2012 Lexus LFA: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Lexus LFA was an all-new model and the first production LFA sold in the United States. Its headline feature was a high-revving 4.8-liter V10 in a lightweight carbon-fiber structure.
About the 2012 Lexus LFA
1st generation, first and final U.S. model year
Lexus positioned the LFA as its highest-performance road car: a hand-built, rear-wheel-drive supercar designed around direct driver involvement rather than everyday luxury-car priorities. Its defining combination was a fast-revving naturally aspirated V10, lightweight carbon-fiber construction, track-developed handling, and carefully engineered engine sound. Limited production and labor-intensive assembly set it apart from higher-volume competitors, while familiar Lexus build quality and straightforward controls made the cabin less intimidating than many exotic cars.
Lexus positioned the LFA as its most driver-focused production car, with two seats, rear-wheel drive and hand-built construction. Its signature hardware included a V10 with a 9,000-rpm redline, a six-speed automated gearbox with paddle shifters, carbon-ceramic brakes and a fast-reacting digital gauge cluster.
What changed, by category
2012 Lexus LFA specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | V10, 4.8 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Sequential Mode |
| Drivetrain | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 11 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 16 mpg |
| Horsepower | 552 hp |
| Torque | 354 lb-ft |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Rear View Camera | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Fog Lights | |
| Rear Spoiler | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Leather Seats | |
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2012 Lexus LFA an all-new model?
Yes. The 2012 LFA was an all-new, hand-built two-seat supercar and the first production LFA sold in the United States.
What engine and transmission does the 2012 Lexus LFA have?
The 2012 LFA has a naturally aspirated 4.8-liter V10 with a 9,000-rpm redline. It sends power to the rear wheels through a rear-mounted six-speed automated gearbox with paddle shifters.
What was unusual about the 2012 Lexus LFA’s construction?
The 2012 LFA used carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic for its chassis and bodywork. It also had lightweight aluminum suspension parts and carbon-ceramic brakes.
Was 2012 the only U.S. model year for the Lexus LFA?
Yes. The LFA’s first U.S. model year was also its last, and the final car in the 500-vehicle worldwide production run was built on December 14, 2012.