2009 LEXUS IS C 350 6AT (306 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Lexus introduced the open-top version of the IS range at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. Despite the bad timing due to the world financial crisis, it managed to survive until its replacement arrived in 2014.

The Japanese carmaker tried to take a slice of the European premium car market. Thus, Lexus tried to hit the competition in the convertible segment with a retractable hard-top vehicle, which neither of its competitors had. And thus, the IS C was born. Unfortunately for Toyota’s premium brand, it was bad timing.

Lexus’ designers made a similar front fascia for the convertible version of the four-door IS, following the new-edge design language with sharp, rounded lines and curved panels. Between the narrowed headlights, the carmaker installed a waterfall-style chromed grille that sported the L-badge in the middle. From its profile, any resemblance between the convertible and the sedan stopped. The retractable hard-top could have been open or closed in just 20 seconds, which was remarkable for a four-seat vehicle. There were no fewer than 15 motors and 35 sensors involved in that movement.

The carmaker found a way to squeeze four seats inside the cockpit, even though those placed behind were mostly useless. Due to the retractable roof, the carmaker had to move the back seats forward, leading to minimal legroom for the rear passengers. The dashboard sported the same design as its four-door sibling. Lexus tried to make a stand in the segment and provided the IS C with a leather-wrapped interior. Moreover, it added more features as standard.

Under the hood, Lexus installed a choice of two engines, both with six cylinders. They did provide similar power as its main competitors, but there were only two, which didn’t help Lexus’ sales department.