Why did Lexus stop making the LFA?
The Lexus LFA, a masterpiece of engineering and design, remains one of the most iconic supercars ever produced. Despite its legendary status, Lexus ceased production of the LFA in 2012, leaving car enthusiasts wondering why such a remarkable vehicle was discontinued. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind Lexus’s decision to stop making the LFA and what it means for the brand's legacy.
The Limited Production Philosophy
One of the primary reasons Lexus stopped making the LFA was its intentional decision to keep the car exclusive. Lexus produced only 500 units of the LFA, with each car meticulously hand-assembled. This limited production run was part of the brand’s strategy to create a halo car that would elevate Lexus’s reputation in the luxury and performance automotive market.
By limiting production, Lexus ensured that the LFA would remain a rare and highly sought-after collector’s item, cementing its status as a timeless classic.
High Production Costs
The LFA was a technological marvel, featuring a naturally aspirated 4.8-liter V10 engine and a carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) body. However, these cutting-edge materials and technologies came at a significant cost. The development and production of the LFA were incredibly expensive, and Lexus reportedly sold the car at a loss despite its high price tag of around $375,000.
Continuing production would have been financially unsustainable for Lexus, especially given the niche market for ultra-high-performance supercars.
Focus on Future Innovations
Lexus’s decision to discontinue the LFA also reflected its desire to shift focus toward future innovations. The LFA served as a testbed for advanced technologies, such as lightweight materials and high-performance engineering, which have since influenced other Lexus models. By ending the LFA’s production, Lexus could allocate resources to developing new vehicles and technologies that align with evolving market demands, including hybrid and electric powertrains.
The Legacy of the Lexus LFA
Although the LFA is no longer in production, its legacy lives on. The car demonstrated Lexus’s ability to compete with the world’s top supercar manufacturers and showcased the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering. The lessons learned from the LFA continue to shape Lexus’s approach to performance and innovation.
- The LFA elevated Lexus’s reputation in the luxury and performance market.
- It introduced groundbreaking technologies, such as CFRP construction.
- Its exclusivity and rarity have made it a highly coveted collector’s item.
In conclusion, the Lexus LFA was discontinued not because of a lack of success but because it fulfilled its purpose as a halo car. By keeping production limited, Lexus ensured the LFA’s exclusivity and used it as a platform to pioneer new technologies. While the LFA’s production may have ended, its influence on the automotive world will be felt for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an LFA cost?
There are 1 used Lexus LFA vehicles for sale near you, with an average cost of $849,950. Prices for a used Lexus LFA range from a high of $849,950 to a low of $849,950. Remember that mileage and condition can affect price.
How many Lexus LFAs exist?
Lexus built the LFA from 2010 though 2012 and produced a total of 500 examples. 450 of them were the standard car while 50 of them came with the Nurburgring package that added an extra 10 ponies, a bit of carbon fiber, and some gearbox tweaks.
What is the fastest Lexus besides LFA?
Fastest 2024 Lexus Models
| 0-60 mph time | Top Speed | |
|---|---|---|
| RC F Track Edition | 3.96 seconds | 168 MPH |
| RC F | 4.2 seconds | 168 MPH |
| IS500 | 4.4 seconds | 149 MPH |
| LC500 | 4.4 seconds | 168 MPH |
Will the LFA come back?
Lexus LFA will return in 2025!
Why did Lexus LFA fail?
With its price set over $375,000 initially, and its current average price of $807,512, the LFA ended up preventing most of its audience from even considering purchase. Coupled with the poor timing of its release, competitors like the Nissan GT-R R35 had already claimed its place as a top Japanese supercar.
How much is LFA worth?
How much is a 2012 Lexus LFA worth? The value of a used 2012 Lexus LFA ranges from $38,923 to $59,930, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
Did Lexus lose money on the LFA?
Lexus produced 550 LFAs in total for the world, but on every LFA sale Lexus didn't even earn a single penny, but that didn't mean that the LFA was no good instead, it was perfect, an engineering masterpiece with the world's fastest revving production engine developed with Yamaha partnership and has an exhaust note that ...
Why did they discontinue Lexus LFA?
The LFA was shown as the final vehicle of the press conference, following the LF-Ch hybrid concept. The production announcement for the LFA marked the 20th anniversary of the launch of Lexus. Given the high cost of construction and development, analysts did not expect LFA sales to be profitable.
Why is the Lexus LFA so rare?
Why It Was Only in Production for Two Years. Lexus built just 500 examples of the LFA—436 “regular” models and 64 Nurburgring Package variants—between 2010 and 2012, 190 of which were for the US market. The decision to keep the production run so low appears to have been intentional.
What is the fastest Lexus car?
Engineers at Lexus have mastered luxury automobiles to bring you the Lexus F Sport range by putting emphasis on intensity, speed, elegance, power, and style. The Lexus LC 500, Lexus RC F and the all-new 2023 Lexus IS 500 F are the three fastest cars Lexus provides.
