What transmission does the Lexus LFA use?
3 Answers
Lexus LFA uses a 6-speed sequential transmission. The full name of the sequential transmission is sequential manual transmission, which differs from ordinary manual transmissions only in the operation method. Upshifting and downshifting can be completed by simply pushing or pulling the gear lever forward or backward. Its characteristics are: 1. Faster shifting speed; 2. Reduced probability of shifting errors. Taking the 2012 Lexus LFA standard model as an example, it is a sports car under the Lexus F brand, with body dimensions of: length 4505mm, width 1895mm, height 1220mm, and a wheelbase of 2605mm.
The Lexus LFA used a rather unique single-clutch automated sequential transmission, which was quite distinctive in the supercar world at the time. Developed jointly by Aisin and Yamaha, this gearbox boasted lightning-fast shifts, with the official claim being just 0.2 seconds per shift. It paired flawlessly with the high-revving V10 engine, especially delivering an exhilarating experience on the track. The driving feel struck a perfect balance—less tiring than a traditional manual yet offering more mechanical engagement than a conventional automatic. The paddle shifters behind the steering wheel delivered satisfyingly crisp and rhythmic operation. While many modern supercars have shifted to dual-clutch transmissions, the LFA's choice of a single-clutch unit was largely for weight reduction and sound tuning—the combination of the engine's roar and the gearbox's metallic clinks created an absolutely unforgettable experience.
Those who have driven the LFA often praise its highly distinctive transmission. Instead of using a dual-clutch or conventional automatic, the car features an automated sequential gearbox that feels like a hybrid between manual and automatic. You can shift gears without pressing the clutch—just pull the steering wheel paddles—but it retains the mechanical feedback akin to a manual transmission. The most remarkable aspect is how the transmission syncs with the engine's roar: each gearshift produces a pronounced mechanical engagement sound, perfectly complementing the 9,000 rpm V10 scream for an auditory feast. On the road, the rev control is exceptionally precise, with nearly no power interruption during corner exits. While it may feel slightly more jerky than modern transmissions in daily driving, this rawness is precisely what defines the LFA's core mechanical charm.
