When Honda cancelled their plans to build a new NSX, there was some worry that Lexus might follow suit with the LF-A.

Turns out there was nothing to it, Lexus has confirmed their intention to build the LF-A. Auto Express reports:

The news was announced as parent firm Toyota also confirmed its commitment to the Formula One World Championship. It’s thought that a small number of LF-A models will be built this year, primarily to take part in various racing championships around the world.

Of course, it sounds like anyone waiting for the LF-A production model shouldn’t be expecting it next year, but the fact Lexus will be using it as an entry into professional races bodes well for its continued development.

[Source: Auto Express]

It’s been discovered that Toyota registered “LFA” at US Patent and Trademark Office on December 1st, 2008. It’s been interpreted by many as a positive sign, but this could be seen in two ways:

1. Lexus is moving forward with the supercar, and taking care of the name trademark is one of the many steps necessary.
2. Lexus doesn’t want anyone else registering “LFA”, regardless of their own plans.

Being an optimist, I believe it’s the former rather than the latter, even though it puts a giant hole in my theory that the LF-A concept was really the new SC. (Also, looks like the name is losing the hyphen.)

[Source: AutoSpies]

Here’s a couple new Lexus LF-A Racing Concept videos for you — first up is some stellar footage of a rocketing LF-A, which perfectly captures the engine belting it out full-force:

The other video of note is from the LF-A’s appearance at last week’s Toyota Motorsports Festival in Japan. As you might remember, the supercar was being driven by none other than Toyota executive vice-president Akio Toyoda:

I still love the look of this car. The rear 3/4 view is pure magic.

At the request of TPP commenter WorldofLuxury, here is the full set of matte black Lexus LF-Xh photos from the Paris promotional kit suitable for use as background images.

Also for your viewing pleasure is this short commercial-like footage of the LF-Xh:

Early this morning, I was sent a dealership document outlining the full details of the North American Canadian 2010 Lexus RX 350, right down to the available packages (still no production model photos though, the pic above is the LF-Xh concept).

I’m going to break up the information over a series of posts today, starting with the specs:

• The 3.5L V6 engine remains the same, though it’s now pumping out an extra 5hp (to 275hp) and 6lb-ft of torque (to 257lb-ft).
• The suspension is also carried over, however a new sport-tuned suspension will be available as an option.
• The drivetrain is getting upgraded to a six-speed automatic with a Super Electronically Controlled Transmission. Hill-start Assist Control has been added as a standard feature, and VDIM will be available as an option.
• Overall vehicle length has been shortened increased 1.6″ (29mm) to 187.8″ (4,770mm).
• Overall vehicle width has been increased to 74.2″ (1,885mm), 1.6″ (41mm).
• The height has been bumped up significantly, up to 67.7″ (1,720mm) from 66.1″ (1,679mm).
• The wheelbase has been extended 1 “(29mm) to 107.9″ (2,740mm).
• Curb Weight has increased a whopping 640lbs to 4,510lbs.
• 18″ P235/60R18 wheels are now standard. 19″ P235/55R19 wheels are optional.

The biggest thing to notice is the increased height of the RX and the big weight bump, which are no doubt related. The sports-tuned suspension is interesting as well, but there’s still a lack of details to what that means exactly.

More shortly, next up is a full list of new and deleted features/options.

Update: This information is for the Canadian version of the RX, though it’s easily assumed that the new US RX will share most, if not all, of these features.

Been a while since I featured an image from Flickr, and this photo of the Lexus LF-A by j.hietter is a perfect way to get back on track:

The colors are great in this picture, the LF-A just seems to photograph so well, from any angle.