2026 Lexus LFR supercar a step closer
Twin-turbo V8 hybrid set to combine with lightweight monocoque as Lexus LFA successor draws on Toyota GT3 GR racerThe wild V8-powered supercar Lexus is planning to produce as a rival for the latest Aston Martin Vantage and new Mercedes-AMG GT will blend an ultra-low kerb weight with explosive performance.
As carsales has reported, the spiritual successor to the legendary LFA is set to carry the ‘LFR’ nameplate and is being developed in conjunction with parent company Toyota’s GT3 GR racing program.
Prototypes of the extreme Toyota sports car have already been spotted testing at the likes of Belgium’s Spa-Francorchamps and it’s thought the Japanese car-maker has designs on competing in top-flight motorsport, including a crack at the Le Mans 24 Hours in 2026.
Current FIA rulings dictate that every GT3 that races must share a body design with a related road car, so the Japanese car-making giant needs a production version to go racing.
It’s not known if Toyota will roll out a sister car but it’s thought the new Lexus LFR will be developed by Gazoo Racing’s road car division that has already produced the GR 86 coupe, GR Yaris and the most recent GR Corolla.
Full details of the LFR have yet to be revealed but it’s expected to be powered by a development of the twin-turbo V8 the racer runs with the addition of Toyota and Lexus’ famed hybrid electrification.
Tipped to weigh just 1300kg thanks to a full carbon-fibre monocoque structure, the new Lexus supercar could set new standards for performance, especially when rivals like the Mercedes-AMG GT weigh a portly 1970kg.
As well as offering a pure-combustion version, it’s been rumoured Lexus might also produce a hydrogen-combustion variant.
Toyota recently teamed up with engine partner Yamaha to develop a hydrogen-fuelled 5.0-litre V8.
Once the LFR is launched, Lexus will introduce a second car based on the same carbon tub that will come with an advanced all-electric powertrain.
That car will be inspired by the 2021 Lexus Electrified Sport concept and could help debut Toyota’s next-generation solid-state battery technology.
Related: Lexus Electrified Sport supercar to headline Melbourne Cup
Related: New Lexus LFR supercar to launch globally in 2026
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