Lexus LF-A details release

The Lexus LF-A, rumored debuted at October's Tokyo Motor Show, has been spotted testing on a number of occasions. Recently, new details have emerged about the production version of the Lexus LF-A, confirming much of what was already suspected.

The LF-A's powertrain has previously been speculated as a 5.0L V10 engine rated at over 500hp (373kW), and the latest report says it will be over 550hp (410kW) and capable of a top speed of 218mph. This means the upcoming supercar will offer similar performance figures to much more prestigious exotics such as the Ferrari 599 GTB and Lamborghini's Murcielago LP640.

Other details include six-piston brake calipers with carbon-ceramic discs, titanium mufflers, a six-speed sequential automatic gearbox, and run flat Bridgestone tires – all fitted as standard.

A hybrid variant should also be available, but it’s unknown how much power this version will have or what affect the heavy batteries and extra motor will have on handling and weight - or if the hybrid system will be anything more than badging and lip-service to the concept. The car's front mid-engine placement, along with a rear-mounted transaxle and rear-mounted radiators, should allow for excellent weight distribution, however.
The production is limited to only about 500 units, unless demand proves high enough to support more, though it will cost more than $200,000. Worse still, only 350 of them will be made in left-hand-drive for worldwide consumption.