What Is Lexus Testing These LFA Widebody Mules For?

Lexus ceased production of the LFA supercar in December 2012, making these recent spy shots all the more confusing for enthusiasts.

Why is Lexus testing a pair of widebody LFA mules at the Nürburgring? Could it be that the LFA’s successor hides underneath the familiar bodywork? The answer is not easy to find, given the conflicting reports about the possibility of a second-generation LFA.

Our spy photographers snapped the LFA test mules lapping very quickly around the Nürburgring Nordschleife today. While the cars feature the V10 supercar’s bodywork, a closer look at the photos reveals some interesting elements.

For starters, both mules feature fender extensions, with the rear fenders also featuring an additional air intake. Given the big rear wing and winglets on the front bumper, the vehicles seem to use the bodywork of the LFA Nürburgring Edition. The only difference between the two cars is the choice of wheels.

Both mules are fitted with measuring equipment, visible on the roof and fenders as well as through the windows. Lexus must be using sensors to assess the effect the widebody package and the unknown mechanical changes have on the lap times.

One thing is certain, though. If these test vehicles aren’t for a next-generation LFA, the only project that would fit the bill is Toyota’s upcoming hybrid hypercar. Previewed by the GR Super Sport Concept, the extreme machine will boast 1,000PS (986hp) from a 2.4-liter twin-turbo V6 gasoline engine and a hybrid system.

Since said hypercar and the LFA have very different designs and layouts, maybe Toyota is using the mules for other purposes. For example, to test suspension and braking components, as well as different wheel and tire combinations.