LEXUS LFA | The highly anticipated LFA Special Edition makes its debut
LEXUS LFA | LEXUS LFA
LFA Special Edition: A Highly Anticipated Debut
Lexushas announced the "Special Edition" of its high-performance sports car "LFA," which debuted at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show last year.
Text by Giraffe
0-100 km/h in 3.7 Seconds, Top Speed of 325 km/h Even in the Base Model
The LFA is Lexus's flagship model, officially unveiled at last year's Tokyo Motor Show. Since the press release at the time of its announcement explicitly mentioned the addition of a specification with a circuit-oriented setup, the arrival of its special edition had been eagerly awaited, and it has now been officially announced.
The base LFA is equipped with a dedicated 4.8-liter V10 engine that produces a maximum output of 560 ps and a peak torque of 48.9 kgm. It uses a 6-speed, 2-pedal "ASG" (Automated Sequential Gearbox) with paddle shifters. The body utilizes CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic) and aluminum to achieve weight reduction. As a result, it boasts overwhelming performance, with 0-100 km/h acceleration in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 325 km/h.
Maximum Output Increased by 10 ps
In this Special Edition, the engine's maximum output has been increased by 10 ps through ECU setting changes. The ASG's shift program has also been specially tuned, reducing shift times from 0.2 seconds to 0.15 seconds.
The suspension has also been upgraded with dedicated suspension and high-grip tires.
Aerodynamics have also been improved with the adoption of a large rear wing and a front bumper equipped with a large spoiler and canards. Dedicated aluminum wheels are also fitted, giving the exterior an even more Spartan impression. Four exclusive body colors are available: orange, matte black, whitest white, and black.
Production of the Special Edition is scheduled to begin in 2012. While the price has not been announced, it is certain to exceed the base model LFA's ¥37.5 million.
BRAND HISTORY
Toyota launched its luxury car brand LEXUS in the American market in 1989. The aim was to offer a new value that set it apart from luxury cars from America and Germany, leveraging Toyota's advanced technological capabilities, superior quality, and exceptional customer service.
When the "LS400" (Celsior in Japan) and "ES250" (Camry in Japan) were introduced to the American market in September of the same year, the LS400 quickly won "Best Import Car" by February 1990. Since then, Lexus's reputation has only grown, and with the expansion of its lineup, it has solidified its position as a luxury car brand.
Following its success in America, Lexus expanded into Europe in 2004 and announced its business development in Japan in May of the same year. In August 2005, it launched its luxury car business in its home country. Initially, the lineup lacked the flagship "LS," featuring the "GS" (successor to the Toyota Aristo), "SC" (Toyota Soarer), and "IS" (successor to the Toyota Altezza). However, with the introduction of the long-awaited new LS in September 2006 and its hybrid version, the "LS600h/LS600hL," in May 2007, Lexus met the expectations of luxury sedan buyers.
Meanwhile, Lexus has focused on building a sporty image, announcing the sports model "IS F" in October 2007 and entering the developing sports coupe "LF-A" in the Nürburgring 24 Hours race in May 2008, further enhancing its appeal.

