The secret about Lexus' upcoming convertible hardtop IS variants has been out for some time now, with spy photos and registered names tipping the company's hand. The latest news of the Japanese carmaker's plans for its entry-level luxury sedan indicate the high-powered IS-F will not be included in the drop-top debut. The naming convention will also simply tack 'C' onto the model name, as in the IS 250C to be shown at the Paris Motor Show.
Given the success of the IS, Lexus is likely to add even more variants down the road, including a sporty new hatchback. Until then, however, the coupe-cabriolet will carry the new-model mantle. As the preview renderings below show, the car's folding hardtop lines will remain very close to the standard sedan's, but once the top is down, the car's open top and two-door design give it a very different character.
The all-electric operation of the convertible top will ensure luxury-focused Lexus owners will have the automatic functionality they've come to expect from the brand. Speculation about the engines that will power the IS 250C and IS 350C, as they will officially be called, includes the petrol V6 as the most likely candidate, reports AutoTelegraaf. Due for debut next month at the Paris Motor Show, the IS coupe-cabriolet will see sales in the U.S. and Europe shortly afterward, followed by the rest of the world. Specifications and equipment are expected to mirror the sedan’s.
Although Lexus is yet to confirm the development of a hatch, there were previous reports claiming a new entry-level model priced below $30,000 was in the works. This car is unlikely to be launched in North America but in Europe the car could go up against strong sellers like the BMW 1-series and Audi A3.
For details and pricing on the 2009 Lexus IS facelift, read our coverage here.
Reader Comments
Mon Jun 9 2008 2:04 PM
james says
they couldn't have changed the looks just a little?
Tue Jun 10 2008 12:23 AM
bambam says
yeah true, only in Europe, no change to the front?
the headlights or bonnets? it still looks good anyways
but by the time it's out, it could be old.
Wed Jun 11 2008 10:47 PM
lexlife says
Can't wait to place my order. L/L
Mon Jun 16 2008 10:00 AM
lfann says
The previous IS was produced from 1998 to 2005. So I guess this generation could be for 2006 to 2013? May be when Lexus launches these coupe cabrio and hatch in 2009, they will facelift the entire IS range at the same time, making some changes to the front and rear.
Wed Aug 27 2008 5:25 PM
NoNameDenton says
I still prefer the 3 series, too bad we will not get a diesel convertible like the Europeans.
Wed Aug 27 2008 6:44 PM
HECTOR says
Exclusively for all the metrosexuals out there.
Wed Aug 27 2008 7:20 PM
NoNameDenton says
Hector, you make generalizations, it is a habit you should shake off.
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