More than three years after Toyota unveiled the GR GT3 concept, the long-anticipated street-legal version expected to carry a Lexus badge has finally been spotted testing again, this time on California roads. Captured on video by veteran automotive journalist Jonny Lieberman, the prototype gives fresh hope that the sleek, front-engined sports coupe could soon break cover.
Caught in Action: Benchmarking with AMG GT
The camouflaged Lexus prototype, believed to be called the Lexus LFR, was seen driving along the scenic yet demanding Angeles Crest Highway. In an intriguing development, Lexus was benchmarking the LFR against a previous-generation Mercedes-AMG GT, suggesting the Japanese marque has serious performance targets in mind.
The test convoy also included a pair of current-gen Toyota Sequoias equipped with extended tow mirrors likely serving as camera or support vehicles. The prototype’s low-slung, wide-body silhouette hinted at exotic proportions. Even under heavy camouflage, the coupe’s muscular stance turned heads.
Missing Rear Wing Signals Multiple Variants
One noticeable detail was the absence of the large rear wing previously spotted on earlier LFR test cars. This could indicate that Lexus is developing different variants—possibly a more hardcore, track-focused version with full aero, and a cleaner street model without the aggressive appendages.
Despite the prototype’s sleek lines, the video also revealed a stiff suspension setup. The car visibly bounced over road imperfections, a trait typical of focused performance machines.
Hybrid V8 Power Likely
Under the hood, the LFR is expected to feature a front-mounted twin-turbo V8, likely paired with a hybrid system. This would align with industry trends, as rivals such as the latest AMG GT models also move toward electrified powertrains.
Interestingly, Lexus appears to have benchmarked the new LFR against the original, non-hybrid AMG GT, suggesting the Japanese automaker is striving to achieve pure mechanical feel while blending in modern hybrid performance.
Where Will the LFR Fit in the Lexus Lineup?
While some enthusiasts hope for a spiritual successor to the iconic Lexus LFA, the LFR is expected to slot lower in the range, focusing on broader market appeal and more attainable pricing.
Sources suggest a price bracket between $150,000 and $180,000, undercutting the LFA’s stratospheric $375,000 sticker while competing directly with AMG GT variants such as the GT 63 ($179,050) and GT 63 S E Performance ($195,900).
For comparison, the current Lexus RC F hovers just under six figures. The LFR would therefore represent Lexus’s new flagship performance coupe and a halo product for its hybrid V8 ambitions.
Launch Timeline: Sooner Than You Think?
Given the extended test program, spotted in Europe and now in the U.S. the LFR’s official reveal seems imminent. Moreover, with Toyota and Lexus preparing the GR GT3 race car for World Endurance Championship (WEC) competition in 2026, the road-going LFR will likely debut well ahead of that timeline.
For now, we’ll keep an eye on California’s mountain passes and our fingers crossed for a late 2025 or early 2026 unveiling.
