Every once in a while, Toyota decides to grace us with a supercar to remind us that they are more than just a company that produces family sedans. Toyota, the world’s largest manufacturer of motor vehicles as of 2024, mainly deals in mass-produced consumer vehicles. With products like the Sienna family wagon, it is difficult to picture Toyota in motorsport. But it would surprise you to know that Toyota has a very rich racing history that dates back more than 60 years. Toyota has raced in all manners of motorsports throughout the world and have come out on top in many of these events.
On December 15, 2010 Toyota rolled off the first Toyota LFA which, at the time, was Toyota’s flagship sports car. The LFA was the perfect sports car, at least on paper. It had a 4.8-litre V10 engine that produced 553 horsepower (hp), shooting it up from 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds. Aside from all that power being made, the LFAs V10 engine holds the record for one of the best-sounding cars ever produced—world-renowned automotive journalist, Jeremy Clarkson attested to this. The LFA was a great car but its sales were the exact opposite. As a result, Toyota to killed it off just two years later in 2012 after 500 units were produced. But, that was not the final end for the LFA as Toyota is currently developing its successor.
The Toyota LFR
Nothing has been said yet by Toyota, but rumours point to the LFA successor being called the LFR. Prototypes of the LFR have been spotted in camouflage wrap to hide what appears to be a very sleek sports car. More interesting is that the LFR (name unconfirmed) might be right around the corner. Production is said to commence this summer, with the first deliveries expected as early as October. This means that the official unveiling is probably just a few months away. A lot of teasers are expected from Toyota/Lexus before then. Unlike the LFA which had a naturally aspirated V10 engine, the LFR is rumoured to have a hybrid V-8 powertrain. A combination of a V8 engine with some electric motors means that the LFR should make close to 1000 hp. With horsepower figures close to a thousand, the LFR is definitely going to break records upon release.
In conclusion, the LFA was a force to contend with and Toyota’s tendency to improve on their products, means that the LFR will be an even better sports car. We can only hope that the LFR is not a marketing disaster like the LFA. I can’t wait to see what Toyota has in store for us.
