Redesigned Lexus Model Revealed, Potentially Mirroring Suggested Lexus LFR Speedster Design
The automotive world was abuzz with excitement last week as Lexus unveiled their latest concept car, the Sport Concept, at The Quail, A Motorsport Gathering in Carmel, California. This progressively styled, future-focused sports car is a promising development for those who have been waiting for a replacement for the legendary LFA.
The Sport Concept boasts a wide, low-profile two-door form that blends dynamic and emotional elements into a vision for a next-generation sports car. Its design resembles the LFA, with distinct silhouettes under the rear glass that look like an engine cover and rear exhaust outlets tucked up under the spoiler. The complex body work on the sides and rear suggests a performance-bred aerodynamic package.
While the Sport Concept is not confirmed to be part of the LFR project, it shares similar design elements with the LFA, fueling speculations about its potential role. The LFR, a rumored Lexus sports car, is expected to serve as Lexus's new halo sports car, replacing the LFA and highlighting performance amidst lineup reductions in sporty models like the RC F and LC500 variants.
Rumors suggest the LFR project will be powered by a twin-turbo V8 hybrid powertrain rather than a front-mounted naturally aspirated engine, as originally speculated. This powertrain blend of a twin-turbo V8 with hybrid technology is a departure from the purely electric or conventional front-mounted V8 initially anticipated.
The LFR project remains somewhat confidential, with Lexus and Toyota keeping details limited. However, the public concept and racing prototypes already hint strongly at the LFR’s form and performance direction. Lexus has trademarked "LFR" in 2022, adding fuel to the speculations.
Initial rumors suggested a 2026 debut for the LFR, but recent reports indicate potential delays for the road car. Despite these delays, the GT3 race car version of the LFR is planned to compete in endurance events like Le Mans and Daytona.
In summary, the Lexus LFR is confirmed to be coming as a hybrid twin-turbo V8 sports car with racing intentions, targeting around 2027 production but facing some delays. No purely electric or non-hybrid front V8 version has been announced. The Lexus Sport Concept, with its similar design elements, serves as a tantalizing preview of what's to come from the LFR project.
The Sport Concept, with its sleek design resembling the LFA and hints of futuristic technology, may offer a glimpse into the lifestyle that the anticipated LFR might bring. As the public eagerly awaits the hybrid twin-turbo V8 LFR, the automotive world also anticipates the integration of gadgets and advanced technology into its performance-driven features, such as the cars' interiors and driving experiences.
