The new and exotic looking Lexus IS 250C convertible is by far more attractive than the only current convertible model of Toyota luxury division, the Lexus SC 430. Shown at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, the IS 250C convertible offers all the amenities and features buyers have come to expect from a luxury convertible, power-folding hard top, 6 speed automatic transmission. The only downturn is an underwhelming, gasoline V6 engine.
The improved designed Lexus IS 250 and IS 350 has received wide acclamation, as a luxury sport sedan, leaning more towards the luxury end of the spectrum than other manufacturers are offering, like a BMW 3 Series or Audi A4. Irrespective of the fact that it has a bit hard interior, the car still remains an amazing driving experience.
Talking about the style of this car, the looks of the 2010 IS 250 resembles a lot to that of the SC 430. This is definitely a good marketing point. For highly hard-core enthusiasts, a more IS-F influence could have been a great benefit. However, the IS 250C is, over all, an attractive car delivering open sports car philosophy than other competing luxury car marquees.
According to claims made by Lexus, the folding hard convertible top can be put away within 20 seconds in the IS 250C trunk, leaving behind a crisp and clean main body line with just minimally invasive breaks present, as far as the bodywork is concerned. The boat-tail rear spoiler is absent in the Lexus IS 250 and IS 350, and is appealing, since it becomes a part of the main body.
True sports car fans have never taken a liking to the SC 430, which replaced the SC 400. It is too feminine, they say. The 2010 Lexus IS 250C is a big step in the right direction for Lexus convertible models, though we would still prefer more of the sharp lines from the sedan and “F” models.
Performance In case of the Paris 2008 debut for the IS 250C, the main objective was to show off the styling of the Lexus. In the absence of power to complement many of the Germans, will it actually sell? There is a possibility that Lexus is considering the Ford example of selling V6 Mustangs in a larger quantity, as compared to the high power V8 designs.
The fact is that in case of an output of 208 Horsepower, a comparison between the Lexus and numerous four-cylinder engines in the market can be conducted. The question remains that how can Lexus explain this strategy, and there is a possibility of Lexus having something yet to reveal.
To ensure, that IS 250C uses its full horsepower potential, it is equipped with a Tiptronic-style 6 speed automatic, which will provide the gear ratios. It would not make much sense if the Lexus goes head to head with the likes of Infiniti G37, BMW 3 Series or Audi A4 convertible buyers, as far as marketing strategy is concerned.
It can be a good start from Lexus and a definite bold step up from the lacklustre SC 430. Those who do pick up an IS 250C, when available worldwide next spring, will likely wish for more.
Detailed information about the Lexus IS 250c is availiable. Why not book a test drive now!