In an age where most automakers are switching to downsized turbo engines and fully electric powertrains, brands like Toyota and Lexus are keeping the internal combustion engine (ICE) alive and well.

Sure, both brands offer electrified cars like hybrids (HEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), but that doesn't mean they have stopped making performance cars. From the likes of the Toyota GR Yaris, Toyota GR Corolla, Lexus IS 500, and the Lexus RC F, it's proof that ICE still has a place in the automotive world.

Now, Lexus is busy testing its (supposed) successor for the V10-powered LFA. A prototype version of the aforementioned replacement to the LFA was spotted being driven around the Nurburgring. The vehicle is covered in a camo livery to hide its design. However, its overall shape is not too far from the looks of the GR GT3 Concept Toyota revealed around two years ago.

Apparently, the GR GT3 Concept will be a dedicated Toyota racecar while the Lexus version will be a road-going vehicle. With its long hood and short deck design, along with a massive wing at the back, the vehicle will supposedly be called the Lexus LFR based on rumors and hearsay. But what really caught our attention was the sound of the vehicle's engine.

Based on a YouTube video uploaded by CarSpyMedia, the prototype Lexus was heard going around the track with a V8 burble. There are no specifications yet about the engine although the LFR could most likely have a newly-developed V8 that benefits from a pair of turbochargers as well as electrification. While it may not be as exciting as the ear-splitting sound of the LFA's 4.8L V10, the V8 sound of the prototype Lexus is still music to our ears.

There is no exact timeline yet as to when the supposed LFR will make its official reveal. But given that the prototype vehicle that was recently spotted looks to be a thinly-veiled production car, perhaps we're mere months away from its debut.

While the LFR may look like a successor to the much revered Lexus LFA, we also won't be surprised if it will also serve as a successor to the Lexus RC F which has been on sale since 2014 and is due for a full model change or a replacement.