Lexus LFA trademark hints at second-generation supercar

The Lexus LFA badge could be revived for a second generation, if a new trademark filing is any indication.

Drive has unearthed a recent trademark lodgement from Lexus for the 'LFA' badge, suggesting the Japanese luxury brand may not be done with the iconic name just yet.

The application was filed in the US, Philippines, Indonesia, and Israel in late August 2023.

While the latest trademark for the LFA badge could be Lexus leaning on the public's love of its first-generation, V10-powered supercar, it could also simply be the company protecting an important badge from its past – and blocking competitors from its future use.

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A trademark filing dating back to October 2022 for 'LFR' suggested Lexus could adopt a new – albeit derivative – name for the new-generation supercar.

Less than a week ago, footage emerged of a prototype vehicle being driven at the Twin Ring Motegi circuit in Japan, with what sounds like a V8 engine.

Previous reports out of Japan suggested the car-maker was developing a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 for the range-topping sportscar, possibly with hybrid assistance – though nothing has been confirmed at this early stage.

In June 2023, a company executive said a road-going version of the Toyota GR GT3 sportscar will go into production by 2026 – while also confirming it will be sold under the premium Lexus brand.

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Previous unconfirmed reports from Japanese publications have suggested the future supercar could be the first Lexus to also wear 'GR' badges – denoting Toyota's high-performance arm, Gazoo Racing.

GR badges have only ever been reserved for performance models from Toyota and Daihatsu.

While the road-going version is expected to be available through Lexus dealerships in less than three years, previous reports out of Japan suggest the vehicle will race wearing Toyota badges.