By LAWRENCE TAN

Lexus seems to be fully devoted to the hybrid cause, showcasing model after model of hybrid concepts, but the luxury marque of Toyota has finally chosen home base (i.e. the Tokyo Motor Show) to unleash its first supercar – the LFA.

If you’ve been following the developments, the LFA is not a closely guarded secret as first versions have appeared in concept form and various revised editions since 2005.

But this is the first production version ever unveiled by Lexus, and it’s boasting some serious credentials to challenge the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini.

Underneath the hood is a 4.8-liter V10 capable of 552 bhp and 354 lb-ft of torque, and when taking the lightweight carbon fiber reinforced plastic chassis into consideration, it makes for an exceptional power-to-weight ratio – that will put the current Japanese supercar contender, the Nissan GTR to shame.

The LFA catapults to 62mph from rest in under 3.7 seconds, and redlines at 9,000 rpm, with a top speed of 202 mph. Only 500 units of the LFA will be built, and each carries a hefty price tag of USD375,000. Seems like Lexus is determined to inch its way into the German and Italian-dominated supercar fraternity.

Lexus