : 95 or higher
o Max. Power: 552 bhp @ 8,700 rpm
o Max Torque: 480 Nm @ 6,800 rpm
o Max. engine speed: 9,000 rpm
o Exhaust emissions certification: Euro 5
* PERFORMANCE
o 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h): 3.7 s
o Max. speed: 202 mph (325 km/h)
* DIMENSIONS
o Overall length: 4,505 mm
o Overall width: 1,895 mm
o Overall height: 1,220 mm
o Wheelbase: 2,605 mm
o Track
+ front: 1,580 mm
+ rear: 1,570 mm
o Overhang
+ front: 940 mm
+ rear: 960 mm
o Coefficient of Drag: 0.31 Cd
o Fuel tank capacity: 73 l (16.1 gallons)
* WEIGHTS (kg)
o Kerb weight: 1,480 - 1,580 kg
o Gross vehicle weight: 1,700/1,750 kg
* TRANSMISSION
o Gearbox type: 6-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox
o Front counter gear ratio: 1.259
o Gear ratios
+ 1st: 3.231
+ 2nd: 2.188
+ 3rd: 1.609
+ 4th: 1.233
+ 5th: 0.970
+ 6th: 0.795
o Final drive ratio: 3.417
o Maximum permissible speed
+ 1st: 52 mph
+ 2nd: 76 mph
+ 3rd: 104 mph
+ 4th: 136 mph
+ 5th: 172 mph
+ 6th: -
* BRAKES
o Front: Cross-drilled ventilated discs, 399 x 34 mm
o Rear: Cross-drilled ventilated discs, 360 x 28 mm
* SUSPENSION
* Front: Double wishbone with anti-roll bar
* Rear: Multilink with anti-roll bar
* STEERING
* Steering gear type: Rack and pinion
* Power steering type: Electric
* Ratio: 14.3
* Turns lock to lock: 2.35
* ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
* Battery capacity: 12V-48AH
* Alternator output: 2,640 W
* Starter output: 1.7 kW
* TYRES AND WHEELS
* Wheels
* Front: 20x9.5J BBS alloy
* Rear: 20x11.5J BBS alloy
* Tyres
* Front: 265/35R20 95Y
* Rear: 305/30R20 99Y
The new, upgraded Lexus RX model range made its world debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The new RX exterior features a new, more elegant and aggressive frontal design. An enhanced interior offers an expanded choice of colour schemes, new trim finishes, a new steering wheel, a revised instrument binnacle and a second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI).
The versatility of the European flagship RX 450h's Lexus Hybrid Drive system has been enhanced by the addition of a Sport mode, supplementing the full hybrid powertrain's Normal, Eco and EV (electric only) drive modes. The EV mode can now be activated with a separate switch.
Further enhancing the dynamic and sporting character of the new RX and designed to attract new customers to the model range, a new F SPORT version will be available. Expected to account for some 30% of future model range sales, the new F SPORT grade features bespoke exterior and interior design and driving dynamics technology.
With the launch of the first RX in 1998, Lexus created the Luxury SUV segment, combining, for the first time, all the flexibility, practicality and durability of a Sports Utility Vehicle with the handling, performance, refinement and ride of a luxury sedan.
The RX was the first ever SUV to be equipped with a full hybrid powertrain in 2005. Today, after three generations, two of which have been equipped with Lexus Hybrid Drive technology, the RX remains a key model for Lexus.
In Europe, the premium SUV is responsible for 32% of all Lexus sales, and is the second best selling Lexus after the CT 200h.
Exterior Design
The new Lexus RX range is hallmarked by a bold, elegant and highly individual frontal treatment which will be adopted throughout the brand to strengthen the Lexus family identity between model ranges.
Giving the new RX a powerful, commanding road presence, this new, more aggressive design is a further evolution of a styling cue first developed on the CT 200h and GS model ranges.
The inverted trapezoid upper grille and slanted lower grille have been combined and integrated into a single element, bridging the bumper mid-section to create a prominent 'spindle' shape. Reinforcing this more modern and bolder identity, the lower grille now features horizontal bars and is finished in black.
Positioned on a higher plane than the grille itself -a unique Lexus characteristic- a new, clear lens headlamp cluster design incorporates a choice of halogen, High Intensity Discharge (HID) or Light Emitting Diode (LED) headlamps. The headlamps are underscored by integral LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) which form the L-finesse arrowhead motif, reinforcing the unique visual signature of the new RX model range.
Now also fitted with clear lenses, the rear lamp clusters have been redesigned with a stronger, more sweeping horizontal emphasis, adding elegance to the rear of the vehicle.
The current choice of 18" or 19" aluminium wheels is expanded by the addition of a new 19" alloy wheel design, and four new exterior colours are available -Satin Silver, Burgundy Red, Sienna Brown and Midnight Blue, bringing the choice of colours available to 10 in total.
Interior Design
Further broadening the appeal of its spacious, luxurious and technically advanced dual-zone 'crossover' cockpit, the new RX interior features an expanded choice of colour schemes, new trim finishes, a new steering wheel, a revised instrument binnacle and a second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI).
Adding to the choice of interior colour schemes available, Saddle Tan, and F SPORT-exclusive Black and White Grey designs join the existing Ivory, Black and Light Grey line-up.
The choice of trim inserts has also increased; luxurious Walnut and classic Dark Grey complimented by the addition of modern, Dark Grey bird's eye maple and F SPORT-exclusive Silver finishes.
Clearly differentiating it from the smooth leather finish, the semi-aniline leather upholstery now incorporates diamond shaped perforations. Seat stitching has been enhanced by the use of thicker thread and more prominent colours, and the dashboard design enlivened through the addition of a matt silver insert above the glovebox.
A new, more comfortable steering wheel features a cross-section which is no longer uniform throughout its circumference. Its varying profile allows for a relaxing grip and smooth steering inputs. Wood finish steering wheels are now available with heated rims.
The driver's instrument binnacle of RX 450h versions is equipped with a new Hybrid System Indicator design featuring clearly delineated, Charge, Eco and Power zones. New ambient illumination changes according to both driving conditions and the selected drive mode.
In EV (electric only), Eco or Normal drive modes, when the Hybrid System Indicator needle is in the Charge or Eco zones, the ambient illumination is blue. It will extinguish if the needle enters the Power zone. In Sport mode, the ambient illumination remains red at all times.
The centre console box has been extensively revised to enhance its practicality. The console lid opening angle has been increased to 95 degrees to improve access. Both the USB port and accessory socket have been moved closer to the top of the box interior, which now features a closable door and a removable divider plate.
The new RX model range is equipped with a second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI). This Lexus-unique, multi-function control device has been enhanced for increased user-friendliness and ease of operation. It now features the world's first slide-type joystick control mechanism which functions much like a computer mouse, and the ENTER command is now accomplished simply by pushing the controller.
In conjunction with enhanced RTI control, the multimedia system's full colour LED display now has multi-screen capability. This allows for the permanent display -and independent control- of three types of information simultaneously, such as map, vehicle information, audio, navigation input, air conditioner functions and incoming call.
Drive Mode Select (Normal, Sport, ECO and EV)
Supplementing the Normal and Eco drive modes of the full hybrid powertrain's E-CVT intelligent electronic transmission, a new Sport mode further improves the performance and dynamic ability of the RX 450h. These three drive modes can be selected through the steering wheel, whilst the EV mode (electric only) can be now activated through a separate EV switch.
From start-up and at speeds of less than 50km/h the RX 450h automatically operates in EV mode, driving under electric motor power alone. The driver may also select EV mode manually. This unique driving mode is only available through the full hybrid technology of Lexus Hybrid Drive.
The EV drive mode allows for relaxing urban driving with minimal noise, and zero CO2, NOx and particulate emissions, for up to two kilometres. Because the petrol engine is switched off throughout its operation, the EV drive mode contributes to a significant reduction in the new Lexus' overall fuel consumption.
In Eco mode, throttle response to aggressive accelerator pedal inputs is reduced and air-conditioning control optimized for improved fuel economy. Depending on driving conditions, the Eco mode can help customers adopt a relaxed driving style, and can achieve a perceptible reduction in fuel consumption.
Specifically tuned to deliver greater electric motor power, Sport mode maximises the new RX 450h's performance and agility. It not only modifies the throttle and Electric Power Steering (EPS) settings to give a faster response to driver inputs, but also provides less intrusive operation of the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC) systems, allowing drivers to fully exploit the Lexus full hybrid's extended dynamic abilities.
The distinct character of each drive mode is further reinforced through changes to the driver's instruments. Lit in hybrid blue for the EV, Eco and Normal drive modes, the instrument panel ambient illumination automatically alters to red when the Sport mode is selected.
ALL-NEW F SPORT GRADE
Further enhancing the dynamic and sporting character of the new RX and attracting new customers to the model range, a new F SPORT version is now available.
Expected to account for up to 30% of all future RX sales in a new, 4 grade model range structure, the F SPORT grade features bespoke exterior and interior design and driving dynamics technology.
Exterior Design
F SPORT versions of the new RX are instantly identifiable by significantly more aggressive, model-unique frontal styling. A deeper, more vertical front bumper incorporates a bigger lower section of the Lexus family 'spindle' grille design.
Incorporating a full-width, aerodynamic spoiler for improved high speed stability, the lower bumper's flared extremities house deeply rebated fog lamps. Both upper and lower grilles feature a sporting, F SPORT-specific mesh design.
In profile, F SPORT models may be identified by exclusive, 19" shaded alloy wheels and front wing F SPORT badging.
Interior Design
The F SPORT-exclusive interior is hallmarked by an exclusive, Black and White Grey colour scheme. It features black, smooth leather upholstery with white grey perforations and contrast stitching, steel silver painted trim inserts and a black ceiling to give the interior a more cockpit-like feel and aid driver concentration.
Performance Dampers
F SPORT models further benefit from the lateral performance damper system, which is designed to absorb and minimise undesirable body vibrations, offer a more linear steering feel and contribute to improved ride comfort.
In lieu of conventional fixed bracing, the system features a front performance damper connecting the left and right front suspension towers, and a rear damper connecting the left and right sides of the rear lower back panel.
With a construction similar to that of a typical monotube suspension damper, the front and rear performance damper assemblies differ according to the variations in body rigidity, noise and vibration of their surroundings, optimising their ability to absorb body torsion, flexure and fine vibrations.
Their installation has reduced vehicle floor vibrations across a wide frequency range, reduced body deformation through a drop in left and right front suspension tower displacement, and even lowered audio system white noise levels.
Though difficult to analyse even using Computer Aided Design, micron-sized, minuscule vibrations manifest themselves as a slight discomfort when turning the wheel and minute deviations in vehicle behaviour during straight line acceleration. Their elimination brings a new dimension of steering response, agility and ride comfort to the premium SUV segment.
6-Speed Multi-mode Automatic Transmission with Paddle Shift Control
The 6-speed automatic transmission of the RX 350 F SPORT versions is now equipped with a steering wheel-mounted paddle shift control. The paddle switches can be used even with the gear selector in D range, allowing the driver to quickly change to fixed range mode without the need to engage S range via the gear lever.