When Lexus->ke47 unveiled the LF-A Roadster concept at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, everyone was hoping that the drop top version of the LF-A wouldn't end there. Now, three years after the highlighted debut, the roadster model has finally been confirmed for production. Expect the Lexus LF-A Roadster to make its appearance in late 2014, only after all of the 500 coupes have been produced.
The design of the future drop top should remain parallel to that of the coupe with possible tweaking in the headlamps and a few other minor tricks. The biggest change will be the fabric soft top, waiting and willing to deliver a wind-in-your-hair experience. Under the hood, expect the same 4.8 liter V10 engine as found in the coupe version. This engine delivers a maximum output of 560 HP at 9,000 RPM and a peak torque of 354 lb-ft at 6,800 RPM. The sprint from 0 to 60 mph will still be made in under 4 seconds, while top speed will be kept in the 200 mph area. The only question remaining is if Lexus will also offer a Nurburgring package for the Roadster model.
UPDATE 09/21/2011: Despite the fact that everyone was waiting to see a roadster version of the LF-A supercar fairly soon, in a recent interview with British magazine, CAR, Lexus sources have confirmed that plans for a roadster model have been axed due to the economic uncertainty in markets around the world. Ouch!(CAR)
UPDATE 01/16/2012: We all know that Lexus axed the LF-A Roadster due to economic uncertainty in some markets, but then a Lexus LF-A Roadster made a surprise appearance at the D1GP Kick Off Drift event that took place just outside the 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon.
This LF-A Roadster could just be a one-off custom job from one of its owners. But seeing what a drop-top version of the Lexus->ke47 supercar could look like has us pining to see the roadster program get kick-started again.
Check out the video after the jump to see the LF-A Roadster burn some rubber on a drift track at the 2012 TAS.You can get to the tire thrashing at the 48-second mark.
2014 Lexus LF-A Roadster
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- Model: 2014 Lexus LF-A Roadster
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