The Lexus LF-A is a flagship supercoupe for Toyota. Last fall, on the eve of the 2005 Tokyo auto show, Toyota assembled a large, international group of auto journalists in the paddock of its newly reopened Fuji Speedway. Idle chit-chat suddenly ceased as the damp air filled with the distinct shriek of a Formula 1- derived engine. All eyes turned to the track's straight in time to see the Lexus LF-A concept from the 2005 Detroit show go by in a blur. Toyota's message was obvious: the LF-A is a runner, a fact underscored by its repeated presence (above) in Nrburgring testing. The LF-A is meant to showcase Toyota's F1 racing technology, so it will get a V-8 engine--not the much-rumored V-10--making an estimated 500 hp. Expect a $100,000 price and performance unlike that of any Toyota that's come before. Look for a final version to be unveiled on a show stand in 2008.