Could BMW And Lexus Be Teaming Up To Build The Ultimate LFA Replacement?

OK, we know that BMW and Toyota signed and sealed an agreement to jointly develop a platform for a new sports car. In theory, this could eventually become a new Supra. BMW would benefit because it’s looking for an eventual (and more fuel efficient) replacement for the Z4. Basically, BMW will receive Toyota’s expertise in hybrid technology while Toyota will get BMW’s sports car handling knowledge. Really not a bad deal at all.

But a Japanese auto magazine is convinced there’s more to this business partnership than just a new Supra and next-gen Z4. Lexus Enthusiast first caught on to Best Car’s story that Lexus and BMW are planning a proper LFA supercar replacement.

 

MorePower - 5/13/2014 3:36:27 PM

+2 Boost

No!

The problem with the LFA was that it was too expensive and it took to long to get make it to the market and then Toyota tried to pull a Ferrari F50 by locking some down for lease only before purchase.

It makes no sense for BMW because it would hurt their brand image by being associated, directly to consumers, with a "lesser" brand.

If Toyota order spec engines, like McLaren did when building the F1, it could work, but Toyota already makes excellent one-off engines.

Yonder7 - 5/13/2014 7:25:12 PM

+2 Boost

MorePower: It is very SAD to say this cause I love european cars, But BMW does not have anything to compare with LFA... so I thing they could learn a lot with Toyota and apply the knowledge to improve their brand, specially reliability ..something that everyone can learn from Lexus and Toyota.

Dr550 - 5/14/2014 12:36:57 AM

+1 Boost

Toyota/Lexus reliability is based on using and not altering proven parts/components. The Lexus V6 that is so reliable is based on a Toyota from 10 years ago. The starter, alternator, valves, etc. core components of the engine are tried and tested. MB, Audi, and BMW are constantly upgrading engines, suspensions, brakes etc. for better performance. How often to you hear about Lexus engines power upgrades besides the five year displacement increase. Not often. Can you imagine BMW using the same inline 6 3.5L engine from 2003.

MattDarringer - 5/13/2014 8:28:10 PM

0 Boost

The would be no different that Audi selling an uglier version of the Gallardo.

poot66 - 5/15/2014 12:09:40 PM

+1 Boost

I don't understand how that question could be serious..... Is BMW helping Lexus build the Ultimate LFA replacement. Better yet why not show them how to build the ultimate 7 series replacement and just go down the line. Why on earth would BMW ever do that.

MrEE - 5/15/2014 7:00:43 PM

0 Boost

BMW never had anything close to a LFA, so its a way for them to expand into high end and go up against Audi/Lambo. Toyota needs to get carbon fiber down in cost and can leverage BMW's experience. Toyota might use BMW power-train to keep costs down, although it may be hard to beat the Yamaha engineered engine of the previous LFA. Of course Toyota is the expert on hybrid technology that BMW would benefit from.