Lexus LF-A (2011-) Review

Overview

• Next: Reliability and Quality

Although we first saw the LF-A in concept format as far back as the 2005 Detroit Motor Show, work actually began on the car at the turn of the millennium. Starting as a Toyota research project, it quickly became a Lexus programme to build a true supercar, with dynamics that would appeal to the keenest drivers.

Nine years later, and the project having been delayed by a switch from aluminium construction to carbon fibre, the LF-A's order book opened at the Tokyo Motor Show, with just 500 built-to-order examples available to buy.

Despite initial rumours of a hybrid powertrain, the LF-A is a relatively conventional supercar (if such a thing exists). Its bespoke 4.8-litre V10 is mounted behind the front axle and feeds power to the rear wheels through a six-speed automated manual gearbox, with a transaxle and limited slip differential mounted at the rear helping achieve a 48:52 weight distribution.

The transmission is controlled via slender paddles behind the steering wheel, while the driver may alter the speed and ferocity of the gearchange, along with four discrete driving modes, which also encompass control of the power delivery, brakes and stability systems.

Unsurprisingly, the LF-A is the fastest car Lexus has ever built, with a 202mph top speed and claimed 0-62mph of just 3.7 seconds. While those figures are on a par with many supercars such as the forthcoming Ferrari 458 Italia and McLaren MP4-12C , the Lexus costs a sizable chunk more and, in effect, competes with the likes of the Pagani Zonda and Ferrari 599 GTB - although in that stratosphere we're not so sure buyers look at things that logically.

The Lexus will be rare and is certainly different. But is that enough to justify the purchase to those lucky enough to be in the position to shell out the £310,000 or so it will cost? Read on to find out.