2012 Lexus LFA - Review

Outrageously expensive, incredibly high-performance, and extremely limited in volume, the Lexus LFA is the very definition of a "halo car," built to highlight Lexus' engineering prowess and technical expertise as much as to entice supercar buyers. Its masterful V-10 engine, high-tech carbon fiber body, and $375,000-plus price tag make it a car to be desired.

Performance is, as you might expect, impressive, though perhaps not quite so impressive as to justify the massive price: 0-60 mph takes 3.7 seconds, top speed is 202 mph, and  output from the 4.8-liter V-10 engine is a stout 552 horsepower. Sure, the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 tops all of those numbers at less than one-third the price, but it doesn't hold the same cachet--or have a 9,000-rpm redline.

The LFA's transmission is also somewhat unique among the modern crop of supercars, eschewing both the standard manual transmission and the dual-clutch gearbox for a single-clutch six-speed sequential gearbox. Nevertheless, its quick-revving V-10 engine seems unrestrained by the somewhat odd choice of gearbox.

Inside the exclusive Lexus supercar, you'll find a mix of extreme high-tech with spartan sportscar aesthetics. Comfort is good if you come into the bargain expecting a car tuned for the edge of performance, and the accompanying tight spaces and firm ride. The visual highlight of the cockpit is the digital tachometer, chosen because no analog gauge could accurately match the speed with which the V-10 engine gains revs.

A number of packages, including a special Nurburgring Edition, offer unique exterior and interior appearance modifications as well as slight tweaks to the performance packages--but as with any extremely high-end supercar, the buyer can order a car built to their specification, provided their wallet is thick enough.

Due to its limited production and high price, the LFA is a very uncommon sight even among supercar circles. If you can get past the less-than-awe-inspiring performance and Lexus badging in the two-Ferraris cost category, you can make a strong argument for joining one of the most exclusive clubs on the planet.