IS250C

LEXUS finally lifts the lid on its biggest selling model, the IS250 sedan, to produce its first four-seat convertible since the 2001 SC430, which it effectively replaces in terms of sale from August 2009.

For now, the IS250C, comes in three model grades (Prestige, Sports and Sports Luxury), all powered by the sedan’s cutting-edge 153kW/252Nm 2.5-litre petrol V6 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The mid-size Lexus coupe-convertible oozes with features and technology for considerably less than folding hardtop rivals like BMW’s 3 Series Convertible, with a starting price of $79,900.

Lexus has fully reengineered the four-door IS to transform it into a topless two-door and the result is a four-door luxury convertible with first-class dynamics and ride-quality, but the considerable weight gain means it’s not as fleet as the sedan.